New Verizon Unit Offers Wares For ITNew Verizon Unit Offers Wares For IT

Verizon Communications launched Monday a new Verizon Business unit that provides advanced communications and IT solutions to customers in 75 countries.

Among other things, the new product unit features include the use of Verizon Wireless as backup for data networks.

"Verizon Business customers simply use a Verizon Wireless Broadband/Access/National Access PC card that slides directly into most laptops," the Verizon Communications announcement said. "Through the Verizon Business Enterprise Mobility platform (customers) are assured they will receive end-to-end security protection for corporate data."

Verizon Business combines assets from Verizon Communications' Enterprise Solutions Group and MCI, which was recently acquired for $8.5 billion. Most of the employees in the new unit as well as most of the products are from MCI.

Verizon is erasing the MCI brand while it elevates its Verizon Wireless connection. Verizon Communications is the majority owner of Verizon Wireless and shares that ownership with Vodafone.

Verizon said the new wireless backup offering will be based on its high-speed EV-DO technology, which is available at most major urban areas in the U.S. The company added that it plans to add wireless backup in global locations later.

"This new wireless capability allows company workers to connect to corporate systems -- without using a phone jack, modem or designated hotspot with strengthened security not found in other wireless high-speed services," Verizon said.

Verizon Business said its portfolio would range from managed services and data and IP networking solutions to advanced voice applications including VoIP offerings. In addition, the offerings will cover customer premises equipment (CPE) and IT services.