Neither party may assign this Agreement, in whole or in part, without the other party’s express prior consent except that Verizon may assign this Agreement without consent (a) to an Affiliate or (b) in connection with a Change of Control. “<strong>Change of Control</strong>” means one or more transactions whereby (i) Control of a party is transferred, whether by operation of law or otherwise. (ii) all or substantially all of such party’s assets or equity securities are acquired. or (iii) such party is merged or consolidated with or into another entity.