Web Hosting Provider MCI Helps Businesses IP Networking

MCI, Inc. (www.mci.com) unveiled two new additions to its Secure Interworking Gateway (SIG) Services suite to help business and government customers extend their enterprise networks by securely combining the power of private and public IP networking.

Both new services-Broadband VPN Interworking and Secure Internet Access-take advantage of the interoperability, intelligence and security built into MCI's network to effectively and affordably bridge the benefits of private and public IP communications.

"MCI continues to raise the intelligence and interoperability of our network," said Nancy Gofus, MCI senior vice president of Product Management. "This comprehensive suite of secure gateway services meets the growing requirements companies have to advance their capabilities in an IP world."

With Broadband VPN Interworking, MCI Frame Relay and Private IP customers can now connect smaller remote offices with low-cost secure broadband connectivity using DSL and cable access.

With Secure Internet Access, businesses can now securely connect their Frame, ATM and Private IP networks to the Internet for Web access and email through an MCI network-based firewall.

"These additions to the Secure Interworking Gateway (SIG) suite of services allow customers to tie together their private and public IP communications seamlessly," said Brian Washburn, principal analyst at Current Analysis, a Virginia-based industry analyst firm.

MCI's SIG platform was designed to provide vast scalability and resiliency and is ideal for any size business. Enabling enterprises to transition to new technology with ease, customers do not need to buy or lease additional hardware.

The new services are available immediately to U.S-based customers with plans to roll-out Broadband VPN Interworking and Secure Internet Access in Europe and Asia Pacific later this year.

MCI's offers a complete suite of SIG services, enabling customers to take advantage of a one-solution approach to bridge the gap between private and public IP networks with built-in security.