The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded Verizon Communications [VZ] a potential $678.5 million contract to be the primary provider for a common secure global Internet Protocol (IP) network as the department transitions to its OneNet program. AT&T‘s [T] Government Solutions business received a potential $292 million award to be the back up provider in the Eastern and Western regions under OneNet. The contracts run for 10 years and were awarded under the General Services Administration’s Networx Universal contract vehicle, which allows government agencies to purchase telecommunications and related network services. Under OneNet DHS is consolidating seven legacy Wide Area Networks into a single IP network infrastructure. The existing WANS are a legacy from the formation of DHS five years ago when 22 separate agencies were merged to create the department. OneNet is expected to improve cyber security and improve data sharing throughout DHS.