ClearPath Networks Introduces iNOC 3.0 for Easy, Centralized Management of Network Services.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 9, 2002

-- New iManaged Services iGuardian and iGuardian Pro Combine Powerful

URL Filtering with Hassle-free Management Through iNOC --

ClearPath Networks, developer of the industry's most compelling set of high-quality, affordable network-based Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, today announced two new managed URL filtering services, iGuardian and iGuardian Pro, which are included in the new release of ClearPath's network management interface, iNOC version 3.0.

A free, online tool designed for customers or resellers who prefer to maintain control over their network services, ClearPath Networks' iNOC allows companies to quickly and easily track account activities, request technical support, and add and configure ClearPath services, including iGuardian and iGuardian Pro.

URL filtering technologies, such as iGuardian and iGuardian Pro, are designed to provide businesses with a powerful tool for controlling employee access to inappropriate or non work-related Web sites while using their company's network. These technologies offer enormous value to many businesses in light of the growing numbers of employees using the Internet for personal reasons during work hours. According to The UCLA Internet Report 2001 -- "Surveying the Digital Future," 60.7 percent of employees surveyed in 2001 said they visit Web sites or surf for personal use at work. This represents an increase from 50.7 percent in 2000.

"A company's ability to control what type of information its employees access -- and when they can access it -- can significantly impact the bottom line, and prevent a wide range of human resources-related issues," said Cliff Young, ClearPath Networks President and CEO. "iGuardian and iGuardian Pro offer companies cost-effective, flexible solutions that deliver all of the benefits of existing URL filtering applications, without the expense of installing and managing onsite URL filtering applications. When combined with the superior control and customer support offered through iNOC, our customers get a comprehensive and customized solution that improves performance while preserving precious human and capital resources."

iGuardian and iGuardian Pro use an efficient network-based service and pricing model to deliver the same type of filtering and customization features as hardware and software-based solutions, at a fraction of the cost. Companies can establish white or black URL lists, and limit access by file type, wildcard expressions or time of day (easing access restrictions after work hours, for example). With iGuardian Pro, full management reporting is available, either in aggregate or at user-specific levels.

ClearPath's proprietary iNOC system gives businesses the option to manage all ClearPath Networks iManaged Services from the convenience of their office or remote locations. With easy-to-use login features, customers can access and manage all major tools and services, such as user profiles, account details and orders. In addition, iNOC provides network management tools that enable businesses to view the status of their network in real-time including packet delivery, latency, bandwidth utilization and more. iNOC includes an advanced trouble ticket submission system to effectively provide access to ClearPath's 24 x 7 technical support, and account administration features, including billing and circuit utilization capabilities, that allow businesses to manage additional users within the account.

In addition to iGuardian and iGuardian Pro, ClearPath's iManaged Services currently include online firewall management, for simplified management and modification of policy rules, and iMail, for advanced e-mail anti-virus and anti-spam management. ClearPath's iManaged Services are offered in conjunction with the company's intelligent managed VPN solution, iVPN. Based on powerful ATM and multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) technology, iVPN allows companies to cost-effectively maximize the value of voice, data and video communications at each of their business locations in a secure private network environment, with iNOC providing a central location for all management and administration requirements.

Pricing and Availability

ClearPath Networks' iNOC 3.0 is free to all ClearPath customers. iGuardian and iGuardian Pro services are available now, with monthly charges starting at only $39.95. For more information, please visit ClearPath's Website at www.clearpathnet.com/iguardian for a complete description of this new service.

About ClearPath Networks

Founded in 2002, ClearPath Networks offers the industry's most compelling set of managed Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, including iVPN, the first line of intelligent network-based VPNs. The company is dedicated to providing businesses throughout the United States fast, reliable and secure access to a full range of high-quality managed network services that are affordable and scalable. Leveraging a powerful nationwide MPLS/ATM fiber backbone, ClearPath's iVPN facilitates the transport of data as well as the transfer of voice and video applications. Led by a team of telecommunications, Internet, and technology executives, ClearPath is based in Los Angeles, California. For more information, please visit www.clearpathnet.com.