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Note: For VPN news after 10/01/06, please go to Optical Networking

VPN News (Before 10/01/06)

Verizon Business wins $100M contract
Verizon Business has entered into a new five-year, $100 million agreement with Johnson Controls, Inc. to provide a wide range of managed Internet protocol-based communication services supporting the company's worldwide business operations.
Under terms of the agreement, Verizon Business is extending its nine-year relationship with Johnson Controls, a leading global provider of automotive interiors, building efficiency and power solutions, to deliver and completely manage an integrated global IP networking solution comprising Private IP, IP VPN, Internet and voice services. To accommodate Johnson Controls' continued growth, Verizon Business will expand the company's Private IP network in the Asia-Pacific region. This expanded footprint, coupled with the introduction of Verizon Secure Gateway, will enable Johnson Controls' employees around the world to securely and seamlessly communicate with each other across their global IP network.
"As Johnson Controls has grown and expanded geographically, Verizon Business has been a critical telecommunications provider for us," said Sam Valanju, vice president and CIO for Johnson Controls. "We can rely on Verizon Business to focus on the telecommunications heart of our operations, while we focus on our key areas of business -- making cars and buildings smarter, more comfortable and more efficient. Verizon Business' expansive global IP network is the infrastructure foundation that we have in place today and the springboard for future IP-based telecommunications applications we may introduce in the future."
Related Channels: VoIP, VPN

ADTRAN intros fixed-port IP access routers
ADTRAN, Inc., a leading global provider of networking and communications equipment, announced the introduction of the NetVanta 3100 Series of fixed-port IP access routers. These devices are designed to address the needs of SMBs for secure cost-effective Internet access and corporate connectivity using carrier-supplied broadband services such as DSL or cable.
The NetVanta 3100 Series consists of the NetVanta 3120 and NetVanta 3130. The NetVanta 3120 is a fixed-port Ethernet router with an integral four-port managed Ethernet switch, a single 10/100Base-T Ethernet WAN interface, and an analog modem for dial-backup or remote management. The NetVanta 3130 is a fixed-port ADSL access router with an integral four-port managed Ethernet switch, a single ADSL WAN interface, and an analog modem for dial-backup or remote management. In addition to ADSL and ADSL2, the NetVanta 3130 supports today's most advanced ADSL technology, ADSL2+, for applications with the ability to take advantage of its greater reach and higher bandwidth (up to 25Mbps).
Each of these devices offers a variety of standard features including: standards-based routing/switching protocols; stateful inspection firewall for network security; IPSec VPN for secure corporate connectivity across the Internet; a familiar Command Line Interface (CLI) that eliminates re-training of technical personnel; a user-friendly Web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI); NAT-compatible SIP ALG for VoIP applications; Quality of Service (QoS) for VoIP and other delay-sensitive applications; and an analog dial-backup interface for disaster recovery/mission critical applications or for remote management by the carrier.
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, Ethernet, VPN, xDSL

Zhejiang Telecom picks Redback's multiservice edge routers
Redback Networks Inc. announced another new customer in China. Zhejiang Telecom will use Redback's SmartEdge family of multi-service edge routers to deliver broadband Internet, IPTV and virtual private network (VPN) services to business and residential users. Zhejiang Telecom is a major subsidiary of China Telecom Corporation, the largest wire-line carrier in China. There are more than 3 million broadband subscribers in Zhejiang province and more than 30+ million broadband users in China.
"We want to thank Zhejiang Telecom for selecting Redback," said Simon Williams, vice president of sales and operations in Asia, Redback Networks. "China is Redback's second largest market outside the U.S. and we are pleased that Zhejiang Telecom leaders share Redback's vision of a single IP network for broadband data, voice and video services. Over time, we see a future where all communications services will be managed in harmony under a broadband infrastructure."
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, xDSL, Video, VPN, China

Verizon Business to provide global private network to REANNZ
University and library researchers in New Zealand will soon collaborate more effectively with their counterparts in the rest of the world. Under a three-year agreement with Research Education Advanced Network New Zealand (REANNZ), a New Zealand government-sponsored initiative, Verizon Business will fully manage a high-speed, global network service connecting REANNZ users with their colleagues who use similar research and education networks in North America, Asia, Europe and Australia. Participants in New Zealand include universities, Crown research institutes and the National Library.
The advanced network will directly link Auckland with Sydney and Seattle, providing the dedicated bandwidth needed to share large data files, including still and moving graphics. Verizon Business will monitor the private network 24 by 7 to prevent downtime and promote availability.
Dr. Jim Watson, chairman of REANNZ, says that until now, New Zealand has been restricted by the technical performance of regular Internet services. "This has limited the participation of New Zealand organisations in research, development and education activities. For New Zealand to truly compete internationally in R&D, this network is essential."
Charles Jarvie, head of development for REANNZ, says the network adds important capabilities. "Until now, much of collaboration in research and education with overseas parties has been done using regular Internet services such as e-mail and low-level, file-transfer processes," he comments.
"Having a dedicated high performance network to support network-based collaboration techniques will enable New Zealand researchers to build on opportunities with their international peers. The government has taken a valuable step in funding a major project that provides international connectivity to help further research."
Related Channels: VPN

Verizon Business to provide a managed private IP MPLS network for Helly Hansen's global operation
Verizon Business Thursday announced its selection by Helly Hansen, the global manufacturer of high-performance clothing and survival products, to provide a Managed Private IP network connecting its major offices around the world. The MPLS network will provide secure and reliable connections between Helly Hansen's mission-critical headquarters in Oslo, Norway, and seven other major sites in Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Helly Hansen employs more than 700 employees in 17 countries around the world, all of whom rely on applications and communications tools hosted at its headquarters in Norway to run daily business operations. The company selected Verizon Business not only to manage the data network connecting its global sites, but also to provide a secure gateway to ensure that vital business applications from headquarters are always available. Verizon Business has installed two routers and dual access lines, dramatically increasing Helly Hansen's network capacity to support current and projected voice and data needs. "We run a whole host of services and business tools out of our Norwegian office, which all of our other offices around the world depend on day and night," said Einar Lonnum, chief information officer, Helly Hansen. "The managed IP network provided by Verizon Business gives us peace of mind in terms of both service level agreements and a help-desk service that actively monitors the wide area network lines 24/7, helping us to keep our business operational round-the-clock."
Making the offering even more attractive was Verizon Business' complete portfolio of communications tools, which enable efficient and real-time interaction, Lonnum added.
Using the Verizon Business IP network, all of Helly Hansen's offices can access vital business applications such as Enterprise Resource Planning and videoconferencing. Helly Hansen also is trialing a Verizon Business Voice-over-IP service at its headquarters and intends to eventually deploy VoIP globally.
John Irvine, vice president of international marketing for Verizon Business, said: "Helly Hansen demands a lot from its network and needs a secure and robust service to run its critical applications and programs across all of its sites around the world. Verizon Business was able to meet its rigorous demands today, and also provide the extra flexibility and scalability Helly Hansen needs to continue developing its global business in the future."
Related Channels: VoIP, Video, OSS/BSS, VPN

Telstra and Alcatel announce $270 million IP works program for 2006/07
Telstra Corporation and Alcatel Thursday announced a works program for Telstra's fixed network transformation in 2006/07, with an expected value of Euro 270 million (AUD460 million).
This works program is part of Alcatel and Telstra's strategic supplier relationship announced in November 2005. It will see Telstra move to the next phase of its Internet Protocol (IP) network transformation that will deliver leading-edge services to 5.3 million Telstra customers over the next five years.
In 2006/07, Alcatel will establish an IP network footprint in five Australian cities - Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide - by supplying and deploying its leading portfolio of technology including IP-DSLAMs, Ethernet aggregation and optical networking solutions.
"Since announcing its transformation strategy in November 2005, Telstra has made solid progress in its move to a next generation fixed network - Telstra connected its first customer to Alcatel's IP-DSLAM technology early this year," said Telstra's Executive Managing Director of Network & Technology, Mr. Dan Burns.
"These upgrades are important for future-proofing our network over the next five to ten years, where we will be able to provide customers with access to offerings such as high speed internet, telecommuting, video conferencing and video delivery of services in general."
As part of the 2006/07 works program, Alcatel will test the first mated pair of softswitches in Australia, in the Telstra Integration Laboratory.
Frédéric Rose, President of Alcatel's Asia Pacific activities, said: "This confirms Alcatel's participation as a key strategic supplier to Telstra as it continues the transformation of its fixed network to a next-generation IP-based network. Alcatel's integrated and flexible architecture will provide Telstra with a scalable, future-proofed network that can simultaneously deliver new personalized multi-media services to residential customers and advanced VPN services to businesses."
Related Channels: xDSL, Ethernet, VoIP, VPN

SingTel launches global Ethernet-VPN
Singapore Telecommunications Limited (SingTel) announced the availability of a new international Ethernet service for its global corporate customers.
Called ConnectPlus Ethernet-VPN, this cost effective and scalable solution offers customers any-to-any connectivity between two or more countries. It also comes with the assurance of Class of Service (CoS) and Service Level Guarantee (SLG).
This new service, which runs on SingTel's state-of-the-art MPLS network, is ideal for customers who are currently using international data wide-area networks (WANs) but wish to retain control over their network routing. It is also suitable for those -- especially from the banking and financial sectors - - who run applications with non-Internet Protocol (IP) traffic because such applications are difficult to be carried over an IP-VPN.
With the ubiquitous Ethernet interface, which typically costs a fraction of the price of other network interfaces, Ethernet-VPN customers can also expect cost savings.
Mr Bill Chang, SingTel's Executive Vice President for Business, said: "Customers have been looking forward to a service that helps to inject simplicity back into their networks. We can fulfill this demand with our new service which can deliver improved efficiency and help grow their business.
"Ethernet-VPN is the next-generation technology and is considered to be the next wave after IP. SingTel's market leadership position is further enhanced with the introduction of this next-generation network service to our customers. Building on our strong capabilities in the VPN market, our customers are assured of always being at the forefront of technology."
"We will continue to introduce new services that allow our customers to enjoy cost effective and superior network and application performance," added Mr Chang.
Related Channels: Ethernet, VPN

