SES, a global satellite operator, announced a satellite broadband deal with Facebook to provide high-speed broadband connectivity services to Sub-Saharan Africa. This agreement will support Facebook’s Express Wi-Fi programme that is part of their Internet.org initiative to connect the world.
Facebook, the world’s largest social media network, will deliver high speed broadband connectivity using three SES satellites, ASTRA 2G, ASTRA 3B and ASTRA 4A. In addition, SES is providing Facebook with customised SES Enterprise broadband services.
SES designed a highly tailored service utilising its satellite, data centre and implementation services with integrated features such as security, protocol enhancement, and hosting. The solution includes Gilat Satellite Networks’ X-Architecture platform that will enable Facebook’s local African partners to deliver internet services to under connected and unconnected communities using Facebook’s Express Wi-Fi access product.
X-Architecture is a distributed VSAT ground segment architecture based on Software Defined Networking, addressing current and future needs with one platform that supports both fixed and mobility SATCOM applications. Service expansion can be achieved to markets such as broadband consumer, enterprise, cellular and mobility.
X-Architecture allows business to grow with a network specifically designed to address tomorrow’s opportunities. With X-Architecture, players can provide broader coverage and increase satellite bandwidth capacity using traditional wide-beam satellites or High Throughput Satellites in any frequency band, C, Ku and Ka.
X-Architecture enables multiple managed-service business models for Virtual Network Operators. The service is easily scalable with minimal equipment for as many VNOs as required. The architecture has been designed with utmost flexibility and unprecedented density thus saving rack space and power
X-Architecture features a distributed, cloud-based design, which separates data centre functions from baseband elements. The network is easily controlled by a global, unified, and centralized network management system, TotalNMS. SkyEdge II-c TotalNMS enables full configuration, control and monitoring of all hub elements and remote terminals, regardless of their physical location.
“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with SES and Facebook on this worthy initiative to bridge the digital divide,” said Ron Levin, Director Strategic Accounts at Gilat. “The turn-key solution provided to Facebook is based on expanding SES base with Gilat’s most advanced X-Architecture for SkyEdge II-c platform to deliver a scalable and optimised satellite-enabled broadband solution in Africa.”
“SES has the solutions and satellites that can satisfy Facebook’s demand to enable and provide broadband connectivity for Express Wi-Fi,” said Ferdinand Kayser, Chief Commercial Officer of SES. “Our new data network, SES Plus, highlights the strengths of SES as a network operator. We pride ourselves on working with our customers to design and deliver customised and differentiated products that enable them to excel in their markets. An agreement such as this with Facebook, where we designed a whole new customisable, flexible and scalable solution, is another step SES has taken to satisfy the fast expanding broadband connectivity market in Africa.”
SES has a fleet of more than 50 geostationary satellites. The company provides satellite communications services to broadcasters, content and internet service providers, mobile and fixed network operators and business and governmental organisations worldwide. SES holds a participation in O3b Networks, a next generation satellite network combining the reach of satellite with the speed of fibre.
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