TDM and VOIP

Market New Router Portfolio Extends Network Capabilities to Branch Offices

TORONTO, March 20 /CNW/ - Nortel(*) (NYSE/TSX: NT) has strengthened itsend-to-end converged networks portfolio with the general availability of theNortel Secure Router portfolio, extending the power of convergence from mainoffice locations to branch offices. The new products enhance Nortel'scommitment to provide seamless, feature-rich enterprise networks that supportcritical real-time applications including data, voice, video and streamingmedia applications.

The Nortel Secure Router 1000 portfolio is comprised of the 1001, 1002and 1004 for small office and branch office deployments. It also includes theSecure Router 3120 for mid-range branch deployments. In addition to ease ofimplementation and interoperability, Nortel Secure Routers deliver more thandouble the performance throughput at 25% less cost than equivalent router fromthe leading competitor.

"This product line brings feature-rich services and security for ourcustomers, and delivers the power of the headquarters environment in a branchoffice," said Aziz Khadbai, general manager, Converged Data Networks. "Theserouters offer IP capabilities beyond layer 3 routing, including the provisionof firewalls, VPN and Quality of Service capabilities designed to support IPtelephony and other latency-sensitive applications."

"We've been using the Nortel Secure Router 1004 in a branch locationalong with the Business Communication Manager," said Lisa J. Harris seniorvice president and chief information officer, Gevity. Gevity, headquartered inBradenton, Florida with branch locations throughout the United States,provides comprehensive insourced employment management solutions for small andmedium-sized businesses. "The installation and implementation was easy andinteroperability has been seamless. Nortel's solution provides a completepackage of price, performance, reduced administrative costs, and world-classsupport, providing Gevity with a competitive advantage."

Nortel Secure Routers are being made available direct through Nortel andthrough Nortel's extensive partner distribution channel. Several have beentesting the routers in preparation for the launch.

"We have a large customer base searching for integrated branch officenetwork solutions," said Stuart Chandler, president and CEO, OptivorTechnologies. "Nortel Secure Routers combined with Nortel's extensiveenterprise portfolio clearly provide that solution. Optivor has been bundlingthe secure routers with the Business Communication Manager, Power overEthernet routing switches, WLAN access points, and IP Phones for a complete,secure end-to-end converged solution. Integrating the secure router was quickand seamless. Now our customers have a clear choice when selecting oneprovider for voice and data networking."

"The need for consolidated branch-office devices is compelling. Theaverage branch has six networking devices, with the number of locationsincreasing by 6.5 percent a year. That adds up to more devices and more timemanaging them," said Robin Gareiss, executive vice president and seniorfounding partner, Nemertes. "IT staffs want products that combine routing,optimization, and security, making it easier to manage an end-to-end convergedinfrastructure."

Nortel purchased Tasman Networks for $99.5 million to provide acomprehensive end-to-end convergence solution and to round out the company'ssecure router portfolio for branch office environments. The deal closedFebruary 24, 2006.