KPN selects Alcatel's Ethernet equipment
Alcatel has been selected by KPN, the incumbent operator in the Netherlands, to provide the network equipment to extend KPN's nationwide Ethernet Virtual Private Network (VPN) services for business customers and Ethernet aggregation for residential services. The contract is part of a substantial IP network transformation project that will give KPN one of the largest MPLS-enabled networks in the world, which in turn forms part of its All IP program, whereby most of the current (legacy) platforms and services will be migrated to Next Generation Network platforms and Next Generation based Services.
The contract was awarded by KPN following a highly competitive tendering process and is the second phase of an ambitious IP/Ethernet network transformation. Phase one was awarded to Alcatel in October 2005 for the delivery of triple play services from 28 main points of presence (POPs) and 172 medium PoPs located in 14 different regions. The second phase extension is expected to be completed by 2008 and will result in a network with an additional 1300 smaller POP locations − enabling KPN to deliver highly competitive Ethernet VPN services to businesses and consumers across the Netherlands from a single Ethernet/MPLS platform.
Related Channels: Ethernet, VPN

Huawei-3Com provides wireless VPN for 2006 FIBA Championship in Japan
The Federation of International Basketball Association (FIBA) held its World Championship 2006 from 19 August to 3 September in five cities across Japan: Saitama, Sapporo, Sendai, Hamamatsu and Hiroshima. Huawei-3Com is proud to be an equipment sponsor to FIBA 2006, providing the data communication platform for all five stadiums.
Huawei-3Com’s high performance networking solutions, including AR28-09, S3928, S3100 and S2008 routers and switches, will allow spectators in any of the five arenas to view real-time score updates and each player’s career and current statistics and records. Attending reporters can also file their stories and photos in real-time to destinations all over the world.
In addition to hardware, Huawei-3Com also supplied FIBA 2006 with wireless VPN services, IPSec encryption and firewalls for data security and PoE technologies to provide power over the WLAN AP.
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, Wireless, VPN, Security, Ethernet, China

Large-scale 10-Gigabit core router testing underway in China
The China Academy of Telecommunication Research (CATR) of China's Ministry of Information Industry (MII) is working with Spirent on large-scale testing of 10-Gigabit core routers.
Spirent test solutions will enable CATR to test the performance of core routers under high-capacity configurations and extreme networks conditions found in real-world operations.
The test systems provide wireline packet generation and analysis, along with sophisticated QoS models for simulation of real-world network scenarios. The CATR test environment consists of 16 ultra-high capacity 10 Gbps packet over SONET (PoS) interfaces.
As a part of the test series, Spirent will assess the performance of MPLS platforms, VPNs, multicast service and IPv6 networks. With these series of tests, CATR will be able to fully access the extreme forwarding capacity of core router devices and understand the technological trend of mainstream routers.
Related Channels: China, Test, Switching & Routing, VPN

Juniper enhances its ScreenOS with UTM security features
Juniper Networks, Inc. announced enhancements to its ScreenOS, the real-time, security-specific operating system for its firewall (FW) and IPSec Virtual Private Network (VPN) appliances. The new ScreenOS 5.4 enhancements give customers new tools to battle emerging content security threats. Tools include best-in-class Unified Threat Management (UTM) security features, captive redirect and policy-based routing.
'We are very excited to offer customers a complete set of UTM security features, including IPS, Antivirus (includes Anti-Spyware, Anti-Adware, Anti-Phishing), Anti-Spam, and Web Filtering, for the SSG Family of products to help protect their networks against all manner of attacks. Combined with the proven stateful firewall and IPSec VPN, this complete set of UTM features will greatly increase network attack detection and prevention at branch offices,' said Hitesh Sheth, VP of Security Products at Juniper Networks. 'Juniper Networks continues to provide the most secure FW/VPN solutions with integrated UTM security features to meet the heightened security and technology needs of organizations.'
Related Channels: Security, VPN

MTS Allstream picks Siemens Home and Office Communication Devices
Siemens Home and Office Communication Devices, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Siemens AG, announced MTS Allstream Inc. out of Manitoba, Canada, is deploying tango ™ Subscriber Manager software to centralize and automate the deployment, installation, management and support of its broadband service. Automation simplifies the broadband service lifecycle leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty, as well as cost savings for MTS Allstream.
As competition for broadband subscribers grows increasingly intense, automation becomes a vital necessity. Without it, procedures necessary for provisioning services and applying policy changes must be undertaken manually, which leads to an increase in cost. As deployments and customer bases increase in size, the process of establishing value-added services for expanding numbers of subscribers becomes more cumbersome and time consuming.
Siemens’ tango Subscriber Manager speeds up the broadband deployment process by automating the delivery of services such
as VPN networks and advanced firewall controls, as well as automating repetitive administrative tasks through its powerful scripting and policy-based operations.
“The comprehensive control offered by tango Subscriber Manager enables customers such as MTS Allstream to take control of their broadband service infrastructure,” said Jochen Eickholt, CEO of Siemens Home and Office Communication Devices. “Maintaining control of the services offered in today’s digital home is important to stay ahead of the competition.”
Related Channels: OSS/BSS, Security, VPN

Top Global intros 3G MobileBridge for mobile ITS
Top Global introduced the world‘s first 3G MobileBridge communications gateway for mobile intelligent transportation systems (ITS). The MobileBridge is a patented, mobile/portable wireless system. It is the world‘s first and the most integrated 3G mobile IP communications gateway. The MobileBridge currently supports all 3G standards including EDGE, UMTS, HSDPA, CDMA 1x, EVDO, and EVDO Rev. A. It will also support mobile WiMax and HSUPA. With EVDO Rev.A, the MobileBridge delivers up to 3.1Mbps download and 1.8Mbps peak upload speed, thus many innovative mobile and wireless applications can now be delivered.
The MobileBridge ITS supports the following features and applications:
1. GPS Tracking
2. Dynamic content filtering
3. Mobile Hot Spot with integrated Radius AAA (Airpath certified)
4. Supports walled garden, local & remote web portal.
5. Mobile wireless surveillance in motion
6. VPN and SSL for enhanced security
7. Remote Central Management, Real-time data traffic/bandwidth monitoring and management using SNMP protocol
8. Credit card, Smart card, RFID processing for payment and asset tracking in vehicle
9. Support VoIP over 3G Cellular for voice communication
10. Supports other M2M communication with sensors and controls
By connecting a GPS Mouse to the serial port of the MobileBridge, real-time GPS location information can be sent from a vehicle to a central Geographic Information System (GIS) server. The GPS Mouse can get position information from satellites through the MobileBridge and can transmit that info to GIS server via cellular network. The MobileBridge now offers both GPS tracking features as well as Internet access at the same time.
Top Global‘s MobileBridge communications gateway can be used by public transportation companies to offer "Mobile Hot Spot" service for passengers creating an entirely new revenue model. With embedded RADIUS module, the MobileBridge offers several AAA possibilities for the services including usage/traffic (Mbits), monthly, daily, and hourly fees, with credit card payment options. The MobileBridge is fully certified by Airpath Wireless, who provides the backend OSS for many commercial hot spot operators around the globe.
Related Channels: Wireless, Security, VPN, OSS/BSS, VoIP

China Mobile deploys Array Networks' SSL VPN platform
California-based Array Networks, a leading provider of optimized and secure universal access solutions, announced that China Mobile, the world's largest mobile service provider, has deployed Array's SSL VPN platform to secure its internal Office Automation Intranet and Supplier Extranet.
After nearly a year of thoroughly evaluating potential solutions, China Mobile concluded that Array Networks' SPX SSL VPN solution offers unsurpassed security features for a large-scale deployment, and lowest total cost of ownership. While most general-purpose SSL VPN solutions provide acceptable security for less than a few hundred users, they lack extra security and operational benefits needed for large-scale, diverse user deployment.
A key factor in China Mobile's choice was Array's virtualization capabilities, which offer extra security by fully separating multiple intranet and extranet resources that control user access to specific applications. Virtualization also minimizes TCO by supporting diverse user intranet and extranet portals on a single hardware platform, thereby eliminating investment in extra hardware and software.
The Array SSL VPN provides China Mobile employees with remote access to its intranet and extranet applications, which streamlines business collaboration, improves efficiency and reduces costs. Array also offers granular security control and cost-effective management benefits. Additionally, the SSL VPN solution provides China Mobile with the lowest latency and highest scalability.
"We are delighted to be partnering with China Mobile to deliver best-in-class security and operational benefits for its business critical operations," said Michael Zhao, president and CEO, Array Networks. "China Mobile and Array both recognize the need to strengthen security while reducing costs. Array's solution shines in a number of areas including virtualization and multi-layer security with custom-built ArrayOS."
Related Channels: Security, VPN, China

