Fluidata to Provide O2 UK with New Core Network for WiFi and Extra Capacity

Business ISP Fluidata has today signed a new “multi-million pound contract” with O2 UK that will supply the mobile operator with a new core network and enough “last mile” data connectivity and capacity to help support the expansion of its wireless internet (wifi) hotspots across the country.

The deal is said to cover “two major projects” that will improve the resilience of the O2 Wifi service by doubling its datacentre capacity through securing space in Fluidata’s new datacentre facility in Manchester. Fluidata’s Service Exchange Platform (SEP) will also help provide vital “last mile connectivity” for O2’s hotspots.

Piers Daniell, Fluidata MD, said:

“Geographic diversity and resilience is critical to a network’s future. O2 is using state-of-the-art technology and failover services to make sure it gives customers the best possible service.

Our Service Exchange Platform means that ISPs can offer a service to consumers in areas previously beyond their reach. It’s good news for businesses and consumers, as they have a wider choice of networks. O2 Wifi is deploying a uniform and free service for all its consumers so it needs to be able to deploy hotspots wherever customers demand them.”

The SEP in particular makes it easier for over 50 ISPs to reach premises through a specially aggregated open access wholesale network, which will obviously be of benefit to O2’s future expansion as it also covers 16 of the major carriers.