CG-STUG-001 Issue 1.28-August 4, 2006

With one of the most modern telecommunications networks in the world, BellSouth is known for its state-of-the-art technology, outstanding quality and widespread coverage in its nine-state region - Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Now, through BellSouth Interconnection Services all these advantages are available to carrier customers, including CLECs.

The BellSouth Interconnection Services Team has designed a comprehensive program to help CLECs navigate through the many specific requirements to be met and decisions to be made when entering the local telecommunications market. For example, the state utilities/public service commission or regulatory authority to become a local exchange carrier and provide telecommunications services to customers must first certify a CLEC. Each state has statutes, rules, and regulations regarding certification and the operation of telecommunications companies. Additionally, there are two primary methods through which a CLEC can provide telecommunications services to customers: as a reseller of telecommunications services purchased from other telecommunications carriers or through facilities owned or leased by the CLEC. Please see the Activation for Resale and Facility-based CLECs section in this guide for more specific Activation information.

To assist CLECs with all of these procedures, BellSouth offers multiple support options, including such resources as CLEC training, Internet access, CLEC documentation, dedicated service centers, and the BellSouth Interconnection Services Team. The BellSouth Start-Up Guide provides general information about the resources that BellSouth provides to assist CLECs in establishing successful business relationships.