China's Ministry of Public Security selects Alcatel for NGN
Alcatel has been awarded a contract by China's Ministry of Public Security to deploy a next generation network (NGN). It is the second nation-wide NGN network deployed by a government organization in China, following the one deployed by Alcatel for the China State Council Information Office in 2005.
Under the terms of the contract, Alcatel will provide an integrated IP communication solution to meet the large capacity needs of the Ministry and provide efficient and secure communications across 32 provinces and cities. In addition to rich telephony features, the network also supports a wide variety of advanced IP-based multimedia services, such as presence-enhanced phone book, which enables a user to see a contact's current availability, push-to-show, which enables a user to see a contact's agenda or video conference, push-to-talk and instant messaging.
Upon the completion of the project by the end of September 2006 , the staff of the Ministry of Public Security of China will be able to enjoy interactive and multimedia services including video telephony, video conferencing, Find-Me Follow-Me; which enables a user to receive calls anytime, anywhere through any device, voice virtual private network (VPN) and soft phone applications.
The new network, including the IMS-compliant Alcatel 5020 Softswitch and Alcatel OmniPCX Enterprise, will significantly enhance the organization's operating efficiency with assured quality and performance, while maintaining a seamless connection with the existing voice networks in the second-layer cities.
Ma Xiaodong, Chief Engineer, Information & Communication Department Ministry of Public Security of China said, "We are partnering with Alcatel to help us define the optimal way forward for our traditional voice networks. Not only will the quality and efficiency of our work be enhanced with reliable and advanced communications, but Alcatel's industry leading solutions will also support the development of our networks now and in the future."
"Reliability and confidentiality are of utmost importance for a governmental organizations. Leveraging Alcatel's leadership in both traditional and next-generation voice and data, we are confident to provide a comprehensive and tailor-made NGN solution that effectively meet these requirements," said Michel Rahier, President of Alcatel's fixed communications activities.
Related Channels: VoIP, Video, Security, VPN, China

Juniper wins multiservice router deal in Japan
Juniper Networks, Inc. announced that the Yamanashi Prefecture region of Japan has deployed Juniper Networks M-series multiservice routers to help create the Yamanashi Information Highway, a next generation communications backbone which connects local government offices, cable television providers, banks and other businesses within the region. The Yamanashi Information Highway, deployed in July 2006, consolidates all data communications and broadcasting networks on a single, converged IP/MPLS network, and leverages the JUNOS operating system to create a customizable management interface for connected institutions.
"We have been working to respond to the local government requirements to build a local information network for the last few years. One of the objectives of the Yamanashi Information Highway is to provide a community of 1 million people with a network of local government offices. We chose to deploy MPLS-VPN technology as we think it is the best choice for a high speed network infrastructure because of its reliability, flexibility, and its ability to integrate disparate networks such as educational, banking, and other enterprises within a single infrastructure," said Mr. Hajime Kasai, Planning Manager, Yamanashi Prefecture. 'There are also many cable TV stations which cover the areas hard to reach with analogue broadcasting, and in the future, we expect to use this network not only for data communications but also for video distribution."
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, VPN, Video, Cable MSO

VNPT hopes to become leading NGN service provider in Vietnam
Vietnam has potential to develop New Generation Network (NGN) technology, said Chen Jie, Vice President of China's ZTE Telecommunication Group at a working session with the Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Corporation (VNPT).
NGN technology, which has many value added services, is a new development trend in the world post and telecommunications industry.
According to the Frost&Sullivan Consultancy Co., Vietnam is one of the active telecommunications markets that has many opportunities to develop NGN technology.
A VNPT representative said that the corporation has operated successfully in Vietnam using the first phase of the NGN technology. It has also provided some NGN technology-based services such as 1719, 1800, 1900, MegaWan and VPN. He believes that VNPT will become a leading NGN technology-based service provider in Vietnam.
Related Channels: VoIP, VPN

Juniper faces delisting due to delayed filing of Form 10-Q
Juniper received a Nasdaq Staff Determination letter indicating that it is not in compliance with Nasdaq's listing requirements
Juniper Networks, Inc., announced that, as anticipated, on August 14, 2006 it received a Nasdaq Staff Determination letter indicating that the Company is not currently in compliance with Nasdaq's listing requirements as set forth in Marketplace Rule 4310(c)(14) due to the delayed filing of the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2006. The Company will initiate the appeal process by requesting a hearing before the Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Panel in response to the letter. Pending a decision by the panel, Juniper shares will remain listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market.
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, Security, VPN

Mexis deploys Juniper's firewall/IPSec VPN appliances
Juniper Networks, Inc. Tuesday announced that Mexis has deployed the Juniper Networks family of firewall/IPSec VPN appliances. The Juniper Networks firewall/VPN appliances will be used within Mexis' new managed service offering, SOC. Service Policy. In addition, Juniper Networks appliances will be offered to Mexis' customers through distributor ITStrap and its strategic partners. The Mexis SOC Service Policy is a managed network security service for companies in Mexico that need secure business communications without having to invest in internal security staff.
The Mexis SOC Service Policy is designed as an initiative to offer customers network solutions for the safekeeping of their infrastructure and equipment before possible intrusions or attacks. The Mexis SOC Service Policy is an integral service through the Mexis Security Operations Center that provides an end-to end managed service solution.
At the customer premises, the secure connectivity is supported by the Juniper Networks NetScreen-5GT, NetScreen-25, NetScreen-50, NetScreen-204 and NetScreen-208 firewall/IPSec VPN products, and the Mexis Service Operation Center will provide the vulnerabilities monitoring, management and detection and risk evaluation services.
'Managed security services are an increasingly attractive solution because they provide enterprises with the highest levels of protection, without requiring them to support a dedicated IT staff,' said Tim Lambie, Juniper Networks Sales VP Americas International. 'With this solution, customers can be assured that they are getting best-in-class security technology from Juniper, combined with superior technical support and monitoring capabilities from Mexis' expert Service Operations System.'
Related Channels: Security, VPN

Juniper to restate historical financial statements
As previously announced by Juniper Networks, Inc., the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors has been conducting an investigation into the Company's stock option practices and has reached a preliminary conclusion that the actual measurement dates for financial accounting purposes of certain stock option grants issued in the past differ from the recorded grant dates of such awards.
Although the investigation is ongoing, upon the recommendation of management and the Audit Committee, the Juniper Board of Directors has concluded that the Company will need to restate historical financial statements to record additional non-cash charges for stock-based compensation expense related to past option grants. The Company has not determined the amount of such charges, the resulting tax and accounting impact, or which specific periods require restatement. Accordingly, the Company today filed a Form 8-K with the SEC stating that the financial statements and all earnings press releases and similar communications issued by the Company relating to periods beginning on or after January 1, 2003 should therefore not be relied upon.
In addition, the Company today filed a Notification of Late Filing on Form 12b-25 with the SEC indicating that the Company missed the prescribed deadline for its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ending June 30, 2006. As a result of this delinquency, the Company expects to receive a notice of delisting from Nasdaq in accordance with Nasdaq's standard process.
Juniper is committed to resolving these issues as expeditiously as possible and to file its Form 10-Q and restated financial statements as soon as practicable following completion of the independent investigation.
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, VoIP, VPN, Security

Huawei ranks No.3 among the top 100 Chinese non-state-owned enterprises listed by the Chinese version of Forbes
The Chinese version of Forbes, a magazine that tracks the world's wealthy, has officially released a list of top Chinese enterprises, the first survey conducted by it on Chinese non-state-owned enterprises with annual sales revenues of more than CNY 5 million.
Among a total of 100 firms on the list, Legend Holdings Limited and Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. rank among the top 3.
Legend Holdings heads the list with total assets of CNY 62.3 billion, sales revenues surging 107% to CNY 108.2 billion, and an above average profit of up to CNY 2.05 billion. The third one is Huawei, which has owned total assets of CNY 49 billion, sales revenues of CNY 40.5 billion with a growth of 39%, and a profit of CNY 4.07 billion coming to the fore.
Related Channels: China, Switching & Routing, WDM, VoIP, VPN, xDSL, Video, FTTP, Ethernet, Wireless, OSS/BSS, Security, Cable MSO, SDH/SONET, Storage

3Com: "Can we have more?"
3Com announced that it will begin negotiations with Huawei with the intent to increase 3Com's ownership stake in Huawei-3Com (H-3C).
3Com currently owns 51% of H-3C and recently began consolidating H-3C's financial results.
Under the terms of existing agreements, each party has the right, commencing on November 15, 2006, to initiate a bid process to purchase the equity interest in H-3C held by the other. These negotiations are intended to result in an agreement outside of the bid process.
"Our joint venture in China is a growing and profitable enterprise that we believe can be an important cornerstone of 3Com's future," said 3Com Chairman, Eric Benhamou. "We intend to negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement that increases 3Com's stake in H-3C and promotes H-3C's continued success."
Related Channels: China, Switching & Routing, VoIP, VPN, Security, Storage

3Com appoints Edgar Masri as CEO and Bob Mao as EVP
3Com Corporation announced that the company's Board of Directors has appointed Edgar Masri as the new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to replace Scott Murray who submitted his resignation effective at the close of business on August 17, 2006. The company also announced that it has hired Bob Mao as Executive Vice President of Corporate Development to manage 3Com's interests in its China-based joint venture with Huawei Technologies, Huawei-3Com (H-3C).
Masri, who is currently the Chief Operating Officer for Redline Communications, a broadband technology company, and Mao will join the company on August 18, 2006. In addition to his role as President and CEO, Masri will assume Murray's position as Chairman of H-3C. In his new role, Mao, a widely recognized and highly regarded networking executive, based in China, will be a member of H-3C's Board of Directors and report directly to Masri. Mao currently is Vice Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Pacific Telecommunications Council. Consistent with its plan to further leverage H-3C to help increase shareholder value, 3Com also today announced that it will begin negotiations with Huawei with the intent to increase 3Com's ownership stake in H-3C. 3Com currently owns 51 percent of H-3C and recently began consolidating H-3C's financial results. Under the terms of existing agreements, each party has the right, commencing on November 15, 2006, to initiate a bid process to purchase the equity interest in H-3C held by the other. These negotiations are intended to result in an agreement outside of the bid process.
"Our joint venture in China is a growing and profitable enterprise that we believe can be an important cornerstone of 3Com's future," said 3Com Chairman, Eric Benhamou. "We intend to negotiate a mutually beneficial agreement that increases 3Com's stake in H-3C and promotes H-3C's continued success."
Benhamou added, "After gaining additional insight into the significant time commitment and attention necessary to successfully manage H-3C, Scott Murray advised the Board that, with his young family, he was not able to commit to the extended time in China the venture requires. He therefore believes it is in 3Com's best interest for him to resign at this time, before negotiations begin. The Board respects his decision and thanks Scott for taking steps to bring the company closer to profitability.
"We are very fortunate to be able to recruit Edgar Masri to lead the company. Edgar has extensive networking industry knowledge, broad international experience and a track record of success throughout his career. Edgar brings unique skills and experiences that we believe will be of great value to 3Com."
Related Channels: Appointments

