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Tulane University Selects Enterasys Networks' RoamAbout R2 for $1.5 Million Multi-Campus Wireless Initiative

RoamAbout R2 Wireless Access Platform Provides Next-Generation, High-Availability Mobile Connectivity for Leading Research University

     

ROCHESTER, NH & NEW ORLEANS, LA -- August 14, 2001--

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For a wireless implementation spanning multiple campuses, Tulane University, a leading undergraduate and research institution, has selected the Enterasys Networks RoamAbout R2 Wireless Access Platform, the first wireless access platform that will offer 54 Megabits per second (Mbps) performance based on the 802.11a standard and bring advanced Layer 3-4 capabilities to the wireless LAN. The wireless project, encompassing 80 buildings and a number of common areas across three campuses, will be comprised of approximately 1,000 RoamAbout R2 Access Points.

"With the size and scope of the wireless initiative, we must deploy technology that will last," said Jed Diem, vice president of information systems at Tulane University. "The Enterasys RoamAbout R2 provides the perfect migration path with an Access Point that simultaneously supports both current 802.11b and next-generation 802.11a standards."

The University, known for its cutting-edge research, will offer students and faculty high-performance mobile connectivity to support advanced applications. Designed with Layer 3-4 capabilities, the RoamAbout R2 delivers enhanced network features and intelligence enabling a high-availability network capable of supporting complex applications over the wireless LAN. Augmenting the wired infrastructure, the wireless network will not only support these applications, but also provide students and faculty with flexible mobile network access.

"In a research and learning environment such as Tulane University, it is imperative that people are connected--to information, University resources and, most importantly, to each other," continued Diem. "The multi-campus wireless infrastructure enables Tulane to take the next step toward universal connectivity; it makes it easy for people to be connected anytime, anywhere."

Built upon an expandable platform, the RoamAbout R2 is unique in its ability to support multiple high-rate wireless LAN (WLAN) radios providing complete investment protection and an easy migration path. When higher-speed standards such as 802.11a (54Mbps) become available, the RoamAbout R2 will run both technologies simultaneously from one device, providing Tulane with the flexibility to upgrade to 802.11a according to their needs. In addition, because it is based on industry standards, the R2 is interoperable with the University's existing infrastructure, including other vendors' products.

MAC Address authentication via radius servers will supply user authentication and help secure Tulane's wireless LAN infrastructure. The University will also rely on IEEE standards to address wireless network security and is planning to implement the IEEE 802.1x authentication standard once it is finalized. The RoamAbout R2 wireless platform will support 802.1x as part of its Secure Harbour security architecture. "With the unique capabilities of the RoamAbout R2, Tulane University can provide its students with enhanced mobile network availability, while simultaneously ensuring they will have the ability to support upcoming performance and security standards," said Jim Sims, senior vice president, US & Latin America Sales, Enterasys Networks. "Tulane University, with its history of advanced, cutting-edge research and curriculum programs, is embarking on the next generation in wireless LAN technology."

First to receive the high-speed wireless access will be the School of Law, School of Medicine and the main campus library. This first phase is scheduled for completion on August 15. The project is scheduled to take place in two phases, with full implementation completed by the end of the year.

About Enterasys Networks

Enterasys Networks is the Secure Networks Company, providing enterprise customers with innovative network infrastructure products, services and solutions that deliver the security, productivity and adaptability benefits required by Global 2000 organizations. For more information on Enterasys Secure Networks and the company's products, including multilayer switches, core routers, WAN routers, wireless LANs, network management, and intrusion defense systems, visit enterasys.com.

About Tulane University

Tulane is a private, non-sectarian research university with 11 schools and colleges. Located in New Orleans, Tulane offers undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees in law, medicine, public health and tropical medicine, architecture, business, engineering, social work and the liberal arts and sciences. Almost 12,000 students attend Tulane, which has a faculty of nearly 2,000 individuals. Tulane is one of 63 members of the prestigious Association of American Universities.

There is nothing more important than our customers