INMARSAT SELECTS ARUBA TO REPLACE EXISTING WIRELESS LAN.

Inmarsat has selected Aruba Wireless Networks to replace its existing Wireless LAN (WLAN). Aruba's centralized WLAN switching system will provide seamless mobile computing capabilities for 400 Inmarsat employees throughout its London Headquarters and global branch offices in Europe, the Middle East and North America.

Inmarsat has used 802.11b wireless technology since 1999. It is undertaking a system-wide migration to a centralized architecture from Aruba to increase the performance, security and ongoing management of its entire wireless network.

"The decision to migrate to a centrally switched 802.11a network after four years was primarily driven by a desire for increased performance and to avoid RF interference from other networks," said Peter Smith, head of IT at Inmarsat. "We detected at least 10 other wireless networks in the immediate vicinity of our London office and in order to avoid any potential interference issues we have decided to move to the less-common 802.11a standard. This move also gave us the boost in performance we desired -- from 11Mbps to 54Mbps."

Inmarsat was supplied with a total of seven stackable switches including three Aruba 2400s and four Aruba 800s. Forty centrally configured "thin" APs will provide network access as well as performing RF monitoring functions.

"The Aruba system also allows us to more easily manage and better secure the network from a single physical location, providing a full view and complete control over authenticated users, and guest, security and access policies," added Smith.

Inmarsat tested a range of systems before selecting Aruba. Tests included interoperability with existing WLAN, applications, operating systems, firewall and VPN systems. The Aruba switch allows users to access the corporate network securely from home, partner sites or Wi-Fi hotspots enabling a truly mobile workforce.

"We know that with the Aruba kit, we are making a flexible long-term investment," added Peter. "The kit has been extensively tested with our current systems, but is also future proofed to support new standards of security and applications such as voice."

"Inmarsat was a pioneer in large scale WLAN installations and we are delighted to announce they have chosen to upgrade with Aruba. The idea that fast and secure wireless networking is a utility in the modern office environment is an excellent sign for the future of this company's approach to WLAN," said Albert Benhamou, vice president EMEA at Aruba Wireless Networks. "Aruba's suite of secure, centrally-controlled WLAN switching solutions, provides ease of access for users while retaining comprehensive management features for IT staff."

About Inmarsat

Inmarsat Ltd has more than 25 years' experience in designing, implementing and operating satellite networks. The company owns and operates a unique global mobile satellite network with a portfolio of mobile satellite solutions, including voice, fax, intranet and Internet access and other data services. At the end of February 2004, approximately 300,000 terminals were registered to access Inmarsat Ltd's services, of which over 60% were active in the previous 12 months. Inmarsat Ltd is also supported by partners in the fields of equipment manufacture, software provision and systems integration. The company delivers its communications solutions through a worldwide network of approximately 400 distributors and service providers to end users in the maritime, land and aeronautical sectors in approximately 170 countries. Inmarsat is the exclusive global partner of the FIA World Rally Championship.

Inmarsat can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.inmarsat.com/.

About Aruba Wireless Networks

Aruba Wireless Networks develops and markets centralized systems that enable corporations to secure their networks from the dual threats of Wi-Fi and mobility. Aruba's solution consists of a full range of programmable security platforms designed to securely connect mobile users and mobile devices to corporate applications. Aruba is privately-held and has operations in the United States, Europe, Asia Pacific and India and employs staff around the world. Aruba has received over $59 million in the three rounds of venture funding from top-tier venture firms -- Matrix Partners, Sequoia Capital, Trinity Ventures and WK Technology Fund.

Aruba Wireless Networks can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.arubanetworks.com/.

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