Qwest To Offer Windows Live Services To Broadband Customers

Qwest Communications International Inc. has agreed to offer co-branded Windows Live services from Microsoft Corp. to broadband customers, both companies said Tuesday.

Qwest is the first U.S. Internet service provider to announce plans to offer Windows Live services as part of its high-speed service, the companies said. Qwest currently offers MSN services.

"Qwest will offer its customers improved, more personalized Internet experiences through Windows Live services," Dan Yost, executive vice president, product and marketing for Denver-based Qwest, said in a statement.

The Live services planned for Qwest customers include Windows Live OneCare, which provides anti-virus and anti-spyware software and a firewall. In addition, customers will have the option of setting up a co-branded personalized homepage and Windows Live instant messaging and email services.

Qwest high-speed Internet service starts at $27 a month for a download speed of 1.5 megabytes per second.