The Internet's gatekeeper may cash in on role
Article Abstract:
Network Solutions, which registers Internet and Web addresses, considers making an IPO, drawing criticism from those who believe the company is taking unfair advantage of its position. Network Solutions earned a five-year contract from the National Science Foundation (NSF), after an increase in the number of domain names registered made it difficult for NSF to administer them. In Sep 1995, with the permission of the NSF, Network Solutions began imposing a $50 annual fee on those who wished to retain the rights to registered domain names. The company also charges $100 for new names. With requests for domain names increasing to 50,000 a month in Sep 1996, Network Solutions could earn as much as $40 million annually, if all new registrants and domain holders pay the fees. UUNet Technologies competed for the NSF contract and claims that the entire registration system could be managed for $40,000 a year. Others say domain names should be public property because it can be argued that the government created them.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1996
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Uunet and MFS plan to merge as Internet meets fiber optics; $2 billion deal may spur further consolidation
Article Abstract:
MFS Communications plans to acquire Internet service provider Uunet Technologies in a deal analysts say illustrates the emergence of the Internet as a medium for business communications. MFS is the largest provider of fiber optic network services and the only company that can offer a continuous link, which speeds data transmission significantly. The acquisition means Uunet will be able to use MFS' fiber optic lines and stop the expensive practice of leasing high-speed lines from telephone companies. Together, the companies could carry the voice, Internet and video traffic of their 60,000 customers in the US and Europe at speeds well above those achieved with standard copper wiring. Microsoft, which owns 13% of Uunet, will have a 4% stake in the merged company and will use its services to reach the consumer market. The $2 billion deal calls for the exchange of one share of Uunet stock for 1.777776 shares of MFS stock.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1996
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