TIM Links GPRS and WLANTIM Links GPRS and WLAN

ROME -- For the first time in Italy, TIM launches the WLAN (Wireless Local Italian Network) service on the wireless network: the application developed by TIM is based on the connection between the cellular phone's SIM and W-Lan networks (SIM based authentication) and makes it possible for all types of service typical of Wi-FI technology to be used.

With this technology - addressed to the corporate market - the speed offered by the broadband (up to 11 Mb/s), plus that of the GPRS wireless network, becomes an optimal solution for the use of all "wireless" applications for office and mobility uses. TIM has recently implemented the service for its first corporate customers, after the first Italian presentation at SMAU 2003, with practical demonstrations of WI-FI services wholly integrated into TIM's network.

Thanks to SIM based authentication and the integration of the WLAN standard into TIM systems, the employees of Logotel and INRES COOP - two of the companies that have already adopted the service - can use the their company's Intranet services or access the Internet from their own offices or in the public Wi-Fi Hot Spots soon to be made available and enabled for the TIM solution, easily and in maximum security. Thanks to the WLAN coverage provided by TIM the service can be accessed at company offices, together with the use of notebooks equipped with the WLAN TIM Date Kit (a commercial package that includes a PC WLAN Card and connection software between the USB ports and the SIM card of the cellular). The offer is completed by authenticating a SIM card issued to employees and service users, who can also make use of Twin Cards in order to make use of the same corporate number on two different cards.

"The development of new solutions designed to enable corporate applications to be used in wireless situations and guarantee the best conditions for access with the integration of WI-FI and of GPRS, in various contexts, both private and public, bears witness to the constant attention paid by TIM to companies that view the mobile radio operator as a single and innovative partner " declared Roberto Pellegrini Head of TIM's Business Division.

"Thanks to our adoption of TIM's SIM-based Wi-Fi solution we enjoy with the maximum liberty to move and work within our offices along with the non-negligible advantage of guaranteed secure access to our archives. In addition, as every day we receive customers, it is our policy to provide them with internet access, and we can now do so by keeping the transport of their data separate from our own network" commented Giuliano Favini, CEO of Logotel. With the launch of the W-Lan offer, TIM, with 26.1 million lines in Italy (as of 30 .09.2003) confirms its leadership in technological innovation and corporate proposals.

Telecom Italia Mobile SpA