3Com's New Modem Manager Application Puts Users in Driver Seat; Users Monitor Modem Performance Directly From Desktop.

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 18, 1998--Modem connection speeds are displayed clearly on your computer screen.

New diagnostic tools that are not only easy to understand, but easy to use. Thanks to 3Com Corporation, the future of modem monitoring technology has become a reality.

Called 3Com(R) Modem Manager, this latest application allows users to take charge of their modem performance and effectively monitor their modem's activity directly from their desktop.

Bundled with select 3Com U.S. Robotics(R) 56K(1) V.90 modems, Modem Manager allows users to check on connection speeds and throughput rates, monitor how long they have been online, download the latest modem software from the 3Com web site and cut down on tech support calls due to easy point-and-click diagnostic tools. Modem Manager also allows users to diagnose modem connection problems in order to prescribe possible solutions.

Exclusive to 3Com U.S. Robotics 56K V.90 faxmodems, Modem Manager is built on award-winning technology from Santa Clara-based VitalSigns Software. This technology, which is at the core of VitalSigns' VitalAgent and Net.Medic products, gives users unique insights into their online experience, helping them track a wide variety of online problems to their source.

"Modem Manager is all about giving users the best Internet experience possible," said Don Fotsch, vice president of product management for 3Com's Personal Communications Division. "Never before have users so easily been able to determine critical modem functions like they now can. 3Com's Modem Manager moves modem monitoring to a whole new level."

"We're excited to be part of 3Com's initiative to give their users greater visibility into, and control over, their online experience," said Montgomery Kersten, president and CEO of VitalSigns. "This focus on the consumer is further proof of 3Com's commitment to optimize its customers' network environment."

Everything users need to install Modem Manager is on the Connections(tm) CD-ROM included with every 3Com U.S. Robotics V.90 56K modem. With just a few mouse clicks, Modem Manager loads into the Windows System Tray, giving users easy access to its many monitoring features.

Depending on their individual needs, users can view Modem Manager in three modes: Full View, Mini View and Tray View. Appearing much like a stereo control panel, Full View gives the most information, such as number dialed, connect speed and time spent on-line. Mini View is ideally used while surfing the web, since it offers the same information in a minimized format. Finally, Tray View was designed for users interested in monitoring their modem but who don't want to give up valuable desktop space.

Aside from informing the user of speeds and feeds, Modem Manager is also a critical diagnostic tool. The Modem Info button, for example, provides critical tech support information such as serial number, model number and code date. Users also can access a log detailing previous connection history, an Update button that will bring them to 3Com's web site for the latest modem code and a Help button that answers commonly asked modem questions.

Aside from the Connections CD-ROM, 3Com's Modem Manager software can also be downloaded from the 3Com web site for free by registered users of any 3Com U.S. Robotics V.90 56K modem. Modem Manager is available now with selected 3Com U.S. Robotics 56K V.90 modems. For more information, users can visit the 3Com Modem Manager web site at www.3com.com/news/4p_manager.html.

VitalSigns Software

VitalSigns Software provides solutions that enhance the performance and availability of mission-critical business applications. By monitoring and measuring network and application performance from the user's desktop-where transactions begin and end-VitalSigns solutions provide the most valuable index for measuring and validating end-to-end service levels. This data is collected throughout the enterprise and aggregated at a single, central location, providing the ultimate indicator of application performance and availability by implementing measurable, verifiable service-level agreements (SLAs) and enabling the early detection and correction of network and application problems. Located in Santa Clara, Calif., VitalSigns can be reached at 408/980-8844 or on the Web at http://www.vitalsigns.com. VitalSigns was recently acquired by International Network Services and will become the INSoft product division of INS once the acquisition becomes final.

About 3Com

3Com Corporation enables individuals and organizations worldwide to communicate and share information and resources anytime, anywhere. As one of the world's preeminent suppliers of data, voice and video communications technology, 3Com has delivered networking solutions to nearly 200 million customers worldwide. The company provides large enterprise, small and medium enterprise, carriers and network service providers, and consumers with comprehensive, innovative information access product and system solutions for building intelligent, reliable and high performance local and wide area networks. For further information, visit 3Com's World Wide Web site at http://www.3Com.com or the press site at http://www.3Com.com/pressbox.

Note to Editors: (1) 56 Kbps technology refers to server download speed only and requires compatible modems at server sites. All V.90 products are capable of 56 Kbps downloads; however, due to FCC rules which restrict power output of service provider's modems, current download speeds are limited to 53 Kbps. Actual speed may vary depending on line conditions. Uploads travel at speeds up to 31.2 Kbps. Requires analog phone line compatible with 56K technology. See www.3Com.com/56K for details.

3Com and U.S. Robotics are registered trademarks. And Connections is a trademark of 3Com Corporation. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.