Riverstone Networks to Highlight Critical Metropolitan Networking Technologies At Fall 2002 Gigabit Ethernet Conference

Business Wire, July 30, 2002

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

GEC East 2002

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 30, 2002

Metropolitan area networking pioneer Riverstone Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq:RSTN) will discuss key metro network issues, such as the carrier benefits of MPLS VPNs and the new role of Ethernet as a simplifying technology, at this year's Fall Gigabit Ethernet Conference in Washington, D.C. The three-day event runs from August 13-15 at the Washington, D.C. Convention Center.

Stephen Garrison, Riverstone's director of corporate marketing, will examine the new role of Ethernet as it moves upstream in carrier networks during a session on "The Reality of Pervasive Ethernet--A Pragmatist's View." In a network composed of many different technologies, including SONET/SDH, ATM, and Frame Relay, Ethernet has the unique ability to act as a simplifying technology, extending carrier networks and enabling the creation and delivery of metro services. The session takes place on Tuesday, August 13, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Later that day, in the "Ethernet VPN" session, Garrison will highlight MPLS VPNs and the potential they offer to increase carrier service delivery options and revenue. The session will focus on Layer 2 and Layer 3 MPLS VPNs and will examine the role IPSec plays in securing network traffic. The session takes place from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.

On Thursday, August 15, Garrison will explore MPLS as the glue that binds Frame Relay and Ethernet networks together. MPLS provides the missing link between Frame Relay and Ethernet-based networks, enabling carriers to maximize their investment in one while offering advanced IP services over the other. The session "MAN--What Do I Do" takes place from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

Gigabit Ethernet is a high-speed, unifying technology for networking applications in LAN, MAN, and wide area networks (WAN). In the metro network, carriers can use Gigabit Ethernet to aggregate existing SONET/SDH and ATM networks to benefit from the bandwidth efficiency and scalability that Ethernet provides. IDC and Forrester Research estimate Gigabit Ethernet will grow to a $10.3 billion industry by 2005.

The Gigabit Ethernet Conference is the industry's only Ethernet-focused conference and exhibition. Speakers will examine Ethernet from all perspectives, including service providers, design, implementation, chips, finance, and marketing, and service provider benefits. Additional information on GEC is available at www.ethernetexchange.com.

About Riverstone Networks

Riverstone Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq:RSTN) provides solutions for metropolitan area networks, enabling carriers to convert raw bandwidth into profitable services. In more than 50 countries, carriers operating the world's largest metropolitan area networks depend on Riverstone to create and reliably deliver profitable services over legacy and next-generation infrastructures. Worldwide, Riverstone routers are the trusted choice of telecommunications carriers. For more information, please visit Riverstone's web site at www.riverstonenet.com.

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include the risks detailed from time to time in Riverstone Networks' SEC reports, including its final prospectus dated March 3, 2001. Riverstone Networks disclaims any intent or obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements.

Note to Editors: Riverstone Networks is a trademark of Riverstone Networks, Inc. All other trademarks, service marks, and trade names belong to their respective owners.