2 May 2006, INTEROP 2006, Las Vegas, NV - WideBand Corporation of Gallatin, Missouri, today announced the launch of the Network Management Unit (nMU) - a hardware device used to manage high performance networking installations and the latest addition to WideBand’s intelligent networking system.

The Product
     The nMU - the “brain” of the intelligent network, is a hardware device connecting the Wide Area Network (Internet) and the Local Area Network. It continuously monitors and manages the entire network segment, detecting and, in many instances, automatically correcting problems to maximize and stabilize network performance.
     The nMU performs self-maintenance functions such as managing Ethernet switches, automatically configuring complex VPNs over multiple switches, and updating switch firmware when needed. It activates watchmen in the switches throughout the network to identify areas of congestion. In cases of server malfunction, the nMU automatically switches all traffic to a mirror server to provide users uninterrupted network operation while it notifies service personnel of the defective unit. The nMU also detects faults in the network cabling system, informing the repair team of exactly where in the cable the defect occurs. Management of the nMU is accomplished via a standard browser interface, which can be accessed remotely. High-level security is ensured via its integrated S-Key technology.

The Launch
     The nMU launch - May 2nd at Interop 2006 in Las Vegas, NV - the world’s most comprehensive IT event and the showcase for the revolution and evolution in IP. The WideBand nMU is being considered for the “Best of INTEROP Award” presented by Network Computing Magazine and CMP Media for leading products and technologies of the Show.

WideBand 1.7 - The Mission Critical Network Specification
     In response to requests from its customers for an “integrated information system design specification”, WideBand Corporation has created a specific set of guidelines for mission critical networks known as the WideBand Mission Critical Network Specification, or WideBand 1.7. The 1.7 Specification targets eight network components - Hardware Network Management Devices, Fault Tolerant Design, Mirrored Network Storage, Data Link Layer Management, and Secure Key Authentication & Encryption - and formalizes the performance requirements needed to assure users of fast, reliable, and secure networks.

WideBand Corporation is the leading manufacturer of secure high availability solutions based on WideBand Networking. Their products are manufactured in the United States to strict standards of quality assurance. WideBand markets its products to intermediate-sized businesses, the education sector, and to state and federal government. More information on WideBand Corporation is available at http://www.wband.com

WideBand is a registered trademark of WideBand Corporation. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.