Verizon upgrades mobile satellite services for private IP customers

PHILADELPHIA — Claiming its spot as the No. 1 communications provider to the federal government, Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) is making a larger investment and commitment to the public safety market here at APCO International Annual Conference and Expo.
While it’s difficult to determine how much of Verizon’s enterprise business is specific to public safety, the firm has doubled down on the space in terms of investment and workforce, Dominic DeMark, VP of public safety strategy in enterprise and government markets at Verizon, told RCR Wireless News.
With one year under his belt in this position, created specifically for this market, DeMark said company executives from the top down are making a concerted effort to expand the operator’s reach in public safety.
Over the past year, Verizon has made some changes to its network to address some specific needs in this space, including prioritized network access, site sharing and accelerated deployment of network enhancements and other services.
Here at APCO, Verizon also showcased the mobile satellite solutions that it’s adding to its private IP service suite. The goal is to provide private IP customers with service when major network interruptions occur, such as in natural disasters and other major events that can put their network offline.
The operator aims to deploy one of its satellite-equipped trailers to an enterprise customer in need within 36 hours. It has trailers stationed around the country to provide backup service promptly.
“With Verizon’s 20-plus years of offering satellite services to business and government customers, we are well equipped to provide the flexibility and coordination satellite projects require,” said Nicola Morris, VP of marketing and strategy for Verizon Business. “Our Mobile Satellite Solutions offer the powerful combination of satellite technology and Verizon’s private IP network.”