Internet2 is an advanced networking consortium. Internet2 is the only experimental network in the U.S. for research in networking technologies. All major universities as well as U.S. Government agencies conducting research are connected to this network. In order to access the network, one must be a member of the Internet2 Consortium and have a physical high speed network connection to the backbone network of the Internet2, the Abilene Network, and pay membership and network connection fees. The proposed fiber connection is in place from the NIST Gaithersburg campus to the high speed network provider, Mid-Atlantic Crossroads (MAX), who will in turn connect NIST to the Abilene Network. As no other such network exists, Internet2 is the only alternative.

The NAICS Code is 813920 with a size standard of 14.0M. NIST anticipates negotiating and awarding a firm-fixed-price purchase order for this requirement.

No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, the Government will consider responses received by established date and time.

A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.