Level 3 Introduces Bandwidth Solution that Offers One-Stop Shop for Gaming Companies

BROOMFIELD, Colorado, October 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

- Level 3's 'Bandwidth Optimizer' Combines Online Gaming Connectivity, Delivery, Flexibility and Risk Mitigation in One

Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT) today introduced Bandwidth Optimizer - a service that combines the power of a global High Speed IP (HSIP) transit network with Level 3's content delivery network (CDN) platform to maximize and optimize bandwidth efficiency.

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Designed specifically with the online gaming industry in mind, Level 3's Bandwidth Optimizer offers access to both HSIP and CDN services, which can be used interchangeably. This not only affords customers the flexibility to access the right amount of bandwidth at the right time, but also significantly reduces risk of service delays during game launches and updates.

"We have worked on a number of game launches and patches, and know how much speed and reliability can dictate the success of a customer's product," said Mark Taylor, vice president of Content and Media at Level 3. "Our new Bandwidth Optimizer solution was built to address industry needs, and allows game developers and publishers to spend more time focusing on creating the best gaming experiences possible."

Level 3, a leading network services provider to the online gaming industry, owns and operates one of the largest, most scalable networks in the world, taking the uncertainty out of planning for the infrastructure capacity for nearly any online gaming experience. In addition, because its HSIP and CDN services are available on one platform, Level 3 can easily work with customers to quickly address any needs or changes.

The Level 3 network is trusted by many entertainment and media companies to deliver content to audiences worldwide. The company's services for the gaming industry are similarly designed to seamlessly deliver high-quality online content to end-users, allowing developers and publishers to spend more time designing and developing the best games possible and less time thinking about how to deliver them online.

For more information on Level 3's services for the gaming industry, visit http://www.level3.com/en/Solutions/industry/Digital-Entertainment/Gaming.aspx.

About Level 3 Communications

Level 3 Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: LVLT) is a premier international provider of IP-based communications services to enterprise, content, government and wholesale customers. Over its reliable, scalable and secure network, Level 3 delivers integrated IP solutions, including converged, data, voice, video and managed solutions to help enable customers' growth and efficiency. Level 3 operates a unique global services platform anchored by owned fiber networks on three continents in more than 45 countries, connected by extensive undersea facilities reaching five continents. For more information, visit http://www.level3.com.

© Level 3 Communications, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Level 3, Level 3 Communications, Level (3), Think Ahead, the Level 3 Logo and the Level 3 Think Ahead logo are either registered service marks or service marks of Level 3 Communications, LLC and/or one of its Affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. Level 3 services are provided by wholly owned subsidiaries of Level 3 Communications, Inc. Any other service names, product names, company names or logos included herein are the trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statement

Some of the statements made in this press release are forward looking in nature. These statements are based on management's current expectations or beliefs. These forward looking statements are not a guarantee of performance and are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside Level 3's control, which could cause actual events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the statements. The most important factors that could prevent Level 3 from achieving its stated goals include, but are not limited to: the company's ability to successfully integrate the Global Crossing acquisition, the current uncertainty in the global financial markets and the global economy; a discontinuation of the development and expansion of the Internet as a communications medium and marketplace for the distribution and consumption of data and video; and disruptions in the financial markets that could affect Level 3's ability to obtain additional financing. Additional factors include, but are not limited to, the company's ability to: increase and maintain the volume of traffic on its network; develop effective business support systems; manage system and network failures or disruptions; develop new services that meet customer demands and generate acceptable margins; defend intellectual property and proprietary rights; adapt to rapid technological changes that lead to further competition; attract and retain qualified management and other personnel; successfully integrate future acquisitions; and meet all of the terms and conditions of debt obligations. Additional information concerning these and other important factors can be found within Level 3's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements in this press release should be evaluated in light of these important factors. Level 3 is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any such obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    Contact Information
    
    Level 3 Communications
    Media:                            Investors:
    Francie Bauer                     Mark Stoutenberg
    +1-720-888-5434                   +1-720-888-2518
    E-mail [francie.bauer@level3.com] E-mail [mark.stoutenberg@level3.com]