Windstream and EarthLink announced that their boards of directors have approved a definitive merger agreement in an all-stock transaction valued at around $1.1 billion, including debt. The combo could make Windstream more competitive by adding its enterprise segment scale with EarthLink’s SD-WAN services. Further, the merger will result in a national footprint spanning approximately 145,000 fiber route miles and offer advanced network connectivity, managed services, voice, internet, and other related services. The footprint includes strategic routes in the Southeast and Northeast United States.

The news comes on the heels of the recent announcement by CenturyLink that it intends to buy fiber powerhouse Level 3 in a $34 billion deal.

Beyond footprint expansion, the Windstream/Earthlink deal involves operating and capital expense synergies, tax benefits, and increases in cash flow, according to the companies.

“The combination with EarthLink further advances Windstream’s strategy by creating a stronger, more competitive business to serve our customers while increasing free cash flow and reducing leverage,” Windstream President and CEO Tony Thomas says. “With this transaction, we are combining two highly complementary organizations with closely aligned operating strategies and business unit structures.”

Thomas will serve as president and CEO and Bob Gunderman will be CFO after the transaction closes. The combined company will keep the Windstream moniker and have its headquarters in Little Rock, Ark.