SingTel lands IP-VPN deal with Pakistan's Cybernet
SingTel has entered into an agreement with Cybernet of Pakistan to provide IP-VPN coverage in Karachi.
The carrier will offer its ConnectPlus IP-VPN service in Pakistan for the first time in response to growing demand from enterprises for secure and reliable communications.
"In South Asia, Pakistan is fast becoming a popular destination among the corporate world for back-end process operations," said Wong Soon Nam, SingTel VP of business marketing.
Cybernet is Pakistan's largest Internet and data network operator.
Cybernet COO Ansar ul Haq said his firm's partnership with SingTel is designed to "meet the requirements of customers who are looking for reliable, secure and high capacity IP-VPN access."
Related Channels: VPN

China Telecom expands core capacity
China Telecom, China's leading telecommunications provider, has expanded the core capacity of its ChinaNet Next Carrying Network (CN2), enabling CN2's Juniper Networks M- and T-series routers to support an increasing number of network edge devices and applications. Since November 2004, China Telecom has deployed Juniper routers as the only routing platforms in the national core of its CN2 project, continuing to build upon previous deployments as part of its CN2 expansion plan.
"CN2 is a completely separate network from the legacy 'ChinaNet' infrastructure," said Eric Yu, vice president of Greater China for Juniper Networks. "While China Telecom continues to operate its older network, the vision for CN2 requires more advanced and innovative technologies. Boosting the Juniper core routers with upgraded capacity allows CN2 to continue meeting China's fast growing need for next-generation IP infrastructure."
China Telecom created CN2 in 2004, utilizing Multi-protocol Label Switching (MPLS) to offer a wide variety of advanced IP services including Virtual Private Networking (VPN), high-quality IP voice and video streaming.
Related Channels: China

Cavium's technology enables cost-effective, high-performance SSL VPNs for SOHO, SME environments
California-based Cavium Networks, a world leader in security, network services and embedded processor solutions, Monday announced that NETGEAR, a worldwide provider of technologically advanced, branded networking products, has selected Cavium's NITROX Soho CN22X MIPS32® processor and SSL application toolkit to power the new NETGEAR ProSafe SSL VPN Concentrator for small to medium enterprises (SME). The NETGEAR ProSafe SSL VPN Concentrator provides secure, easy to use, multi- tunnel remote access connectivity for SME users without having to maintain IPsec VPNs or the accompanying client software. Cavium's NITROX Soho MIPS32 Broadband Communication processors have become the products of choice for OEM vendors delivering cost-effective, high-performance SOHO/SME gateways, routers and access points. Along with its OCTEON(TM) MIPS64® processors, Cavium Networks is enabling secure, intelligent functionality in a wide range of broadband and triple-play equipment for FTTX, Ethernet, xDSL, GPON/EPON, 802.11 a/b/g/n, VoIP and video applications.
SSL VPNs are the fastest growing segment of the remote access equipment market, with an annual average growth rate of over 40%. Until recently most SSL VPN products have been targeted at the Enterprise market because of the high cost required to achieve reasonable TCP and SSL performance. The NITROX Soho CN22X Broadband Communication Processor enables affordable, high- performance SSL VPN appliances by offloading full SSL protocol processing to integrated coprocessors, thereby driving SSL VPN connectivity to price sensitive SME and SOHO markets.
Related Channels: Chipsets, Security

German mobile service provider debitel offers 3G HSDPA data cards
debitel, the third largest mobile service provider in Germany with 8.9 million customers, has selected Sierra Wireless HSDPA wireless wide area network cards to provide customers with high speed HSDPA network access in Germany. The debitel SURF@go Card 850, now available through debitel‘s business sales channels and in debitel retail locations throughout Germany, is designed to provide wireless connectivity to e-mail, the Internet, and online corporate applications over 3G networks at data speeds comparable to wired broadband connections.
The debitel SURF@go Card 850 is a 3G wireless WAN Type II PC Card with a slim, unextended design, allowing users to conveniently store the card inside the laptop. Fully functional on HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE, and GPRS networks, the SURF@go Card utilizes the 2100 MHz UMTS frequency band common to European UMTS networks, offering average data rates of 500 to 800 kbps, with bursts over 1 Mbps on HSDPA networks. In areas where HSDPA or UMTS network coverage is not available, these cards will connect to EDGE and GSM/GPRS networks and enable international roaming on all four frequency bands (850, 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz) used worldwide.
"With the launch of HSDPA network service, our customers can now enjoy a wireless computing experience that is very similar to working on wired broadband, including the ability to access streaming audio and video and work within a VPN without sacrificing efficiency," said Martin Witt, head of product management for debitel.
Related Channels: Wireless, VPN

Huawei-3Com builds core backbone routing switch for Henan province post office
The Henan Province Post Office began a core backbone routing upgrade project to cope with the rapid development and demand of 'Green Cards', and enabled ATM services through the post office. Huawei-3Com eagerly accepted the chance to work with the Henan Post Office again, having previously deployed high performance switches in the Post Office's network.
The Henan Post Office needed a network which is able to support 1+1 hot backup and offer strong MPLS VPN functionality and high performance. The network also had to be easily upgraded to IPv6 to cope with future expansions and demands.
Huawei-3Com deployed its fifth generation NE40 series universal switching router at the network's core to provide a high-end router at the backbone network edge. The NE40 features wire-speed IP/MPLS forwarding capability for 2.5G POS interface. This provides the Henan Post Office with business upgrade and expansion capabilities to safeguard their IT investment. It also supports multiple QoS techniques and meets the requirements for multi-service IP carrier networks. At the same time, its 1+1 hot backup technology guarantees the steadiness and speed of the entire network.
Related Channels: China, Switching & Routing, VPN

Nextgen deploys Alcatel IP solution for Ethernet VPLS
Alcatel has been selected by Nextgen Networks, a specialist provider of high performance data services, to provide Australia's first national Ethernet VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) network which will offer Australian businesses the benefits of advanced virtual private network (VPN) technology. The Alcatel-based VPLS network allows businesses to operate quality-controlled voice, video and data services across an IP/MPLS-based infrastructure.
Customer benefits of Nextgen's VPLS service include: the flexibility of a single service at any location, with any-to-any connectivity in a national, secure, multipoint VPN (Virtual Private Network); support for the widest range of IT applications because the Layer 2 Ethernet VPN is protocol transparent to any Layer 3 IP application; customer control of how the network connects to a VPN and how the IP network layer is configured; support for real time and mission critical applications with packaged and standard offering of Quality of Service (QoS) profiles; and the lowest cost of ownership and operational simplicity with Ethernet connectivity and bundled pricing which is inclusive of most features.
The new network incorporates Alcatel's industry leading IP/MPLS-based solutions, including the Alcatel 7750 Service Router, across the seven capital cities of Australia, and setting a new market standard for enabling the delivery of profitable national Ethernet services and high-density aggregation over IP/MPLS-based networks.
Related Channels: Ethernet, VPN, Switching & Routing

BellSouth picks Hatteras' Mid-Band Ethernet solution
Research Triangle Park, N.C.-based Hatteras Networks, the Mid-Band Ethernet (MBE) service specialists, announced that BellSouth has selected its Ethernet Service Edge platforms to deliver BellSouth Mid-Band Ethernet service offerings. BellSouth chose Hatteras Networks' Ethernet platforms because of their patented service architecture that enables BellSouth to transparently deliver high-performance, fiber optic-grade Ethernet services over existing last-mile copper facilities.
"The Hatteras-based Mid-Band Ethernet solutions differentiate BellSouth® Metro Ethernet Service and allow BellSouth to continue to extend the benefits of Ethernet to small businesses and branch offices," said Nimesh Shah, senior director, data product management- Business Markets, BellSouth.
Capable of delivering up to 45 Mbps of symmetrical Ethernet service over existing last-mile copper, Hatteras Networks' solutions give carriers the flexibility required to create a rich service portfolio that includes: Ethernet private line, transparent LAN services, voice-over-IP (VoIP), Internet access, and virtual private networks (VPNs) with symmetrical service flexibility from 1Mbps to 45Mbps.
"BellSouth is a leader in applying innovative technology to address new market opportunities, and their Mid-band Ethernet services roll-out is another clear example of their commitment to maintain that leadership," said Kevin J. Sheehan, President and CEO of Hatteras Networks.
Related Channels: Ethernet, VoIP, VPN

$120 billion to be spent on VoIP services between 2005 and 2009 in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America; China to emerge as a major VoIP business market  
VoIP service revenue roughly doubled in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific from 2004 to 2005, and is expected to continue booming at least over the next 5 years, says Infonetics Research in its new VoIP Services report.
A combined $120 billion will be spent on VoIP services between 2005 and 2009 in the 3 regions.
"Businesses around the world are migrating to IP for increased functionality, greater flexibility, improved productivity, and the potential of growing revenue through better customer service," said Stéphane Téral, principal analyst at Infonetics Research.
"VoIP services continue to pick up fast in North America and in many parts of Europe, particularly in central and Eastern Europe, where small businesses have a strong appetite for business trunking, IP Centrex, and VoIP VPN services," Téral continued. "In Asia Pacific, VoIP service revenue about doubled that of North America and Europe in 2004, and continues at a blazing pace. China will likely emerge as a major VoIP business market in the coming years because the Chinese government is encouraging carriers to accelerate the migration to IP Centrex and IP PBX from their existing TDM Centrex."
Related Channels: VoIP, VPN, China

