Conversent Communications Introduces Affordable Fully-Managed Firewall Service; Enterprise-class service provides scalable, hardware-based protection.

MARLBOROUGH, Mass. -- Conversent Communications today announced the launch of the Conversent Managed Firewall, a new service that utilizes the most advanced security technology to safeguard business network assets against attacks, intrusions, and advanced forms of viruses such as worms and Trojans. The managed hardware solution is the first of its kind, providing the considerable benefits of a hardware firewall with a starting cost that rivals most software solutions - $59.95 per month. E[acute accent]The enterprise-class firewall service was designed specifically with small and medium sized businesses in mind. The product is pre-configured with integrated hardware, software and operating system and can be easily installed. Monitored by Conversent security experts, it delivers automatic updates when a known cyber-security threat evolves and allows customers to customize their security settings. The firewall solution is also robust enough to meet the needs of larger businesses. E[acute accent]"As the volume and intensity of viruses, attacks and other Internet related threats increases, robust security systems have become crucial for businesses as they seek to maintain the integrity of their networks, as well as their productivity," said David Fagan, vice president of marketing for Conversent Communications. "For several years, software firewall services were the only feasible solution from a cost and management perspective for a number of smaller businesses. We are excited to introduce the Managed Firewall solution to our customers, as it will alleviate what has become an expensive and troublesome issue and provide their businesses the highest level of security available." E[acute accent]The Managed Firewall service is flexible and scalable, providing support to multiple locations and enabling the customer to increase user capacity and add services to an existing platform. Standard features include stateful inspection to determine the validity and integrity of network content sources and destinations, a monthly firewall traffic report and 24x7 NOC monitoring. E[acute accent]Conversent currently provides services to more than 42,000 business customers and employs 595 sales, technical and support staff in 22 offices from Maine to New Jersey. The company's expansive network includes six Class 5 telephone switches and 80 Data switches and more than 2,000 miles of fiber optic network. E[acute accent]Since 1998, Conversent has raised more than $230 million in private equity and debt financing, and in January 2003 the company achieved profitability, a first in the CLEC industry.

E[acute accent]About Conversent Communications

E[acute accent]Conversent is a facilities-based communications provider that offers businesses a broad portfolio of voice, data and Internet Services that are bundled to meet the specific needs of each customer. Recognized as one the Northeast's premiere telecommunications providers, Conversent provides its clients innovative and flexible communication solutions backed by a dependable network and a knowledgeable and dedicated customer support staff. Conversent was co-founded in 1998 by cable entrepreneur Robert Fanch and Conversent's president and CEO, Robert Shanahan. More information is available at www.conversent.com.