3Com Stacks Up VOIP

MARLBOROUGH, Mass. -- 3Com Corporation today introduced the industry's first stackable LAN (local area network) switch designed specifically to address small-to-medium enterprise customers' growing need for robust security and support of Voice over IP (VoIP) and other convergence applications. The new 3Com(R) Switch 4500 family combines standards-based security for user authentication; support for the new TippingPoint(TM) X505, the first integrated security platform built upon Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) technology; and dynamic "plug-and-play" support for multiple vendors' VoIP services.

"Stackable switches are back in vogue and have become part of the security fabric of networks, as well as enablers for IP communications," said Zeus Kerravala, senior analyst and vice president, Yankee Group. "The ability of the Switch 4500 to recognize any VoIP service provides unique value to customers who prefer best-of-breed technology for converged solutions."

Designed using open industry standards to avoid burdening customers with the restrictions of proprietary features, the 3Com Switch 4500 is a cost-effective, easy-to-use, managed 10/100 switch - available in 26-port and 50-port models. It includes extensive Layer 2 switching and dynamic Layer 3 routing functionality, which provides the "intelligence" necessary for today's demanding business networks. With models that include cost-effective Power over Ethernet, the Switch 4500 is ideal for converged networks. Additionally, it is interoperable in multi-vendor networks, helping a business preserve its existing infrastructure investments.

"We offer innovative solutions at superior business value to help enterprise customers migrate to secure converged networks supporting business-critical applications and services," said Scott Hilton, vice president of enterprise product line management, 3Com. "The Switch 4500 enhances 3Com's edge-to-core LAN switch portfolio that also includes 3Com's premium stackable switch, the Switch 5500, as well as the modular Switch 7700 and the Terabit-capacity Switch 8800 for large networks spanning thousands of users."

3Com Corp.