Hennepin County Library is Using ReefEdge Networks to Secure and Manage Multi-Site WLAN System

Business Wire, Oct 12, 2004

FORT LEE, N.J. -- ReefEdge Networks, a leading provider of secure and centrally managed multi-site wireless local area network solutions, announced today that one of the largest library systems in the state of Minnesota, Hennepin County, is using ReefEdge Networks to provide security, mobility, and management services for the library's cutting edge wireless local area network system.

As part of a multi-year, $75 million upgrade of its libraries, Hennepin County Library set an ambitious goal to move to the forefront of technology. "We strive to be at the leading edge of technology that can better serve our patrons and staff," said Dan Hinrichs, Hennepin Library Systems and Network Services Manager. "When we determined that we need a flexible system to secure and manage all of our wireless networks across the county, ReefEdge was a natural choice. We are very pleased with the ReefEdge system capabilities."

As a direct result of Hennepin's commitment to excellence, the use rate at Hennepin County Library is nearly double the national average -- equivalent to every suburban resident borrowing more than 15 items annually. In recognition for it achievements, Hennepin County Library was recently ranked among the top ten most outstanding libraries serving populations of 500,000 or more people according to the Hennen American Public Library Ratings (HAPLR).

The wireless network deployed at the Hennepin County Libraries allows patrons to access the Internet, send and receive e-mail and conduct research from any area in the library, without relying on fixed workstations. Wireless users roam freely while maintaining a secure wireless network connection via the ReefEdge system. All any user needs is a laptop with a wireless card to begin surfing the web, checking email, or accessing online library resources.

Wireless access is currently available in ten libraries, with planned expansion to additional libraries in the future. The early feedback on the WLAN services from library patrons has been glowing. A response excerpted from a recent online poll seeking feedback on the wireless network tells the story. "This is by far the best thing that you have done for me. I can take my laptop into any room and work. Fantastic. As a teacher, it is nice to sit in a quiet room, listen to iTunes, grade papers and then enter them into my grading program on the Internet. Thank you!"

"ReefEdge is proud to play a big part in the successful implementation of wireless across the Hennepin County Library System," said David Goretski, ReefEdge CEO. "We believe that Hennepin County is setting a new standard for a new generation of library services enabled by technology and we congratulate them for their accomplishments."

About ReefEdge Networks

ReefEdge Networks (www.reefedge.com) is the leading developer of interoperable, secure, and centrally managed wireless local area network (WLAN) platforms for multi-site enterprises. Based on a formidable patent portfolio, the fourth generation of ReefEdge's award-winning ReefSwitch family of products distinguishes itself by delivering comprehensive WLAN security and management capabilities in a manner that reduces the total cost of ownership of the WLAN. This unique capability has helped ReefEdge deploy mission-critical WLAN systems world-wide across multiple sectors, including retail, health-care, banking and finance, government and technology.

Founded in 2000, venture funded and privately held, ReefEdge is led by an executive team with extensive experience in the mobile wireless and communication industries. ReefEdge Networks' corporate headquarters are in New Jersey, with sales offices across the U.S. and worldwide distribution.