China Telecom Jiangsu picks Alcatel's IP routers
Alcatel Tuesday announced that Jiangsu Telecom, a subsidiary of China Telecom, has selected Alcatel's IP service routing solution to expand and optimize its metropolitan area network and broaden its IP-based data service portfolio. The Alcatel solution will enable Jiangsu Telecom to offer faster, highly reliable, and premium data services for consumers and enterprises across Jiangsu Province. The contract was won through Alcatel Shanghai Bell, Alcatel's flagship Chinese company.
Jiangsu Telecom will deploy the Alcatel 7750 Service Router (SR) in the province's four major cities, Nanjing, Wuxi, Yangzhou and Zhenjiang, where they anticipate fast-paced growth in demand from the consumer and business markets for advanced user-centric broadband services.
Upon completion of the project by the end of this year, Jiangsu Telecom will be able to deliver multiple services from a single IP network infrastructure, and with the Quality of Service (QoS) required to meet strict Service Level Agreements. Services include high speed Internet access for residential users as well as Layer 2 and 3 virtual private network (VPN) services for enterprises.
"This contract establishes Alcatel as the leading IP supplier to Jiangsu Telecom," said Gerard Dega, President of Alcatel Shanghai Bell. "The Alcatel IP solution has the capability to ensure non-stop service delivery which is critical to meet today's stringent market expectations. It also accelerates time to market through rapid service provisioning, ensuring service providers can move quickly to capture new market opportunities."
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, xDSL, VPN, China

Broadwing names Stephen Courter CEO
Broadwing Corporation Tuesday announced that the Company's Board of Directors has appointed Stephen E. Courter as the Chief Executive Officer for Broadwing Corporation, a leading supplier of innovative data, voice and media solutions for both enterprises and service providers. He will also join the Corporation's Board of Directors.
Mr. Courter brings over 20 years of telecommunications, financial and international experience to his new position. He led fiber-optic service provider Neon Communications, Inc., as CEO and Chairman until its merger with Globix Corporation in 2005. At Neon, he expanded the customer base, strengthened the balance sheet and guided the company through four consecutive years of steady revenue growth. Prior to Neon, Mr. Courter served as CEO of Enertel in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, and was also a Vice President for Sprint and Sprint International. Earlier in his career, he held positions with IBM and KPMG after serving as a Captain in the United Sates Army, a tour that included service during Operation Desert Storm. He is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University and holds an MBA from George Washington University.
"We believe Mr. Courter's knowledge and leadership approach will enable Broadwing to build on its reputation for providing effective communications solutions. He has a proven record of success and significant experience in the telecommunications industry. He has demonstrated that he is a customer-focused team player able to grow revenue and improve operations," said Donald R. Walker, chair of the Board's Nominating and Governance Committee.
"I look forward to working with the entire Broadwing team to help our company to capitalize on the opportunities I see ahead of us," said Mr. Courter.
Mr. Courter will assume his duties as CEO immediately. He succeeds Dr. David Huber, Chairman of the Board, who transitioned out of the CEO role earlier this year. Mr. Courter will be supported by the senior management team that has operated Broadwing in the interim, a team comprised of Scott Widham, President of Sales & Marketing; Lynn D. Anderson, Chief Financial Officer; and Kim Larsen, Senior Vice President, M&A/Corporate Development and General Counsel.
Related Channels: WDM, VoIP, VPN, xDSL, Appointments

Belgacom picks Alcatel's IP solution for traffic aggregation
Alcatel announced that Belgacom, the incumbent operator in Belgium, has selected Alcatel's IP solution for traffic aggregation to support the mass roll-out of triple play services throughout the country.
Under the terms of this contract, Alcatel will provide the equipment and network & service management for a nationwide network that will deliver high quality voice, data and video services to the Belgian residential customers.
Last year, Belgacom selected Alcatel's IP portfolio as the foundation for its nationwide BiLAN© Ethernet VPN service, offering advanced Virtual Private LAN Service (VPLS) and IP-VPN services to businesses. Now, with plans to make triple play available to its entire residential subscriber base, Belgacom has again selected Alcatel's IP portfolio to deliver bundled triple play services including high-speed Internet, digital TV services and voice over IP.
Related Channels: xDSL, VoIP, Video, Ethernet, VPN

Chunghwa Telecom promotes mobile VPN services to business users
Chunghwa Telecom (CHT) has been actively marketing its MVPN (mobile virtual private network) services to enterprises, a focus of its mobile communication business operation this year, with a revenue goal of NT$13.0 billion (US$396 million), according to the company.
CHT's MVPN services generated revenue of NT$10.0 billion last year, accounting for 13.5% of total revenues from mobile communications, the company indicated. This year, the proportion of targeted revenues will rise to 17.1%, the company noted.
As part of its MVPN services, CHT has offered low-power mobile communication services to several manufacturers of semiconductor and TFT-LCD panels in science parks as well as hospitals around Taiwan, according to CHT. The low-power service is tailored not to cause electromagnetic interference with high-precision equipment and instruments, according to CHT. Manufacturers using such services include Chi Mei Optoelectronics (CMO), Corning, Quanta Display and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), CHT noted.
To meet the demand for preventing leakage of confidential business information, CHT is planning to offer customized low-power handsets without phone cameras and data communication functions, the company pointed out.
Related Channels: Wireless, VPN

Infinera, Internet2 team up
Internet2 and Infinera have signed a wide-ranging agreement that will support the development of next-generation Internet technology with more intelligence, bandwidth and capabilities, including the testing and deployment of 40 to 100 Gigabit per second (Gbps) services. Through the agreement, Internet2 and Infinera plan to collaborate to pursue development projects that will drive leading-edge network capability for the national research and academic community; make new services and applications available to the worldwide community of Internet users; and help to make possible revolutionary Internet applications. Key areas of technology development will include: lab and network-wide tests of super-lambda services including 40 and 100 Gigabit Ethernet service; advanced network service management and delivery leveraging GMPLS technology; and advanced virtual private network (VPN) services based on Layer One VPNs.
Related Channels: Ethernet, VPN

AT&T-BellSouth merger approved by stockholders and expected to be completed this fall
Stockholders of AT&T Inc. voted overwhelmingly at a special meeting Friday to approve the issuance of common stock to BellSouth shareholders in connection with AT&T's acquisition of BellSouth Corporation. The proposal was approved by more than 98% of the votes cast.
Earlier today, shareholders of BellSouth voted to approve the acquisition at a special meeting in Atlanta. Approximately 97% of the shares that were voted approved the merger.
"We appreciate that stockholders of both companies recognize the benefits the proposed merger offers for customers, for the company and for the communities we serve," said AT&T Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Edward E. Whitacre Jr. "And we're gratified with the regulatory approvals we have received to date. We are confident that the remaining state and federal agencies will also recognize that the merger will create a company that is better positioned to deliver the types of next-generation communications services customers want and deserve."
In addition to approvals by AT&T and BellSouth stockholders, the two companies have now received clearance from regulators in all three foreign countries requiring a review as well as from 14 of the 18 U.S. states where they have filed for approval.
Reviews continue in four other states and at the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Communications Commission. The companies expect to complete the merger this fall.
Together, under one brand, AT&T, BellSouth and Cingular would be better able to bring residential and business customers innovative wireless, video, voice and Internet services. It would do so by leading the industry evolution to Internet Protocol (IP) technologies and creating a single wireless and wireline network that would offer communications and entertainment services that customers can use where, when and how they wish.
Consumers who are seeking a real alternative to dominant cable companies should see faster deployment of next-generation video services as a result of AT&T's groundbreaking entry into IPTV and the unparalleled research and development work under way at AT&T Labs, coupled with BellSouth's extensive deployment of fiber networks.
Business customers in the southeastern United States and across the country stand to benefit from the expertise and innovation of AT&T Labs, as well as the combination of AT&T's state-of-the-art national and international networks and advanced services with BellSouth's local exchange and broadband distribution platforms and expertise.
Whitacre pledged to maintain BellSouth's current level of charitable giving and its historic position as a prominent corporate citizen in the Southeast, just as it has done in the communities where AT&T has traditionally operated.
"AT&T has long supported local communities and the initiatives that are important to them, whether it's in the area of philanthropy, community involvement or economic development," he said. "We will continue BellSouth's historic levels of giving and its community activities throughout its nine- state area."
Related Channels: Wireless, Video, FTTP, xDSL, VoIP, VPN, Mergers & Acquisitions

SEKO Worldwide picks Broadwing's MPLS VPN
SEKO Worldwide, a global freight transportation and logistics provider, has chosen Broadwing to provide a comprehensive suite of business-critical communications services that include a corporate MPLS virtual private network (VPN) with Internet access, collocation facilities and remote data protection for disaster recovery.
"By using the latest technology to make information easy to access, SEKO will continue to serve its customers with the best possible solutions," said Scott Widham, co-CEO of Broadwing. "We are proud to enable SEKO in their continued efforts to provide innovative, first-class transportation services."
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, VPN

