FNet to Work With GTE on Quick Internet Access

FNet Corp., an Internet subsidiary of Franklin Telecom in Westlake Village, has announced that it will work with GTE to provide ADSL service in Southern California.

FNet’s initial area of service will include most of Southern California south of Santa Barbara.

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line allows subscribers to access the Internet up to 25 times faster than using conventional modems, FNet officials said. The technology also allows simultaneous transmission of voice and data on an existing phone line, they said.

ADSL features what is known as “always on technology,” which means it provides Internet access with no dialing, no waiting, no busy signals and no need for a separate data line.

“FNet FastLink goes a long way toward putting small businesses on a more equal footing with their larger competitors by providing them service which was, up until now, only affordable by much larger companies,” said Frank Peters, Franklin chairman and CEO. “Since the outset, FNet has focused on corporate and professional Internet usage, so getting in on the very ground floor of a service with this potential is extremely satisfying.”

During the FastLink pilot program, customers may visit www.franklin.net to pre-qualify their location for service.