The solution currently converges CAF's data and video traffic over a single connection, linking the institution's offices in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela and Brazil with its telecommunication hub in Miami. CAF also plans to utilize Global Crossing Managed IP VPN to converge its voice services in the near future. CAF will also benefit from Global Crossing's managed services, a full end-to-end turn-key solution for IP VPN, enabling the institution's team to focus on core business responsibilities while Global Crossing ensures a secure, flexible, reliable and high-performing IP VPN.

CAF's voice, data and video traffic is transported over Global Crossing's secure, privately owned and operated MPLS-based IP backbone, physically separate from the public internet. Global Crossing provides a converged IP solution that is both scalable and flexible; supporting customer-tailored migration paths for the transition from traditional voice services to IP-based voice services. CAF will utilize Global Crossing's Direct Dial Services for voice, and has plans to employ VoIP in the near future. CAF has already begun accessing IP Video and iVideo for its videoconferencing solutions through the new managed IP VPN service.

"CAF has to meet the needs of many types of organizations - from governmental entities to private investors. After evaluating numerous options, it was evident that Global Crossing's superior network, performance and global capabilities at competitive prices would help us manage our audiences' varying needs," commented Esteban Cover, director of technology at CAF. "The nature of CAF's work can take our staff to very remote places. Global Crossing had the network guarantees and reach we could count on, with the local access and speed we need for our staff to be effective."

"This is an excellent example of how Global Crossing's network, global reach and converged IP service offering is a perfect fit for the financial sector in Latin America," said Pablo Mlikota, vice president of corporate sales, Latin America and southeastern US. "Financial institutions find that our solutions serve as a strategic tool for their businesses, and we're delighted that CAF has recognized the quality and value we can bring to their organisation."