In a bid to make it even easier for its customers to move to IP and start experiencing the advantages it provides, Verizon Business recently announced new enhancements to its Private IP-Layer 2 service.

With these enhancements, businesses using traditional data services such as frame relay and ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) can get the benefits of the company's Private IP-Layer 3 service.

According to the company, Layer 3 is the network level where more advanced IP-based technology like MPLS can transfer information between different devices and various networks.

"We've reached a tipping point where IP provides a clear competitive advantage for globally extended enterprises that need to communicate immediately and securely with employees, customers, suppliers and partners," said Tom Roche, vice president, networking solutions for Verizon (News - Alert).

"Companies today are looking to tune up their networks to work harder, and Private IP-Layer 2 can extend the capabilities and return on investment of an existing data infrastructure."

Other benefits of the newly announced enhancement include higher bandwidth, with speeds up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) as well as Layer 3 connectivity via a shared port, and new access options, including Ethernet with traffic prioritization, among other new capabilities.

With the new extended reach, U.S.-based customers can extend Private IP-Layer 2 to their global locations and with a shared port for private IP-Layer 2 customers to make use of the advanced features of a Layer 3 MPLS network, it's possible to receive WAN analysis performance reporting of their network – allowing for better network performance and decision making.

 

Access to the Private IP-Layer 3 features also means customers can run next-gen apps like VoIP, video conferencing, UC and others.

Bryan van Dussen, director of business markets research with In-Stat (News - Alert), said: "By providing a flexible, MPLS-based layer 2 networking solution, Verizon Business continues to show leadership in next-gen network solutions. Its latest offer helps ease transition to IP for some frame relay and ATM customers who have yet to make the leap. Extensive global reach, advanced application gateways, QoS and compelling economics make this a strong value proposition for legacy network customers."