NASA Signs New Agreement With Qwest for Next-Generation Optical Data Networking

DENVER, February 7, 2006 – Qwest Communications (NYSE: Q) today announced that it has signed a new agreement with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for a new nationwide networking service.

Qwest will provide both local connectivity and nationwide connectivity to six NASA centers as well as other NASA locations – the entire core of NASA’s new network. Qwest’s solution provides end-to-end wavelength services using the company’s industry-leading QWave™ optical communication services.

Starting with circuits at 2.5 Gigabits per second (Gbps), and immediately scalable to 10 Gbps, the new core network will provide the long-term foundation for moving the huge amounts of data that NASA will generate as it continues its exploration of the frontiers of space and aeronautics.

The project continues Qwest’s long-term involvement with NASA that includes services for the current NASA Information Systems Network, NASA Research and Education Network, and international services for the NASA Deep Space Network.

This newest NASA agreement is via the FTS 2001 Crossover contract that Qwest, and others, were awarded to compete with FTS 2001 incumbent providers. Since then, federal agencies have had more choices, resulting in lower prices and better service, as well as innovation for all agencies.

“We’re thrilled to continue our work with NASA under the FTS 2001 Crossover agreement,” said Thomas Richards, executive vice president, business markets group for Qwest. “We are especially gratified to see our position grow within the federal government and its agencies. Without FTS 2001 Crossover, federal agencies wouldn’t have the freedom of choice they enjoy today. We hope this choice-driven sentiment continues.”

Qwest provides communications including data networking services and local and long-distance voice services to many federal agencies as both a primary and secondary service provider. The company is a leading provider to dozens of federal agencies including the Department of Defense, the Department of Treasury, the Department of Energy, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Postal Service.

About Qwest

Qwest Communications International Inc. (NYSE: Q), through its operating subsidiaries, is a leading provider of high-speed Internet, data, video and voice services. With approximately 40,000 employees, Qwest is committed to the “Spirit of Service” and providing world-class services that exceed customers’ expectations for quality, value and reliability. For more information, please visit the Qwest Web site at www.qwest.com.

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