HP'S new industry-first management software recommends how to improve network performance; HP delivers intelligent network management application with user-friendly Web interface

Business Wire, March 31, 1997

PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 31, 1997-- Hewlett-Packard Company, the leader in networked systems for workgroups, today announced that its HP AdvanceStack Assistant network management software now includes the new Network Performance Advisor, which silently monitors the network and provides simple and easy-to-understand recommendations to improve network performance.

HP AdvanceStack Assistant is part of HP's new NetReady Automated Performance Technology, which combines hardware and software intelligence to optimize network performance automatically, enable growth and reduce the cost and complexity of networking.

HP's AdvanceStack Assistant is the only management software in its class that can make recommendations to increase network performance based on patterns of network traffic. Using plain language and clear diagrams, it helps users get the best performance from their networks. By monitoring traffic over user-defined periods, it generates reports that recommend node moves, switch placement or the need to upgrade to 100Mbit Ethernet for improving the performance of the network.

"HP knows that network-management and performance-degradation problems keep our customers up at night," said Gary McAnally, general manager of HP's Workgroup Networks Division. "They want to better manage the network but usually don't have the time, resources or tools to do it effectively. The AdvanceStack Assistant solves that problem. HP simplifies network managers' lives while reducing the cost and complexity of networking."

AdvanceStack Assistant's topology map, which shows the logical connection of network devices, now uses network node-friendly names to simplify interpretation of the topology. For example, the network manager can label nodes with end-user names, such as "Jones" or "Sally" or "Jones 4Si Printer."

Network managers can specify data-analysis periods so they can better understand what happens to their network at critical times. Network reports are displayed using Netscape Browser for easy interpretation and detailed explanations using hypertext links.

"As intelligent hub and switches become commodities, network management becomes a critical point for product differentiation," said Richard Villars, director of network management research at International Data Corp. "New pervasive switching environments are incomplete without complementary and robust solutions that offer new levels of traffic monitoring and management capability. A product, like HP's AdvanceStack Assistant, that makes network recommendations will help managers deal with increasing network complexity."

U.S. PRICES AND AVAILABILITY

The HP AdvanceStack Assistant (HP J2569K) is included with all managed AdvanceStack switches and hubs at no extra cost, or it may be purchased separately for $499. It is expected to be available April 1, through HP's worldwide network of authorized computer dealers, resellers and distributors. It comes with a 90-day limited warranty.

HP now offers an AdvanceStack Assistant spring '97 demo disk for viewing the product without using it on a "live network." A "product tour" is included to give a "click-as-you-go" tour of AdvanceStack Assistant, including the Network Performance Advisor, traffic management and trouble-shooting. Resellers, VARs and the sales channel may obtain a copy of the new AdvanceStack Assistant spring '97 demo disk by calling 800/544-9976. End-users may obtain a copy by calling 800/752-0900.

HP's Workgroup Networks Division delivers a complete line of network workgroup solutions. Workgroup Networks Division is a leading supplier of stackable hubs, network management applications, remote-access products and high-speed networking products.

Hewlett-Packard Company is a leading global manufacturer of computing, communications and measurement products and services recognized for excellence in quality and support. HP has 112,800 employees and had revenue of $38.4 billion in its 1996 fiscal year.

Information about HP and its products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.hp.com . -0-

Note to Editors: Sales information may be obtained by calling 800/533-1333 or at http://www.hp.com on the World Wide Web or visit HP's Network_City at http://www.hp.com/go/network_city . For information and support by FAX, users may dial FAX HP FIRST (800/333-1917).

Please do NOT use editor-contact or corporate telephone numbers for sales information. Information in this release applies specifically to products available in the United States. Product availability and specification may vary in non-U.S. markets.

If you choose to review this item, your readers will receive the quickest response to their inquiries by mailing them to Hewlett-Packard Company, Direct Marketing Organization, P.O. Box 58059, MS511L-SJ, Santa Clara, Calif. 95051-8059.

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Ken Robb, 916/785-1545

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Maureen Grijalva, 415/975-2212

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