Telkom has enhanced its asymmetrical digital subscriber line (ADSL) offering by introducing a free modem bundle today. This is expected to enable more South Africans to enjoy the benefits of high-speed Internet access at more affordable installation rates.
The enhancement to Telkom`s market-endorsed ADSL offering enables a customer to get connected to broadband Internet access for R404 on a 24-month contract. The new contract package includes a free modem and the opportunity for customers to choose an ISP of their choice as this portion is charged separately. TelkomInternet offers ISP products Prolog and Prolog Plus.
The new package comprises upfront installation at R404 - VAT inclusive - which is payable on the first bill. Customers can then choose a free ADSL modem of their choice, which, according to current market prices, translates into a saving of about R1 500.
Customers will be expected to sign a 24-month contract. The monthly rental for ADSL residential customers is R680, VAT inclusive, and R800, VAT inclusive, for business customers. Penalties apply for early contract cancellations.
The customers, who buy their modem from any other outlets, can still order the ADSL service at standard published rates.
Telkom`s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Nombulelo Moholi, said: "Telkom has taken another step to reduce the entry cost to broadband Internet access for all South Africans.
"Research has shown that current ADSL customers surf 70% to 80% more compared with when they were using a dial-up connection. Telkom took the trend to heart and decided to advance the customer`s experience of the Internet."
Telkom launched ADSL in 2002. ADSL is an always-available, flat-rated access service to the Internet. ADSL uses a modem technology that turns an ordinary telephone line into a multi-tasking tool.
Customers can order the service by calling the business call centre on 10217, or by visiting a Telkom Customer Service Branch.
Moholi said offering customers a package with a 24-month contract and a free modem at the same price as the standard monthly ADSL product would attract many who saw the upfront investment in a modem as a barrier to entry.
"Telkom is advancing its efforts to offer customers holistic solutions for both voice and data," Moholi concluded.
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