Verizon Wireless said Wednesday it has begun offering a service which allows businesses to use its high-speed data network as a backup to standard Internet connections or when more bandwidth is needed.

The company has announced the BroadbandAccess Wireless Router Service, as well as announcing an interface cart select Cisco service routers that will allow networks to connect to the service.

"BroadbandAccess Wireless Router Service on the Verizon Wireless network is a secure, reliable back-up to landline service," Cindy Patterson, vice president of enterprise data sales for Verizon Wireless said.

In the event that traditional Internet connections are cut, a network will be able to switch over to Verizon Wireless' to maintain connectivity. The wireless carrier said it could also be used as a backup to provide supplementary bandwidth on an as-needed basis.

Depending on a user's bandwidth needs, plans will be offered from $39.99 to $549.99 monthly access. Those interested should contact their business sales representative, it said in a statement.

Verizon Wireless' announcement is somewhat curious as it has traditionally clamped down on bandwidth through its wireless network, claiming large amounts of data transfer slows down access for all users.

For example, its "unlimited" consumer data plans actually carry a 5GB maximum monthly data transfer, and those who go over that limit find their service cut without any prior notice. Business users could easily exceed this limit.

A request for comment from Verizon was outstanding as of press time.