Israel's Ministry of Communications, 012 Smile.Communications, Intel and Alvarion Join in Launching WiMAX Initiative for Sderot, a City in the Wes...(d to supply Internet links to publicinst...)

WiMAX technology enables the use of wireless broadband links for long distances (compared to WiFi), and this unique initiative in Sderot and the Western Negev is being conducted as part of an experimental extension of WiMAX services. Utilizing advanced solutions from Alvarion and Intel, dozens of kindergartens and the local primary school in Sderot that were forced to move to alternative secure locations have been connected to the Internet network and telephone services of 012 Smile. A mobile WiMAX-based wireless area has also been established to enable portable mobile access in the region. Intel donated dozens of laptop computers as part of this initiative.

Commenting on the initiative, Ariel Atias, Minister of Communications stated, "The State of Israel must be committed to minimizing educational and technological gaps, bringing the periphery closer to the center and devoting efforts to improving the quality of life of citizens in Sderot and the Western Negev. The possibility of utilizing free access to WiMAX technology is one means of achieving these goals."

Eli Moyal, Mayor of Sderot stated, "I congratulate this initiative to connect kindergartens in Sderot using WiMAX wireless Internet technology, thus bringing Sderot to the forefront of this innovative technology, unparalleled throughout Israel. We wish for the success of this project and hope that it will expand to other centers in the region in the near future so that many more people will benefit from broadband wireless Internet connections."

Stella Hendler, CEO of 012 Golden Lines remarked, "The Ministry of Communication's expansion of the license for a technology experiment using WiMAX technology has led to the establishment of a joint communi
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