FlowPoint Announces New Software Release for ISDN Bridge/Routers; Release 2.0 Continues Efforts to Simplify Customer Setup and Configuration; New Encryption Option and Overall Price Reduction Announced.

LOS GATOS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 3, 1997--FlowPoint Corporation, an international provider of remote access networking products, today announced a new generation in ease-of-use and simplicity for ISDN bridge/routers with a major new release of FlowPoint software.

FlowPoint's release 2.0 software is the first ISDN bridge/router software specifically designed to address the requirements of today's typical end-user in a remote branch office or small office/home office (SOHO).

Available immediately, the new release of software includes functionality in the Windows configuration for simplifying initial installation and configuration at both the remote and the host ISP or enterprise site, as well as increasing end-user control and convenience during ongoing operations. FlowPoint has also released a new software encryption feature as an option and reduced prices across its product line.

"The new software release is a continuation of our commitment to make the ISDN experience as productive for the customer as possible," said Chuck Waggoner, President of FlowPoint. "Far too many people have been aggravated by the complexity of installing and configuring most ISDN routers. FlowPoint release 2.0 software solves those problems by providing our router customers with an easy-to-use configurator, dynamic IP address assignment and touch tone telephone configuration, all of which dramatically simplify the initial installation process. Other new features like call bumping, additional port monitors, and integrated TFTP server make the ongoing operation of ISDN routers easier and more efficient."

Release 2.0 Software

FlowPoint's release 2.0 software is currently shipping on all high-performance FlowPoint-100 series ISDN routers. FlowPoint routers shipped prior to January 1997 can be field upgraded with 2.0 software at no cost to the customer. Release 2.0 software provides several important new features including:

-- Dynamic IP Assignment - This feature can be used to simplify the initial installation at the remote site for both the end user as well as the host ISP or enterprise. It also allows for sharing an IP address when there are few available addresses on the remote LAN and simultaneous access is not required.

-- Touch Tone Telephone Configuration - The IP address for FlowPoint-112 and 122 routers with the 2 line POTS feature may be entered via a touch tone telephone, dramatically simplifying the installation process.

-- Call Bumping - This feature can be set so that an incoming or outgoing voice call will automatically "bump" data traffic off one B channel for the voice call. This increases control and convenience for SOHO users, who frequently have a limited number of lines.

-- Integrated TFTP Server - Loads a FlowPoint router's IP address, new software, and backup files over the network for easier installation and ongoing operation.

-- Van Jacobson Header Compression - Improved compression efficiency and interoperability with other companies' products that use Van Jacobson header compression. This is in addition to Stac Electronics compression which was previously available.

-- Other features include additional port monitors/indicators, a history log and dynamic logging, a "data as voice" option, and the ability to set different line speeds for different remote routers.

New Encryption Option

FlowPoint has introduced a new DES link encryption software option (RFC 1969), for IP, IPX and bridged traffic. The encryption scheme is designed for private networks and is currently compatible with Cabletron CSX routers. FlowPoint plans to introduce compatibility with other vendors' routers soon. The encryption option is available immediately in the U.S. for FlowPoint Model 120 and 122 routers and has an MSRP of $300.

Price Reduction

FlowPoint recently reduced prices by up to 28% across its product line of high-performance ISDN bridge/routers. Lower manufacturing costs, due to higher volumes of sales, resulted in these significant price reductions in 1996. These price reductions underscore FlowPoint's commitment to delivering affordable, high-quality remote access solutions. -0-

FlowPoint Models       120-H  122-H (POTS)  120-O      122-O (POTS)
---------------------  -----  ------------  ---------  ------------
LAN Devices Supported   8      8            Unlimited  Unlimited
2-Line POTS             No     Yes          No         Yes
New U.S. List Prices    $795   $895         $895       $995

-0- About FlowPoint

FlowPoint is a privately-held communications and networking company that designs, manufactures, and markets remote network access products such as ISDN bridge/routers. The company's mission is to create superior-quality, full-featured products allowing efficient, seamless network integration between small offices, home offices (SOHO) and wide area networks. Founded in June, 1993, FlowPoint is headquartered in Los Gatos, Calif., and distributes its products worldwide through systems integrators, distributors, and OEMs. FlowPoint can be found on the worldwide web at http://www.flowpoint.com or call toll free at 1-888-867-4736.

-0-

Note to Editors: (c) 1997 FlowPoint. All products or service names mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners.

CONTACT: FlowPoint

John Scandalios, 408/364-8300

[e-mail]

or

Welch Communications

Marianne Welch, 408/395-7363

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