Parsons Brinckerhoff Relies on Verizon Business to Build and Secure Data Network

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. - Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB), a leading global infrastructure consulting, planning, engineering and construction management company, has tapped Verizon Business to build and manage a secure, state-of-the-art Internet protocol (IP) communications network, under a three-year, $5 million agreement.  The agreement covers all communication and IT services, including professional security and managed network services, and technology equipment.

The new Verizon Business network will link PB's New York City-based headquarters with more than 150 sites across the U. S., Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. It will also provide a single platform for securely deploying companywide software applications and other collaborative tools. The Private IP service, an MPLS-based virtual private network, replaces several older regional networks. 

"Verizon Business offered us the best overall technology solution to help us achieve our goals of improving communications and enhancing our infrastructure operations to benefit communities around the world," said Michael McPherson, director, enterprise IT operations, Parsons Brinckerhoff. "Their expansive global network, exceptional security and managed service capabilities enable them to provide the perfect solution to help us work better and control our IT costs by doing more with less."

Securing PB Data

With the advent of its new, inherently secure Private IP network, PB also needed to rethink its overall information security program. Verizon's professional services team consolidated more than 100 disparate Internet points of entry into six highly secure access points.  The team also designed and is deploying firewall and intrusion prevention systems, as well as device monitoring and management services, to protect sensitive corporate data.  

PB will also deploy new security measures to protect e-mail from viruses and spam and its network from viruses that can be brought in from the Internet when the company's 12,500 corporate users access the Web from around the globe.

"Verizon Business offers Parsons Brinckerhoff and other multinational customers security management across the enterprise, wherever they operate," said Richard G. Black, senior vice president of corporate accounts for Verizon Business. "We know one size doesn't fit all, so we designed the right solution for PB. The solution gives the company confidence in doing business securely and in knowing it is well-protected from a breach, virus or other known or unknown threat."

The Managed Service Advantage

Verizon Business manages 270,000-plus security, network and hosting devices across more than 4,000 customer networks spanning 142 countries and territories. The company also oversees non-Verizon connections from more than 60 network providers worldwide.  Verizon Business' industry-leading managed network service-level commitments and award-winning IMPACT management platform underscore a legacy of service and innovation. 

About Parsons Brinckerhoff
Parsons Brinckerhoff is a leader in developing and operating infrastructure around the world, with approximately 12,500 employees dedicated to meeting the needs of clients and communities in the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australia-Pacific regions. PB offers skills and resources in strategic consulting, planning, engineering, program/construction management, and operations for all modes of infrastructure, including transportation, power, community development, water and the environment (www.pbworld.com).

About Verizon Business
Verizon Business, a unit of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ), operates the world's most connected public IP network and uses its industry-leading global-network capabilities to offer large-business and government customers an unmatched combination of security, reliability and speed.  The company integrates advanced IP communications and information technology (IT) products and services to deliver leading enterprise solutions including managed services, security, mobility, collaboration and professional services.  These solutions power innovation and enable the company's customers to do business better. For more information, visit www.verizonbusiness.com.

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