Asante Releases GX5-448W Smart Ethernet Switch; Supports up to 52 Network Devices in Plug-and-Play Environment.

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Asante Technologies, Inc.(OTC:ASNT), a leading provider of networking solutions for the small-medium business (SMB) market, today announced the release of the FriendlyNET(R) GX5-448W, a 48+4 plug-and-play smart Ethernet switch.

"The advanced Quality of Service features and simplified web management allow anyone to easily and quickly deploy the GX5-448W in any networking environment," said Craig Johnson, Vice President of Marketing at Asante. "The 52-port switch is an affordable and powerful cornerstone for any LAN, with support for up to 48 10/100 Mbps clients, 2 1000BaseT ports, and 2 SFP mini GBIC slots."

Advanced Features

The GX5-448W is powerful enough to handle the needs of growing organizations.

--WebManaged. All features are accessible from an easy-to-use interface. No cryptic command line commands or third-party network management applications required.

--Mirroring. With a network analyzer (available through third parties), look at traffic on other ports; it's ideal for troubleshooting and monitoring bandwidth usage.

--Quality of Service (QoS). Efficiently control network resources by classifying traffic and prioritizing flows.

High Density, Smart Connectivity

Keeping in the tradition of Asante's popular FriendlyNET GX5W Gigabit Ethernet switches, the GX5-448W is plug-and-play -- no configuration is required for basic connections. When advanced features are needed, users can simply use their web browser to access the switch's on-board installation and troubleshooting guide.

Built for Expansion

Asante designed the GX5-448W to meet the needs of growing businesses. All 48 10/100 Mbps ports on the switch can be used for connecting clients, and for network resources. An additional 2 1000BaseT Gigabit Ethernet ports are available for connecting to servers or other switches. And two industry-standard SFP mini GBIC slots can be configured to meet the growing demands of corporate networking. Optional mini GBIC modules are available in multi-mode and single-mode fiber for long-distance connections.

Pricing and Availability

Asante distributors, resellers, and systems integrators offer this new product now:

--GX5-448W. 48-port 10/100, 2-port 1000BaseT, 2-port SFP smart Ethernet switch. Manufacturer's suggest retail price (MSRP): $699.00.

About Asante

Asante Technologies, Inc., is a leading provider of networking solutions for the small-medium business (SMB) market. Asante designs, markets, and sells a full line of networking solutions that provides its customers with high-performance, reliable, and value-based solutions. The company's FriendlyNET and IntraCore(R) product families offer companies a full breadth of products -- from the edge to the core of their networks. For additional information, visit www.asante.com or call 800-662-9686.

Asante, FriendlyNET, and IntraCore are registered trademarks of Asante Technologies, Inc. All other names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.