3Com's Wireless LAN Access Point 6000 Brings Simplicity to Wireless Networks; New Wi-FI Network Offering Provides Unique Setup and Security Features

Business Wire, June 25, 2001

Business Editors/High Tech Writers

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 25, 2001

As the demand for wireless technologies continues to grow, organizations are seeking solutions that are easy to use, reduce administrative costs, and ultimately empower mobile professionals. 3Com Corporation (Nasdaq:COMS) today announced the availability of the 3Com(R) 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 6000 that breaks new ground in Wireless LAN simplicity and affordability. When deployed with the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN PC Card with XJACK(R) antenna, this complete Wi-Fi certified solution offers uniquely simple deployment, management, and security capabilities.

The 3Com Wireless LAN Access Point 6000 offers several features that allow businesses - even those without network IT staff - to deploy and maintain a secure wireless network easily and reliably. The access point combines several key features, including:

-- 60-second setup - By simply connecting the access point to a power source
and the switch or hub of a wired LAN, the access point will automatically
configure itself to be recognized by and communicate with wireless clients,
without any manual configuration.

-- Dynamic Security Link with username/password authentication - Unlike
standard 40-bit Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) keys that are the same for all
users and must be changed manually, the Access Point 6000 protects the network
from the intrusion of unauthorized users by automatically generating a unique
128-bit encryption key for each user on the network at the beginning of each
networking session. In addition, an optional username/password feature is
included, giving smaller organizations authentication capabilities similar to
those available in the RADIUS-based systems used by large enterprises.

-- Auto Network Connect - Users can roam across access points and multiple IP
networks without having to manually request a new a new IP address or know the
wireless network name (ESSID).

-- Clear Channel Select - automatically selects the best radio channel
available upon start up.

-- Power-over-Ethernet - eliminates the need to run separate AC power lines to
access points, saving time and significant cost.

Together, these features enable customers without technical expertise to gain the productivity and total cost of ownership benefits of a wireless network.

"3Com is committed to offering businesses of all sizes radically simple and feature-rich wireless connectivity," said Paul Fulton, vice president of the Wireless Connectivity Division at 3Com Corporation. "With the 3Com Wireless LAN Access Point 6000, we've realized this vision for network environments that require fast implementation, high security and network flexibility - even for those sites that might not have a dedicated network IT staff. 3Com delivers simple and secure wireless connectivity with the power to increase the efficiency and productivity of employees - no matter where they are."

"Our new 3Com wireless network has far exceeded our expectations," said John Edwards, vice president of Delaware-based Dover Building Supply. "We don't have a big IT staff to set up and maintain a network, so we need something that is simple and reliable. The 3Com wireless network was easy to install and is an extremely cost effective alternative to a wired network. Wireless connectivity has given our staff the mobility, flexibility and fast connections not only to streamline our back office operations, but also to enable us to provide better customer service."

Compatibility

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 6000 and PC Card with XJACK antenna are Wi-Fi certified, ensuring compatibility with the widest range of wireless networking products availability today. For more information, visit www.wi-fi.org.

Pricing and Availability

Available now, the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN PC Card with XJACK antenna is priced at $219 (U.S. list) and he 3Com 11Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 6000 is priced at $599 (unit U.S. list). For more information on these and other 3Com wireless networking products, visit www.3com.com or call 1-800-NET-3COM.

For more details about Wi-Fi and 3Com wireless LAN solutions, please visit 3Com Radio's Web page to hear an interview with WECA chairman and founder and 3Com product manager, David Cohen, at the following URL: http://www.3com.com/other/metafiles/infra/corpinfo/en_US/dcohen052401. asx.

About 3Com Corporation

3Com simplifies how people connect to information and services through easy-to-use connectivity products and solutions for people and businesses. The company also provides access infrastructures and IP services platforms for network service providers. For further information, visit www.3com.com or the press site at www.3com.com/pressbox.> 3Com, and XJACK are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation.

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