Verimatrix Secures IPTV for HickoryTech

October 23, 2007

Source: Verimatrix

Verimatrix, setting the standard in content security technologies that enhance the value of pay-TV networks, today announced at TelcoTV 2007 that its Verimatrix Video Content Authority System (VCAS™) for IPTV has been successfully deployed for HickoryTech’s Digital TV service. Covering 10 communities in Minnesota, HickoryTech offers its triple play services of Digital TV, high-speed DSL, and local and long-distance phone service as a compelling alternative to cable and satellite.

HickoryTech required proven cost-effective solutions that could be deployed quickly and scale with the growth of the subscriber base. As the independently recognized global leader in software-based security, VCAS offers flexibility in the choice of client devices, broad middleware interoperability, and proven scalability. Verimatrix has integrated Nokia Siemens Networks' IP Video software and Entone’s Hydra IP video gateways as part of HickoryTech’s IPTV platform.

“Effective content protection is a vital component in our Digital TV system and in creating a secure all-digital channel line-up,” said Damon Dutz, president of HickoryTech's Consumer Solutions Division. “Throughout our testing and deployment period, VCAS proved to be a reliable solution that requires minimal operational support. Verimatrix’s hands-on technical and customer service support has enabled our engineering team to tune the system for maximum competitive advantage.”

HickoryTech’s Digital TV service offers customized TV packages that allow customers to choose specific channels to create their own package or subscribe to a premium package with more than 200 all digital channels. With a fiber-to-the-node (FTTN) over DSL network, HickoryTech can deliver services to regional areas in Minnesota and has 67,000 access lines across Minnesota and Iowa.

“HickoryTech is an excellent example of IPTV going mainstream,” said Steve Oetegenn, chief sales and marketing officer, Verimatrix. “They have deployed best-in-class solutions that reduce the overall costs of system operation and help maximize revenue potential. We are thrilled to work with an innovative company that is proving that digital TV over an IP network is an attractive business model.”

VCAS was designed from the ground up for two-way and hybrid networks. Cryptographic and e-commerce technologies proven on the Internet, including PKI and X.509 certificates, enable VCAS to offer a more sophisticated level of content protection than traditional smartcard-based systems. Devices and systems within media delivery networks are encrypted and authenticated in order to identify security breaches and unauthorized network users.

About HickoryTech

HickoryTech Corporation (NASDAQ: HTCO), headquartered in Mankato, Minn., offers integrated communication products and services to business and residential customers over a regional fiber network. The company is in its 110th year of operation and has approximately 400 employees. The Telecom Sector, with facilities-based operations in Minnesota and Iowa, offers local voice, long distance, high-speed Internet, Digital TV and IP networking services to residential and business customers. In addition, the Telecom Sector develops telecom and carrier access billing solutions and customer management systems. The Enventis Sector provides IP-based voice, data and network solutions to businesses across a five-state region. For more information, visit www.hickorytech.com.

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