The Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) in Kiltimagh, Co Mayo, is now live after e|net connected the network via wireless backhaul with support from major local employers like CMS Peripherals, a major IT storage and consumer electronics distribution firm.
Up until now, the lack of fibre backhaul connectivity from the Kiltimagh MAN meant it struggled to attract service providers.
While E-net has been instrumental in bringing competitive fibre backhaul solutions to the vast majority of Phase 1 MAN towns, a wireless solution was needed in Kiltimagh to connect it to the wider national and global network.
Making a connection
As a result, Westnet, a local internet service provider, in conjunction with BT, created an innovative solution to ensure that wireless backhaul is in place from Kiltimagh to Ballina, where it can connect to the national fibre backhaul network.
“I think that when it comes to technology, it’s fair to say that people can overestimate the short-term value and underestimate the long-term value,” said e|net’s CEO Conall Henry.
“The same can be said for the MANs. E-net’s experience is that, over time, the existence of a MAN has a vital and major impact on the range, quality and value of communications solutions for businesses and homes. Having activated the MAN in Kiltimagh, we look forward to delivering the same exciting results to the local businesses in the area.
“I also think the activation of this MAN signals E-net’s intent to do everything in our power to address the backhaul challenges faced in some MAN towns.”
Phases
The Kiltimagh MAN was one of two Phase 1 MANs built in Mayo, with the other being Ballina. Additionally, there are three Phase 2 MANs in Mayo – Claremorris, Ballinrobe and Knock Airport. All of the Mayo MANs have been partly funded by the Mayo County Council.
“This is a big day for Kiltimagh,” said Joe Kelly, CEO of IRD Kiltimagh. “Not only has Westnet, a local provider, played a pivotal role in the provision of the innovative technological solution but we have seen great support from all the interested parties, particularly the county council, e|net, BT and CMS.
“We know that the MANs were built to reduce the digital divide and today, with CMS Peripheral’s connection, it feels like that goal has been achieved,” Kelly said.
By John Kennedy
Photo: Internet service provider Westnet, in conjunction with BT, created an innovative solution to ensure that wireless backhaul is in place from Kiltimagh to Ballina, where it can connect to the national fibre backhaul network.
