LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Feb. 7, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Windstream (Nasdaq:WIN), a leading provider of advanced network communications, announced today that its MPLS enabled Virtual LAN Services are now certified by the Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) to be Carrier Ethernet 1.0 Certified and compliant for both MEF 9 and MEF 14 technical specifications.

The MEF is a global telecommunications industry alliance dedicated to worldwide adoption of Carrier Ethernet networks and services. It uses third-party testing lab Iometrix to oversee the MEF Certification Program and verify compliance of service providers' services to MEF technical specifications through a rigorous series of tests based on MEF approved test suites. These cover the MEF carrier Ethernet services that are verified at the UNI (user network interface), which is the point where the provider interfaces with the subscriber to deliver the services.

"Because our VLS products have been thoroughly vetted, enterprise customers looking to leverage more Ethernet-based services, as well as wholesale carrier partners, can be confident in their partnership with Windstream," said Don Perkins, Windstream senior vice president of Business Marketing. "As a premier provider of advanced communications, we will continue to serve our customers and help shape industry standards moving forward."

Windstream was also recently awarded two Best Practice Awards from Frost & Sullivan with the 2012 U.S. Competitive Strategy Leadership Award in Retail Carrier Ethernet Services, as well as the 2012 North American Market Share Leadership Award in VoIP Access and SIP Trunking Services.

Windstream offers a full suite of advanced network communications and technology solutions, including voice and data services such as VoIP, SIP trunking, VPN, and dedicated high-speed Internet. Windstream also offers managed services, cloud computing, disaster recovery, and networking services designed to help businesses increase productivity and improve operational costs. For more information, visit www.windstream.com.

About Windstream

Windstream Corp. (Nasdaq:WIN) is a leading provider of advanced network communications, including cloud computing and managed services, to businesses nationwide. The company also offers broadband, phone and digital TV services to consumers primarily in rural areas. Windstream has more than $6 billion in annual revenues and is listed on the S&P 500 index. For more information, visit www.windstream.com.

The Windstream Corporation logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=8314

CONTACT: Alice Hartnett

         704-887-0327

         alice.hartnett@windstream.com
Source: Windstream Corporation

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