OneAccess Enables Neotel to Achieve First-To-Market MEF 2.0 Certification in Africa

Paris, November 17, 2015:  OneAccess Networks, a global provider of multi-service network access solutions, has enabled converged communications provider, Neotel, to become the first service provider in Africa to receive Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) Carrier Ethernet 2.0 Certification.

The certification from MEF, an international standardization body which aims to accelerate the worldwide adoption of carrier-class Ethernet networks and services, provides Neotel with independent validation of its Ethernet service capability, providing a clear point of differentiation for the operator in the African communications market for enterprise connectivity.

Neotel has worked with OneAccess in collaboration with their local partner Ucomms to develop the ability to offer customers voice, data, internet and cloud services over a single fiber connection. The implementation of OneAccess’ all-in-one-box solution, comprising the OneAccess 1645 multi-service router, together with network service verification and network monitoring tools, has enabled Neotel to provide a flexible mix of Carrier Ethernet delivery, high speed broadband access and IPVPN routing, all tailored to the individual needs of its business customers. The OneAccess 1645 router is already MEF 2.0 certified for all services which, together with the agility of Neotel’s own organization, greatly assisted the operator’s efforts to obtain MEF certification and achieve its first-to-market status.

“OneAccess and Ucomms have enjoyed a close and collaborative relationship with Neotel for many years; it is only through our combined efforts that it has been possible for Neotel to reach this milestone.” comments Bertrand Meis, CEO of OneAccess Networks. “It’s a fantastic achievement which speaks volumes about Neotel’s commitment to its enterprise customers and the wider communications marketplace in Africa.”

Commenting on the certification, Dr Angus Hay, GM ISP of Neotel adds: “OneAccess delivered the MEF certification on a plate for us, which was incredibly helpful and enabled us to achieve first-to-market status in Africa.  As Neotel continues to introduce game-changing technologies, certifications like MEF 2.0 are vital if we are to maintain the confidence of our customers. Today’s news is a clear validation of the maturity of our Ethernet services capability, and reflects our determination to remain at the forefront of the market by delivering best in class standards, quality, features and performance.”

The all-in-one-box implementation was deployed at the most competitive TCO (total cost of ownership) level available in the market; a factor that will contribute significantly to Neotel’s ongoing drive to reduce both CAPEX and OPEX.

The MEF Certification Program enables service providers to certify that their Ethernet services comply with the relevant MEF specifications. The program has made a significant contribution to the successful deployment of Carrier Ethernet, with more than 200 certified service products deployed by more than 70 service providers worldwide.