Covad Launches Nationwide Network Access

Covad Communications launched a nationwide always-on service aimed at bringing high-speed computer connections to small businesses, off-site workers and companies with branch offices. Covad’s new service, TeleSpeed Remote, is priced between $135 and $405 a month. The Santa Clara, Calif.-based company said its high-speed connections eliminate the need for dial-up access and the accompanying per-minute connection charges. Covad, a specialist in high-speed digital subscriber line (DSL) service, has agreements with AT&T; and Qwest Communications to use their lines to expand Covad’s reach. The service is available in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento and five other cities nationwide and will expand into 22 cities by the end of the year. In Los Angeles, Covad said its network can serve nearly 3 million homes and small businesses.