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BT to provide core network for PSN programme
The telecoms giant has signed an agreement with the Cabinet Office to support the Public Sector Network initiative.
The PSN is described as a "network of networks" that can be used by government departments, educational institutions, local authorities and other public bodies to deliver broadband and other telecoms services.
According to the Cabinet Office, the initiative will help to deliver savings of up to £500 million on the government's annual information and communications technology (ICT) budget of £16.5 billion.
Each network involved in the PSN is subject to strict quality standards to ensure it guarantees integrity and security.
Under the new deal, BT has been chosen to provide the core network underpinning the PSN, which will involve it delivering a secure communications spine to other providers involved in the project.
John Stubley, director of the PSN programme, said the agreement illustrates the government's recognition that BT is committed to supporting the scheme and the new ICT strategy.
President of BT Global Services for government and health Neil Rogers insisted the company can draw on its substantial experience to help public sector organisations make the change to PSN compliance, while also achieving service improvements and cost savings.
He added: "The PSN also creates a new and competitive market for shared 'cloud' services on top of the network, something which presents a real opportunity for BT given our expertise in networked IT services."
The news comes shortly after BT's rival Virgin Media announced it had been awarded the first interim PSN security accreditation following a rigorous three-week audit of its network.
Officially awarded to the cable giant on March 31st 2011, the title is a guarantee that Virgin will ensure the security and integrity of data passing across its infrastructure.
Commenting at the time, Mr Stubley said: "The company is continuing to deliver on its promises following the commitment of its fibre optic network to help underpin the PSN."