Compaq Delivers Free Unified Messaging Service for Small- and Medium-Sized Businesses.

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 2, 1999--

Compaq Message Center Lite Offers Free Web-Based Access to

E-mail, Voicemail and Fax

In an effort to aid small and medium businesses (SMB) in automating and streamlining their business practices, Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE:CPQ) today announced the Compaq Communications Center, the PC industry's first integrated suite of business-class unified messaging services, including Message Center Lite, ( http://www.compaq.com/smb/onlineservices.com ). Message Center Lite is a free(1) service that enables users to check all of their voicemail, fax and e-mail messages in one central location via their web browser. Compaq also unveiled a new look to its Online Services that incorporates an enhanced user interface, as well as increased efficiency in finding and buying available products.

The Compaq Communications Center is powered by TelePost ( http://www.telepost.com ), a leading global provider of advanced business communications services. Compaq is the first PC vendor to offer business professionals a free, convenient and simple way to access, manage and respond to all of their messages.

"Compaq created its Online Services to provide small businesses with the tools they need to boost productivity, cut costs and grow their business in today's highly competitive environment," said Bob Fernander, Vice President and General Manager, Commercial Business Unit, Compaq Computer Corporation. "The addition of these new unified messaging services strengthens our current offering and provides innovative tools for business people to manage their time and communications more effectively."

Consolidated Communications for Increased Productivity

Message Center Lite gives customers secure, nationwide access to voicemail, fax and e-mail in one Web-based inbox. When customers subscribe, they choose a private, local phone number from one of 21 major U.S. metropolitan areas. This telephone number can be dialed directly, or used to capture calls forwarded from the subscriber's primary home, office or cellular phone when busy.

Customers receive the benefits of integrated voicemail, e-mail and faxes without the purchase of additional business equipment or supplies, such as toner and paper for fax machines, answering machines or communications software, and additional phone lines. Customers simply register through the Compaq Online Services Website for access to their personal contacts and messages using any Internet connected computer.

Business customers also can add services, such as pager notification, for a monthly subscription fee(2). Other subscriber services include web-initiated audio conferencing, a web-based presentation service and a web-initiated call back service. Using the conference center function, customers can set up and manage standard telephone conference calls using a web browser, with up to seven active participants and up to 50 passive listeners. With the presentation feature, customers can host PowerPoint presentations and lead web tours for up to 200 people. Customers also have access to Compaq's RingMeNow service, a web-based business card that instantly connects a Website visitor with the Website owner by phone. Business users who subscribe to these conferencing and collaboration services will see up to an 80 percent savings over traditional telephone services(3).

New User Interface Provides Easy Access to Compaq Online Services

In addition to the new communications services, Compaq continues to make available its original Internet-powered services, including dial-up Internet access, e-commerce services, and productivity solutions such as backup, remote access to data, secure file delivery and postage(4). These services are now categorized into three task-based groups, including Access the Internet, Sell Online and Manage Your Office to provide customers quicker access and easier navigation. Customers also have direct access to Online Services using the unique Compaq Prosignia Internet keyboard and quick-start buttons.

Compaq ezStore, available via Sell Online, enables customers to take their first step towards marketing and selling on the Internet. This service allows small business merchants to quickly and easily set up an electronic storefront on the Internet with no development expertise. Compaq is currently waiving the setup fees for both the storefront and credit card activation(5). The first month's hosting and credit card processing are also free (up to 500 transactions), saving a customer up to $250.

Designed for quicker access and easier navigation, Compaq's Online Services incorporate a user-friendly interface that delivers an enhanced e-commerce backend, full-service customer benefit tools, including frequently asked questions for fast troubleshooting.

Compaq's Online Services are available immediately to North America customers through the Compaq Website at http://www.compaq.com/smb/onlineservices, or through the company's Online Store (Direct Plus) at www.directplus.compaq.com.

Compaq Background

Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE:CPQ), a Fortune Global 100 company, is the second largest computer company in the world and the largest global supplier of computer systems. Compaq develops and markets hardware, software, solutions, and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, enterprise ad network storage products, commercial desktop and portable products and consumer PCs. The company is an industry leader in environmentally friendly programs and business practices.

Compaq products are sold and supported in more than 100 countries through a network of authorized Compaq marketing partners. Customer support and information about Compaq and its products are available at http://www.compaq.com, or by calling 800/OK-COMPAQ. Product information and reseller locations are available by calling 800/345-1518.

Compaq, Registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

(1) Free offer is for Message Center Lite. Offer is subject to change

without notice and terms of TelePost Service Agreement.

(2) For fee information regarding the subscription-based services,

please visit the Compaq Online Services Website at

http://www.compaq.com/smb/onlineservices.com.

(3) Savings claims are based on AT&T, Sprint and MCI conference

calling rates. TelePost costs based on monthly minimum rate plan

at $.10/minute anytime, anywhere. TelePost does not charge for

call initiator. Sprint pricing based on 12/14/98 published rates

of unattended 800 number dial-in, peak hours. AT&T pricing based

on 12/14/98 published rates of operator dialed conferencing, peak

hours. MCI pricing based on 8/15/98 published rates of unattended

dial-in conferencing, peak hours. Sprint, AT&T and MCI are

registered trademarks of their respective owners.

(4) Compaq intends to make postage services available through its

partner E-Stamp later within the third quarter.

(5) Offering subject to other restrictions. Compaq reserves the right

to change, alter or cancel this offering at any time without

notice.