"KDD METRORING ^SM" is an optical fiber network originating and terminating in the KDD building which will link in a loop KDD's existing optical fiber cables, and those laid in through public facilities and water pipes. Branch lines extended from the network into the customer buildings will be connected to LAN's and WAN's in these buildings. This method allows a subscriber access to KDD's network that can be set up with a shorter span of time for far less cost than that of constructing a radial-shape network connecting customer buildings individually to the communications service provider, or by creating connections by excavating roads to get the network installed. In addition, the ring configuration adopted in the network will assure a highly reliable subscriber access network equipped with a self-healing function which enables non interrupted automatic restoration in the case of failure.

The first step of completion of "KDD METRORING ^SM" is scheduled for March 2000. The network, once constructed, will be a loop optical fiber network spanning a total length of 6 km in the Ote-machi and Marunouchi districts of Tokyo where there is much demand for large capacity communication in a concentrated region. In addition to private leased circuit services, NEWEB (Internet), FR and CR, video transmission, and telephone services will also be provided. KDD will put "KDD METRORING ^SM" under a constant review process to determine whether expected demands will justify its extension to other districts or not.

"KDD METRORING ^SM" will provide connections to overseas business sites including New York and London, via the domestic backbone networks such as the JIH (Japan Information Highway) and large capacity optical fiber cables along the highways as well as the optical fiber submarine cables such as the TPC-5.

KDD will provide a variety of services for less expensive costs by improving access circuits such as the "high-speed access circuit service" using the KDD WinStar's FWA wireless service.