Microsoft on Monday said it had signed deals to offer its MSN Internet access service over high-speed DSL connections provided by three major telephone companies, stepping up the software giant"s battle with Internet rival AOL.
Microsoft will offer MSN over DSL, through partnerships with Verizon, BellSouth and SBC Communications Inc., Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer told a conference call.
The deals would offer high-speed access to MSN to 90 percent of DSL-capable U.S. homes by early next year, Microsoft said. MSN already offers high-speed access through a partnership with Qwest Communications International Inc. Q.N.
Microsoft said high-speed MSN would cost less than $50 a month, and new subscribers would receive two months free, a free DSL modem and free installation.