Huawei has broad product portfolio to meet needs for convergence
Recently, global telecom companies have been increasingly merging their businesses to meet the needs for convergence, such as the recent Nokia-Siemens deal, the Alcatel-Lucent deal, the Cisco-Scientific Atlantic deal and the earlier Ericsson-Marconi deal.
However, Huawei is not worried because it had anticipated the convergence trend early and already prepared with a very broad product portfolio. Huawei, established 18 years ago, is offering a broad product portfolio including wireless, fixed-line, IP, optical and data networks, applications and software for value-added services and handsets and wireless terminals.
Huawei's telecoms equipment have already been sold in more than a 100 countries and serve 28 of the world's top 50 operators.
Related Channels: China, Wireless, VoIP, Video, FTTP, Ethernet, OSS/BSS, Security, VPN,  Switching & Routing, WDM, xDSL, Cable MSO, SDH/SONET

etisalat picks Juniper routers for triple play
Juniper Networks, Inc. announced that etisalat in the United Arab Emirates has deployed Juniper Networks E- and M-series routers for its next generation, multiservice network. The Juniper routers will enable etisalat to reliably and efficiently support current and next-generation voice, video and data communications services for over five million customers in the United Arab Emirates.
etisalat is one of the UAE's leading telecommunications providers, and previously installed Juniper M-series routers to support its Internet backbone and international exchange points. With the addition of Juniper's E-series Broadband Services Routers and M320 routers, etisalat has created one of the first true multiservice network cores in the Middle East. The converged IP/MPLS architecture provides a scalable, intelligent network, enabling etisalat to deliver new Triple Play services such as IPTV, while supporting existing Internet, ATM, Frame Relay and mobile IP services.
The Juniper routers support a wide range of advanced service offerings, including video on demand, MPLS VPNs and Virtual Private LAN Services (VPLS).
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, Video, VPN

Sanef Telecoms deploys Atrica's carrier Ethernet system
Paris-based Sanef Telecoms, a business unit of motorway leader Sanef Group and an innovative regional telecommunications operator, has deployed California-based Atrica’s Carrier Ethernet Systems. Sanef Telecoms will leverage the solutions to deliver customized, high-speed and very high-speed communications services to local authorities, public institutions and businesses situated near its motorways in France, and to expand its wholesale services business. The new state-of-the-art communications infrastructure will allow the company to cost-effectively, rapidly and reliably fulfill the burgeoning demand for connectivity among businesses and other institutions that span multiple metros throughout France, and to provide an alternative to existing wholesale service providers. The network’s scalability, reliability and low cost structure will strengthen Sanef Telecom’s competitive position against incumbent European service providers.
With a 3855 km fiber optic network that connects the greater Paris region with the major cities of northern and eastern France, Sanef Telecoms delivers services such as high-speed Internet, Ethernet VPNs, video surveillance, video conferencing and IP telephone to business parks and industrial estates.
Related Channels: Ethernet, VPN, Video, VoIP

Aventail upgrades its SSL VPN remote access platform
Seattle-based Aventail announced that Aventail ST2, the latest version of its leading SSL VPN remote access platform, will be available in August. Aventail ST2 makes it easier than ever for organizations to control remote access with unique new features in three key areas that detect the identity and security of the end point, protect applications through granular access controls, and connect users securely to applications.
Network security threats are driving IT to focus on the promise of Network Access Control (NAC), but actually implementing it on an enterprise-wide scale is another matter. Experts agree that providing secure access control for remote and traveling employees, third-party consultants and contractors, and guest users should be one of the first steps in an organization’s NAC initiative, and that an SSL VPN-based appliance is best for that. Building on Aventail’s award-winning SSL VPN platform, Aventail ST2 introduces new features that make it the leading remote access controller on the market.
Aventail ST2 SSL VPNs secure access from devices running Windows, Windows Mobile, Linux, and Macintosh, and enable complete reach to all network resources with granular policy and bi-directional access controls.
Related Channels: Security, VPN

Chunghwa Telecom tests Caspian Media Controllers
Caspian, the leading provider of multimedia traffic control solutions for IP and multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) networks, announced that Chunghwa Telecom Co. Ltd., the largest integrated telecommunications operator in Taiwan, is testing Caspian Media Controllers for deployment in its new all-IP network. Applications currently running over the Media Controllers at Chunghwa's Telecommunications Lab include video, voice over IP (VoIP), gaming, MPLS integration and IP virtual private networks (VPNs). The Caspian solution will provide IP flow control in the aggregation layer of Chunghwa's network for guaranteeing quality of service (QoS) levels and ensuring a rich multimedia experience for its large subscriber base.
Chunghwa Telecom offers a full suite of telecommunications services, with fixed, GSM and data networks throughout Taiwan and offshore islands. Chunghwa recently announced its intention to invest up to $4 billion dollars to upgrade its current network to an all-IP network infrastructure for its 20-plus million subscribers. With an emphasis on IP multimedia entertainment, Chunghwa selected Caspian Media Controllers to optimize its IP services while minimizing the cost associated with the additional demands for guaranteed bandwidth.
"Chunghwa Telecom has taken a major step in accelerating the evolution of IP networking with its goal to invest in an all-IP network," said Brad Wurtz, Caspian president and chief executive officer. "We look forward to participating in Chunghwa's innovative process as it raises the bar for multimedia Internet communications."
Related Channels: Video, VoIP, VPN, Switching & Routing

China Netcom selects Alcatel's service router for triple play in Shanxi and Shandong
Alcatel announced that Shandong and Shanxi Netcom, two subsidiaries of China Netcom, have selected Alcatel's IP solution to expand and optimize their metropolitan networks across the Shandong and Shanxi provinces and broaden their IP-based data service portfolio. The Alcatel solution will enable the two service providers to offer triple play services, including voice, data and video, as well as faster, highly reliable Internet access services for consumers and enterprises. The two contracts were won through Alcatel Shanghai Bell, Alcatel's flagship Chinese company.
Under the terms of the contracts, Alcatel will deploy its industry-leading 7750 Service Router (SR) in Qingdao, the major city in Shandong Province, and in Changzhi and Jincheng in Shanxi province. Upon completion of the projects in August 2006, residential customers of Shandong Netcom and Shanxi Netcom can enjoy high quality triple play and advanced Internet access services. Enterprise users will also have access to Service Level Agreement (SLA)-based networking services like Layer 2 Virtual Private LAN service (VPLS) and Layer 3 virtual private networks (VPN), which are provided with IP/MPLS Quality of Service.
Related Channels: China, Switching & Routing, VoIP, Video, VPN

Sanmina-SCI intros VPN/Firewall appliance
Sanmina-SCI Corporation, a leading global electronics manufacturing services (EMS) company, announced a low-cost, market-ready 2-Gigabit and 4-Gigabit VPN/Firewall appliance.
The 2-Gigabit and 4-Gigabit VPN/Firewall appliance meets the growing demand for small and large enterprise organizations to
secure their Gigabit networks at a fraction of the current market prices. The 2-Gigabit and 4-Gigabit VPN/Firewall solution is now available to OEMs to either brand or incorporate into their own systems and programs.
"Sanmina-SCI's security solution helps OEMs hit the Gigabit security window of opportunity without the typical development risks and costs," said Naresh Nigam, Senior Vice President of New Technologies and Ventures at Sanmina-SCI. "This solution uses entirely new silicon and provides an immediate means to implement LAN-speed security at a fraction of the cost of other Gigabit security products. OEMs are now able to sell more security products in more places in their customers' networks."
Related Channels: Security, VPN

Iomega to acquire CSCI
Iomega Corporation, a global leader in data protection, has reached a definitive agreement to acquire CSCI, Inc., a San-Diego-based managed services and outsourced IT company. CSCI is the 2006 winner of the Juniper Networks, Inc. "Managed Services Provider of the Year" award and the creator of OfficeScreen® services, a suite of managed virtual private networks (VPNs) that provide small to medium-sized businesses with secure wide-area networks that efficiently and economically link offices and remote workers.
"With the addition of OfficeScreen, Iomega is taking the first step toward becoming a managed services company," said Jonathan Huberman, Chief Executive Officer, Iomega Corporation. "Small businesses need simple, secure, easy-to-use networks from a company they trust. The debut of Iomega OfficeScreen services will expand on Iomega's 25-year history of dependable data security products for SMBs and position the company to capitalize on the growing managed services market."
Currently hundreds of small and medium-sized businesses in the U.S. utilize OfficeScreen as a secure, outsourced network security and VPN service that does not require upfront hardware expenses or setup costs, an appealing combination for small businesses that don't have dedicated IT resources or large IT budgets. OfficeScreen's firewall/VPN, Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and IPSec (IP security) bundles create wide area networks that connect remote offices and workers to applications and data at a company's headquarters, while countering security threats from hackers, worms and viruses across a company's entire network.
Related Channels: Storage, Security, VPN, Mergers & Acquisitions

ZTE to build 9,000km optical fiber network for Cadafe in Venezuela
China's ZTE will start building a 9,000km, nationwide optical fiber network for Venezuela's state electricity firm Cadafe in September.
Initially, Cadafe will be the sole user of the new US$312M network, which will support business processes. Later the company could opt to offer services such as broadband internet, cable television and telephone to the general public.
ZTE will have 12-18 months to complete the network.
Related Channels: Video, VoIP, VPN, xDSL, WDM, China

