LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Windstream (NASDAQ: WIN), a leading provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions, today announced that it has deployed fixed wireless technology to deliver broadband speeds up to 100 megabits per second (Mbps) to customers in western Poteau.

About 900 locations in Poteau are covered by this first phase of the project. When the project is completed later this year, about 8,800 locations in the Poteau area will qualify for fixed wireless broadband.

Windstream is using fixed wireless technology to help meet its obligations under the FCC’s Connect America Fund initiative, which is designed to support network upgrades in rural areas that would otherwise not be economically feasible.

“Fixed wireless technology is an alternative to traditional cabled networks that enables Windstream to deploy broadband service more quickly and cost effectively in some rural areas,” said Aaron Morris, director of Windstream Operations in Oklahoma. “I’m delighted that we have been able to bring this innovative technology to bear in the Poteau area. We know customers want faster speed, and we are committed to delivering it.”

Fixed wireless is not a mobile service. Pole-mounted antennas transmit the broadband signal to receivers at each eligible customer’s home or business. The performance of the fixed wireless connection is comparable to wired solutions.

To inquire about the availability of fixed wireless service, as well as Windstream’s traditional Kinetic Internet service, residential customers may call (866) 819-1225, and small and medium-sized businesses may call (877) 442-9462.

About Windstream

Windstream Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: WIN), a FORTUNE 500 company, is a leading provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions. Windstream provides data networking, core transport, security, unified communications and managed services to mid-market, enterprise and wholesale customers across the U.S. The company also offers broadband, entertainment and security services for consumers and small and medium-sized businesses primarily in rural areas in 18 states. Services are delivered over multiple network platforms including a nationwide IP network, our proprietary cloud core architecture and on a local and long-haul fiber network spanning approximately 150,000 miles. Additional information is available at windstream.com or windstreamenterprise.com . Please visit our newsroom at news.windstream.com or follow us on Twitter at @Windstream or @WindstreamBiz .

Windstream Contact: Scott Morris, 501-748-5342 scott.l.morris@windstream.com