Google Inc.’s ambitions to expand its Google Fiber service into more markets has seen the tech giant acquire San Francisco-based high-speed, fiber internet service provider Webpass, Inc.

Founded in 2003, Webpass offers services in five major markets including the San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego, Chicago, Boston, and Miami, and has over 20,000 customers.

The company primarily focuses on providing businesses with ethernet-based fiber connections however it does also provide residential internet in select markets for buildings built after 1995, including apartment blocks.

Of particular interest to Google is Webpass’ use of wireless technology to deliver some of its services, an emerging area in high-speed internet delivery.

Webpass uses a mixture point-to-point radio and fiber-based networks to deliver its Ethernet service; small millimeter wave radios that connect to the Internet are installed on the rooftops of Webpass buildings with the connection then delivered to residential units and businesses via an Ethernet cable.

“By joining forces, we can accelerate the deployment of superfast Internet connections for customers across the U.S.” Webpass Founder and President Charles Barr said in a statement. “Webpass will remain focused on rapid deployment of high-speed Internet connections for residential and commercial buildings, primarily using point to point wireless….joining Google Fiber will be a great development for our users because the companies share the same vision of the future and commitment to the customer.”

Expansion

The deal is notable for Google Fiber’s growth ambitions for two reasons, the first being their willingness to buy existing infrastructure to expand, and secondly their desire to buy into that infrastructure so as to gain access to large buildings, many of which are difficult to access due to incumbent players often having exclusive access to them.

While Webpass isn’t a huge company it does have a presence in the San Francisco Bay area, an area Google Fiber has previously expressed an interest into expanding in, and Webpass’ existing toehold in the area opens the door for further Google expansion.

The price of the acquisition was not disclosed and the deal is expected to close this summer, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

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