VPN market and managed security market to hit $29B and $8B respectively in 2009
The VPN services market took in a whopping $23 billion in 2005 and is expected to grow another 22% to hit $29 billion in 2009. Meanwhile, the managed security services market grew to nearly $5 billion in 2005 and is forecast to jump 68% to $8 billion in 2009.
Both markets are increasingly lucrative due to increased worldwide deployment of MPLS and the complexity of deploying VPN and security solutions, says Infonetics Research in its latest market size and forecast report, VPN and Security Services.
"The number and variety of attacks affecting most organizations is increasing at an alarming rate, and the technologies needed to effectively combat all of the possible attacks are simply too difficult for many organizations to deploy themselves," said Jeff Wilson, principal analyst for VPNs and security at Infonetics Research. "In particular, attacks aimed at specific types of content (from business applications like Oracle and SAP to instant messenger traffic) are wreaking havoc on organizations-and not just big companies; companies of all sizes are being affected."
Report Highlights
- Every year through 2009, IPSec revenue will decline, while MPLS, MPLS/IPSec, and SSL revenue will rise
- 77% of VPN service revenue came from site-to-site VPNs, remote access VPNs 23% in 2005
- In 2005, almost half of managed security service revenue came from large organizations, around a third from medium, and 21% from small
The report tracks annual VPN service revenue by service type, technology, remote access vs. site-to-site, intranet vs. extranet, and organization size, and tracks security services by service type and organization size. Market size and forecasts are presented for North America, EMEA, Asia Pacific, CALA, and worldwide, and the North American forecast includes US and Canada breakouts.
Related Channels: VPN, Security

KDDI to launch IP-VPN in Hanoi
KDDI has signed a service agreement with Vietnam Datacommunication Company (VDC) to jointly establish IP-VPN infrastructure in Hanoi.
Under the agreement, the two companies will provide the KDDI-branded IP-VPN service by October.
KDDI provides support for its international data transmission service through the Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City branch offices of its local subsidiary in Vietnam, KDDI Vietnam Corporation. Beginning with the International IP-VPN Service, KDDI plans to expand communications services between Japan and Vietnam in order to support the local operations of Japanese companies.
Related Channels: VoIP, VPN

Indonesia's XL picks Juniper routers for MPLS-based VPNs
Juniper Networks announced that PT Excelcomindo Pratama Tbk (XL), one of Indonesia's leading communications providers, has deployed the M-series routers to improve the performance of its MPLS-based VPN services and create a solid network foundation for the delivery of advanced services such as 3G Wireless. XL chose the M-series for its industry-leading performance and reliability, and its unique ability to support multiple levels of quality of service, which will enable XL to guarantee superior service level agreements for critical voice, video and VPN traffic.
XL, a subsidiary company of Telekom Malaysia, provides cellular mobile voice and data services, as well as fixed-line offerings including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services and wholesale Internet connectivity to local Internet Service Providers.
Juniper Networks M-series multiservice routers have been deployed in the largest IP networks for the past eight years, establishing a track record of stability, reliability and scalability. The M-series supports the industry's most comprehensive VPN portfolio, combined with the ability to simultaneously support existing and emerging Layer 2 and Layer 3 services.
Related Channels: VoIP, VPN, Switching & Routing

Cedarcom deploys Juniper routing and security solutions
Juniper Networks announced Cedarcom, the leading Lebanese telecommunications provider, is deploying a comprehensive Juniper Networks solution as the first phase of a major network upgrade across Lebanon. Cedarcom is deploying Juniper Networks E- and M-series routing platforms, the SDX-300 Service Deployment System, and the Integrated Security Gateway (ISG) series firewall and virtual private network (FW/VPN) systems with Intrusion Detection and Prevention (IDP).
The routing platforms, in conjunction with the SDX, create an agile, open and customizable network, with the scalability and flexibility to accommodate new and advanced services at scale. Cedarcom is also using Juniper's unique Dynamic Threat Mitigation solution, which integrates Juniper's powerful routing platforms, Intrusion Detection and Prevention (IDP) capability and SDX Service Deployment System, to provide real-time protection from network attacks, and to provide immediate assistance to users who have been affected. The security solutions protect Cedarcom's corporate network infrastructure against worms, trojans, spyware and other emerging threats, as well as application layer threats.
Cedarcom will extend and scale IP connectivity to provide a diverse range of services including video and data services to its customers throughout Lebanon. The network also serves as an IP backbone for the entire country of Lebanon, to be primarily used for the deployment of DSL services.
Related Channels: Switching & Routing, Security, VPN, xDSL

China Netcom to expand co-operation with Telefonica
China Netcom, the country's second-largest fixed-line carrier, will expand its co-operation with Telefonica, the largest Spanish telecom company.
The two companies will work on projects including the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, joint sourcing, mobile communications and the development of international markets.
The announcement was made yesterday by Guan Ruoqi, managing director of China Netcom's international business, at the China-Spain telecom transformation seminar in Beijing.
"Globalization is a pillar strategy for us, together with the Olympics and our broadband strategy, so the alliance with Telefonica will be very helpful," said Guan.
Telefonica is the second-largest stakeholder in China Netcom Group's listing arm, CNC Hong Kong, and has the right to boost its holdings to 9.9% and expand its presence on CNC Hong Kong's board from one to two members.
Guan said the two companies had realized interconnection of their Internet networks, had launched a broadband Internet connection service, and was talking about MPLS VPN, an important technology to run fixed and mobile services on a converged network.
They will also work on call centres and satellite broadcasting for the Beijing Olympic Games, in which China Netcom is an official sponsor.
Joint procurement is also being planned to cut costs and increase efficiency for both companies.
Telefonica yesterday also signed memorandums of understanding with the top two Chinese telecom equipment makers, Huawei Technology and ZTE.
Telefonica is a rare case of a foreign telecom company being allowed to hold a stake in a Chinese telecom carrier, a market still highly regulated.
The partnership allows Telefonica to extend its reach into the world's largest telecom market in terms of subscribers.
Francisco Ros, Spain's secretary of state for the telecommunications and information society, said at the seminar his country was the gateway to Europe and Latin America.
He added that the link-up would be highly complementary for both companies.
Telefonica is the largest operator in markets like the Czech Republic and most of Latin America.
Its presence and experience in international markets is expected to prove valuable to companies like China Netcom, which hopes to expand to markets outside China and run its own mobile business.
Related Channels: China, Wireless, VoIP, Video, VPN

SafeNet upgrades QuickSec IPSec VPN product line
SafeNet, Inc. announced a major upgrade of the industry-leading QuickSec IPSec VPN product line. Today’s release of a pair of complementary security products QuickSec 4.0 Client Toolkit and QuickSec 4.0 Server Toolkit enables the large installed base of QuickSec OEM developers to add IKEv2 to the full range of enterprise security gateways, enterprise-class PBX systems, desktop VPN clients, and mobile VPN platforms in use today.
QuickSec is the most broadly used professional-quality security development toolkit for IPSec gateways, appliances, and software applications in the world, with advanced levels of protection, reliability, and performance mandated by OEM customers and industry standards. This major release of QuickSec 4.0 Client and Server Toolkits is the first simultaneous release by SafeNet of compatible client-side and server-side development tools implementing the most current IPSec security features like IKEv2, stateful firewall, IPv6/IPv4 support, 64-bit platform support, and pre-integration with high-speed security processors for hardware acceleration.
“QuickSec 4.0 is the ideal toolkit for protecting networking applications that require robust VPN security,” said Henk Pruim, vice president and general manager of SafeNet’s OEM Networking Division. “With QuickSec 4.0, SafeNet customers benefit from a proven software security system that has been optimized to provide robust client and server-side IPSec and IKEv2 security for networking OEMs. The QuickSec Toolkits have been designed to support a wide array of hardware acceleration options to provide our customers with a complete high-performance hardware/software security system.”
Related Channels: Security, VPN

NetMotion's mobile VPN achieves certification through Microsoft's Mobile2Market program
NetMotion Wireless, the industry leader among Mobile VPN solution providers, announced that Mobility XE, the company's flagship product, has achieved certification through Microsoft's Mobile2Market program. Mobility XE is now the first and only VPN to be certified by Microsoft as a "Designed for Windows Mobile" solution for Windows Mobile 5.0 Smartphone.
"Thanks to advancements such as Windows Mobile 5.0, mobile computing is becoming a common part of mainstream enterprise IT practices," said Bob Hunsberger, president and CEO of NetMotion Wireless. "But true enterprise mobile computing is about more than email and the internet - it's about reliable access to enterprise applications, protected by rock-solid security and supported by centralized management that incorporates every device type an organization uses. That's our mission as well and it's what we provide through Mobility XE."
Related Channels: Wireless, OSS/BSS, VPN

THUS launches IP Exchange Lines
As from today, businesses can benefit from increased IP telephony performance and cost savings, following the launch of THUS' IP Exchange Lines, a service that will deliver IP connectivity from a company's internal voice over IP (VoIP) system to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The service will provide new enhanced external communications capabilities to businesses, as well as greater network scalability and a reduction in expenditure on hardware and calls.
Connectivity to the PSTN from a company's voice network has traditionally been through analogue or ISDN channels. However, as more and more businesses move to converged IP networks, demand for connections through IP to the PSTN has increased. By integrating THUS's IP Exchange Lines with a VoIP solution, external voice calls can be delivered across IP to the PSTN, reducing the amount of hardware an organisation has to deploy. The service is available to businesses which already have, or are looking to deploy, a VoIP solution over THUS' next generation network MPLS IP VPN, National Ethernet or High Speed Internet over Ethernet service.
Related Channels: VoIP, VPN, Ethernet

China's Huawei ramps up growth in Asia Pacific
Huawei Technologies Co Ltd. ("Huawei"), a leader in providing next generation telecommunications network solutions for operators around the world, announced that it expects contract sales in Asia Pacific to grow by 55% to hit USD2 billion in 2006.
The company announced that its contract sales in Asia, excluding China, Japan South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, is expected to jump to more than US$2 billion this year from $1.29 billion in 2005 as it continues to focus on further deepening its relationship with existing and potential key customers in the region.
Huawei has been steadily expanding its operations outside of China since 1996 and has a presence in 13 countries across Asia Pacific, with its products deployed in over 20 countries in the region. In 2005, the company's global international sales hit US$4.8 billion, which exceeded domestic sales for the first time, accounting for 57 percent of its total contract sales of US$8.2 billion. This trend is expected to continue as part of Huawei's internationalization strategy and Asia Pacific remains one of the most important markets as Huawei expands globally.
"With our vision to enrich people's life through communications, Huawei is committed to bringing excellent services and innovative technologies to the Asia-Pacific market," said Mr. Liu Jianfeng, Vice-president, Huawei Technologies Asia Pacific. "Asia Pacific is one of the fastest growing regions in the world for us and we remain committed to this region through continued investments in the areas of R&D and customer-centric product development. We currently work with over 150 Asian telecom operators and believe that our broad and comprehensive portfolio of leading solutions and products provides us with a strong competitive edge."

