Bay Networks Inc has launched a first-of-its-kind outsourcing program for enterprise networks, whereby the company undertakes to handle all aspects of network operation and management for a fixed monthly fee. The service, christened the One-Price Program, is designed to remove all network headaches from companies that want instead to concentrate on their core businesses. Bay says that for users of the program it will take over all aspects of network design, installation, and administration – including equipment supply – and guarantee 99.8% uptime, with rebates if it falls short of this figure. For internal billing purposes, per port costs will be tracked, says the company. To reassure users that their networks do not become outdated, Bay also promises ongoing design reviews, provide automatic equipment upgrades, and provide migration of the network to newer technologies. Pricing for the One-Price Program will be finalized by the end of the month, according to a spokeswoman. For this reason, the company is unable to say when it believes this program will be more cost-effective than for users to own and run their own infrastructure. However, it is already apparent that it will only be suitable for very large users – as part of the deal, a Bay engineer is located on-site to manage the network (with the option for further engineers if required) and 7×24 technical support is provided by Bay.
