News Details

Windstream Achieves Gold and Master Managed Services Certifications From Cisco

September 27, 2012

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Sept. 27, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Windstream (Nasdaq:WIN), a leading provider of advanced network communications, announced today that it has achieved Cisco®Gold Certification and Master Managed Services Certification.

"The most important part of being recognized as a Cisco Gold Certified Partner, is it shows that we truly put the customer first," said Don Perkins, Windstream vice president of Business Marketing. "From technology development to service delivery, our partnership with Cisco enables us to provide customers with an enduring level of support for their data systems and networking solutions."

To earn Gold Certification, Windstream had to meet rigorous standards set forth by Cisco in networking competency, service, support, and customer satisfaction. Cisco Gold Certification provides Windstream with access to comprehensive sales, technical, and lifecycle services training and support available from Cisco.

"We are committed to providing tools, training, and programs to help drive partner growth, differentiation, and profitability," said Edison Peres, senior vice president of worldwide channels for Cisco. "With specializations in unified communications, routing and switching, security, and wireless LAN, Windstream has made an investment in developing the capability to deliver the integrated and customized technology solutions that today's customers demand."

Master Managed Services Certification recognizes Windstream's investment in the ITIL® processes, practices and tools necessary to provide high-quality managed services. As a Cisco Master Managed Services Certified Partner, Windstream has demonstrated the ability to deliver sophisticated solutions, met stringent requirements that reflect a depth of capabilities, and undergone an independent audit by an objective third-party auditor. Windstream was also required to offer at least two managed services using the resources and procedures necessary to deploy, manage and support Cisco solutions.

Windstream currently offers businesses a full suite of Cisco's data products—including routers, switches, wireless access devices, and security technologies. It delivers network solutions to customers that provide secure, unconstrained connectivity between employees and their information.

For more information about Windstream's data, voice, network, and cloud solutions, visit windstreambusiness.com.

About Windstream

Windstream Corp. (Nasdaq:WIN) is a leading provider of advanced network communications, including cloud computing and managed services, to businesses nationwide. The company also offers broadband, phone and digital TV services to consumers primarily in rural areas. Windstream has more than $6 billion in annual revenues and is listed on the S&P 500 index. For more information, visit www.windstream.com.

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CONTACT: Windstream Contact:

         Alice Hartnett

         704-887-0327

         [email protected]

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Windstream Corporation

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