ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) today launched “DISH Network High-Speed Internet powered by WildBlue,” a satellite-delivered broadband Internet service. Now, consumers can bundle the lowest-priced, all-digital TV service in the nation with the convenience and speed of broadband Internet access.

DISH Network High-Speed Internet powered by WildBlue is a two-way satellite service that provides an always-on, high-speed data connection. Available packages are up to 30 times faster than dial-up, so there are no similar delays accessing the Internet and no worries about busy signals or being disconnected.

“Our customers living in rural communities have endured the slower speeds of dial-up simply because they haven’t had choices when it comes to high-speed Internet service providers,” said Jim DeFranco, executive vice president at EchoStar. “With DISH Network High-Speed Internet powered by WildBlue, they now have access to affordable broadband Internet via satellite with speeds comparable to DSL or cable modem – without the need for an additional phone line.”

“There is a large demand for an affordable satellite broadband solution from homes and small businesses that haven’t been able to enjoy high-speed benefits in the past,” said Dave Leonard, CEO of WildBlue. “We’re excited to work with a powerful distributor like EchoStar to make high-speed Internet services powered by WildBlue available to their customers across the country.”

Consumers can sign up for service through authorized DISH Network retailers. Packages start at $49.95 per month and include multiple email addresses, web hosting space, and 24/7 DISH Network technical support. A separate satellite dish is required to receive the high-speed Internet service; however an additional phone line is not necessary.

For more information or to subscribe to DISH Network or DISH Network High-Speed Internet powered by WildBlue, contact a local DISH Network retailer or visit www.dishnetwork.com.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 12.46 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network™, the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).