Unilever picks NetMotion Wireless
NetMotion Wireless, Inc., a mobile VPN solution provider, announced that Unilever plc has selected NetMotion Wireless Mobility XE and Mobility XE Policy Management to secure and enable Unilever field sales representatives around the world. Mobility XE will provide thousands of Unilever field representatives (each of whom will use a Windows Mobile 5.0 device provided by HP) with secure, uninterrupted access to enterprise applications over a wide variety of wireless and wired networks worldwide. Mobility XE met the rigorous demands of Unilever's security policies, including support for RSA SecurID two-factor authentication. In addition, Mobility XE enables line-of-business applications to run effectively wherever and whenever business is transacted.
Unilever depends on its field sales team to secure orders for products from wholesale and retail outlets across Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa. The sales team requires secure and reliable communications in order to access mission-critical information in real-time and submit sales orders for immediate processing while on the road. Unilever evaluated a wide range of architecture alternatives to replace its existing end-of-life solution, ultimately selecting NetMotion Mobility XE for its high performance and reliability levels, Policy Management, and track record of successful large-scale implementations.
Related Channels: Wireless, VPN

Agilent's multiservices tester validates IPTV service delivery in multivendor MPLS/GMPLS network trial
Agilent Technologies verified that its N2X multiservices test solution validated the performance of IPTV service delivery over the largest multilayer GMPLS/MPLS test network ever constructed. The multivendor interoperability test was conducted at Isocore Internetworking Lab and will be showcased this week at the iPOP 2006 public demonstration.
Working with more than 10 leading MPLS and GMPLS vendors at Isocore, Agilent N2X supported the functional and performance verification of the IPTV service delivery over MPLS and MPLS/GMPLS interworking. The Agilent N2X is the industry's only multiport solution that was able to emulate the optical control plane to establish the GMPLS network -- as well as verify MPLS-enabled services such as multicast VPN, VPLS and IPTV -- all in one platform.
N2X's IPTV channel-zapping application and comprehensive MPLS test capabilities were used together to compare IPTV service delivery across the two forefront infrastructures that service providers are considering to deploy IPTV services: multicast Layer 3 VPNs (mVPN) and hierarchical virtual private LAN services (H-VPLS). The real-time graphical representation of channel join/leave latency enabled vendors to measure the performance of the underlying network and its ability to maintain the service Quality of Experience (QoE) using N2X.
Related Channels: Test, Video, VPN 

Next Generation Networks a Key Growth Strategy for Asia Pacific
Huawei sees the future drivers of its business as being next-generation networks (NGN) for both fixed and wireless carriers. The company has made significant traction in this area as evidenced by its contract wins with the likes of TT&T in Thailand, TM & TIME in Malaysia, PTCL & TELIPS in Pakistan and JTB in Brunei. Huawei also won four 3G contracts in Asia Pacific, including B-Mobile in Brunei, Celecom in Malaysia, NTS in Indonesia and Econet in New Zealand. With convergence being a key development in the telecommunications industry, Huawei recognizes that operators are increasingly looking for vendors that have a comprehensive, end-to-end portfolio of products and solutions. This continues to be a key strength and unique offering that Huawei offers to carriers.
Mr. Liu added, "As we continue to deliver even more efficient and responsive services as well as customized products and solutions to our customers, Asia Pacific not only represents a market opportunity but also serves as an important resource base. To date, 68 percent of our 2,200 employees in Asia Pacific are local hires, excluding the over 1000 local engineers based at our R&D institute in Bangalore, India."
Global Launch of New Datacomm Products, 3G Handsets & Videoconferencing Solutions
At CommunicAsia 2006, Huawei rolled out the industry's first carrier-class metro Ethernet switches that will help operators better serve their customers. Huawei's new Quidway CX series switches represents a next generation in convergence and access switches where some of the key benefits include delivering increased protection, greater reliability, high-level of security and easy management in addressing service requirements for NGN, 3G, broadband access, triple play and large account private line access over IP networks.
Huawei also introduced an integrated video and audio conferencing system solution designed specifically to enhance the business competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMBs). The new solutions include Huawei's high definition group video terminals ViewPoint8066 and ViewPoint8033, videophone ViewPoint8220 and ViewPoint8210, which incorporate built-in Multipoint Control Unit (MCU) functions that reduces operational costs for SMBs.
In the area of wireless terminals, Huawei launched the world's smallest HSDPA USB modem E220 and as an extension of its focus in the 3G market, is introducing seven 3G handsets - UMTS dual mode handsets U528, U526 and CDMA handsets C2285, C2205, C2281, C5300, C3300. To date, Huawei supplies 3G terminal products to customers in over 70 countries including China, Sweden, Portugal, Russia, India, Brazil, UK, Italy, Spain, France and Hong Kong.
Related Channels: Wireless, Video, VoIP, VPN, Switching & Routing, China

Harmonic intros wireless backhaul solution
Harmonic Inc. introduced an ultra high capacity FLXLink™ wireless backhaul solution that allows operators to efficiently and securely transport digital voice, data and video content to/from the wireless edge. FLXLink addresses the need for increased wireless bandwidth as consumers around the world increasingly rely on mobile multimedia applications to support an always connected, on-the-go lifestyle. The new FLXLink solution provides up to 10 times the service carrying capacity of the FLXLink T1/E1 system, offering more choice and flexibility in backhauling GSM, GPRS, 3G, WiFi and other wireless services.
In addition to carrying today's wireless traffic, the ability to incrementally scale capacity in order to carry emerging high-speed interactive and video-based services is essential. Services are now being deployed that require more bandwidth, such as metropolitan WiFi networks providing wireless Internet access for an entire city. The new FLXLink with eight T1/E1 connections and a gigabit Ethernet port is an ideal solution to carry these advanced mobile applications. As with the other FLXLink CWDM-based products—a family which includes 100-Mbps and 1-Gbps systems as well as a version offering four T1/E1 connections and a Fast Ethernet (100-Mbps) port—the new FLXLink system is a flexible, modular and reliable solution. The FLXLink products are used to provide a variety of services including backhaul, VPN, high-speed Internet and PBX interconnect.
Related Channels: Wireless, Ethernet, WDM, VPN, Cable MSO

Check Point unveils VPN-1 UTM Edge with built-in ADSL modem
Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., the worldwide leader in securing the Internet, announced the immediate availability of Check Point VPN-1® UTM Edge with built-in ADSL modem, an all-in-one appliance that simplifies security deployment without decreasing the level of security or manageability for companies with branch offices. Check Point VPN-1 UTM Edge with ADSL includes all the necessary components for remote offices by consolidating comprehensive security, ADSL, WiFi, and print server support to enable businesses to get remote offices up and running quickly with the same security and complete network protection as core offices and data centers are throughout the organization. Complete network protection is enabled via Cooperative Enforcement(TM) with the Check Point Integrity endpoint security solution. This allows administrators to enforce endpoint compliance with corporate security policies before granting access onto the branch office network.
"Too often, people think easy-to-use means less secure or less manageable," said Dave Burton, director of product marketing for Check Point Software Technologies. "Customers of VPN-1 UTM Edge can testify that simple deployment, centralized management, consistent security, network access control and scalability can be synonymous with ease-of-use and can help organizations secure a common weak link in the enterprise network chain -- the branch office. VPN-1 UTM Edge has a strong history of combining enterprise-class security and plug-and-play simplicity at remote sites and continues that reputation with its latest enhancements."
Related Channels: Security, VPN, xDSL

Highlights of Huawei's Annual Financial Report for 2005
- Total revenue and profit of Huawei were USD 5.982 billion and USD 681 million respectively. Their compound annual growth rate (CAGR) reached 27% and 28% in the past five years. Its operating cash flow topped USD 708 million, up 78.8% year on year.
- International sales USD 4.8 billion in 2005, 58% of its total revenue. This was the first time that its international sales exceeded domestic sales.
- Huawei will continue focusing on all IP and fixed-mobile convergence solutions in 2006.
- The company will boost its management and organization reforms, improve marketing strategy, supply chain and products services and increase investments in R&D.
Related Channels: China, Wireless, Video, VoIP, Switching & Routing, WDM, xDSL, VPN, FTTP, Ethernet, OSS/BSS, Security,  Cable MSO, SDH/SONET

Huawei-3Com builds "Roof of the World" backbone network for Qingzang Railway
The Qingzang Railway was completed in 2005 connecting Xining in Qinghai Province to the Tibetan capital of Lhasa. It is the first railway board in China to use MPLS VPN technology for its backbone network integrating data, video and IP voice services in a unified platform. Huawei-3Com is the first network services provider to conduct a major networking project at such a high altitude and over such rough terrain, with over 80 percent of the railway at an altitude of more than 4,000 meters and over half of it laid on permafrost.
The natural environment and climate brings up a number of unique challenges to conducting network operations, engineering tests and overall project implementation. Huawei-3Com was chosen because of its security, reliability, stability, high efficiency and ease of management and control. Huawei-3Com’s NE80 core router, a high-end router oriented to the carr