CrossKeys Releases SNMP Interface for Multi-Vendor Integration: CrossKeys Opens Up Proprietary Hardware to the Simplicity of Multi-vendor Management.

Business Editors

VIENNA, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 15, 2000

CrossKeys Systems Corporation (Nasdaq:CKEY)(TSE:CKY) today announced the release of its first simple network management protocol (SNMP) interface, allowing service providers to integrate multi-vendor elements through an industry-standard protocol. Service providers can use this interface to manage their multi-vendor networks from one, integrated point, which can also be the single data source for Operational Support System (OSS) software. This eliminates compatibility problems, allowing service providers to select best-of-breed hardware for their telecom networks without compatibility concerns.

The first SNMP interface is for the Newbridge MainStreetXpress(tm) 36170 Multiservices Switch. Through the SNMP interface, CrossKeys software can open the 36170 switch to any network management system (NMS) and OSS. This means network operations staff can see and configure end-to-end paths that include the 36170, saving time and cost. Supporting the SNMP standard also helps equipment manufacturers extend their reach when integrating into environments with proprietary NMSs.

"CrossKeys answers service providers' need to select the best vendor equipment for their converging networks," said Ian McLaren, President and CEO, CrossKeys. "Multi-vendor networks are driven by the competition and continuous technology advancements in telecommunications. We are making the business of both service providers and vendors that much easier when it comes to getting the best possible performance from multi-vendor networks."

The ability to manage multi-vendor networks through a single set of integrated OSS applications is critical to the success of service providers. CrossKeys CrossControl(tm) software increases a service provider's responsiveness to market demands by eliminating much of the complexity of integrating multi-vendor networks. A single point of integration streamlines network management, reduces operations and IT costs, and enhances service reliability by reducing errors and increasing operations efficiency.

About CrossKeys

CrossKeys Systems Corporation (www.crosskeys.com) develops and supports carrier-scale software that enables service providers to manage quality of service for the equipment and traffic on their telecom networks. Its software uniquely integrates multi-vendor, multi-technology and multi-platform management for the marketplace. With CrossKeys products, 200 of the world's largest and most demanding service providers worldwide operate more efficiently and provide better service to their end-customers.

CrossKeys Systems Corporation is a public company whose common shares are listed for trading on Nasdaq (CKEY) in the United States and on The Toronto Stock Exchange (CKY) in Canada.

CrossKeys and logo are registered trademarks of CrossKeys Systems Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders and are acknowledged by CrossKeys Systems Corporation.