8el expands convergence portfolio to include mobile data connectivity

Reading, UK, 12th May, 2003 --- Mobile data communications is the latest growth area in the mobility market, with many organisations keen to take advantage of the business benefits. However, due to several concerns over traditional GPRS offerings, many have not yet taken that step.

After conducting a series of successful trials held during April 2003, 8elhas launched a range of GPRS access services to complement their existing converged service portfolio.

Through 8el's leading edge core network, private network access between fixed line sites and mobile users is now available. This service configuration is available to both new and existing customers.

8el is perfectly positioned to work with IT departments and meet the changing demands of the modern business environment. By avoiding traditional Internet tunnelling, 8elcan offer GPRS access in a simpler, more secure and cost-effective manner, making GPRS a viable business tool.

Through 8el, GPRS can enable a range of applications such as e-mail, managed Internet and private LAN access for mobile users. By using 8el, employees can use laptops or mobile phones to connect to the office from any location, without crossing a public network or needing the traditional encryption technologies.

Karl Jackson, 8el's Network Architect commented,

"We are now able to offer our customers a mobile solution that gives them the security of their own firewall. We have experienced connection speeds of 56Kbps whilst negating the cost of expensive leased lines. This solution makes mobile data access an even more attractive proposition than a stand alone mobile company offering."

For further information please contact the press office directly on press@ 8el .com / 0845 33 000 93