March 7, 2002 -- SBC Communications Inc. (NYSE:SBC), parent company of Pacific Bell, announced a new, enhanced self-install solution for its DSL Internet access service customers that promises to cut installation time by more than 50 percent.

SBC's self-install solution already is used by more than 90 percent of customers who order DSL Internet access service, and was recently recognized for technical innovation by the International Engineering Consortium for its customer benefits and market impact.

The new self-install solution, being offered to customers throughout the Pacific Bell region, replaces a previous two disk CD-ROM process with a simple, single disk procedure that guides the customer step-by-step through the installation process with easy-to-understand instructions and graphics.

The ease of the new self-install solution also has resulted in a reduction in written instructions from a 30-page booklet to a one-page, bi-fold brochure.

The single disk CD-ROM places troubleshooting capabilities directly on customers' personal computers, ensuring their PCs are optimized for a broadband connection. Other new features automatically test and upgrade customers' browsers to the latest editions, configure the e-mail system for the customer, and guide the user through the registration process.

Consumer testing of the single disk solution indicates the entire process can be completed in about 30 minutes, cutting in half the amount of time needed to self-install DSL Internet access service.

Later this year, SBC will add other elements to the self-installation process, further enhancing diagnostic tools that will automatically identify and correct problems with customers' personal computers before they affect their DSL Internet service.

With the addition of the enhanced self-install solution, SBC is taking other steps to improve customer service. Beginning this month, due dates for DSL Internet access service for new customers are being reduced to approximately 6 days in most areas, down from 7 to 10 days. Additionally, more than 96 percent of customers are receiving their DSL Internet access service on or before their scheduled due date.

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