NETCOM introduces suite of connectivity solutions designed to improve the quality of users' on-line communications; small and mid-size businesses to benefit from increased efficiency and productivity.

TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 24, 1997--NETCOM On-Line Communication Services, Inc. (NASD:NETC) today announced three new Internet connectivity services for the small and mid-size business markets.

NETCOM DirectConnect, NETCOM SecureConnect and NETCOM SiteConnect build on the company's successful dedicated access services and are designed to increase businesses' on-line efficiency and productivity.

"By introducing flexible connectivity services - from communication services to security features - NETCOM meets the needs of businesses that require robust offerings today and into the future," said David W. Garrison, NETCOM's chairman and chief operating officer. "This suite of solutions enhances customers' existing dedicated access foundation and is designed to address specific communication problems."

Prior to implementing the services, NETCOM representatives consult with customers to determine the best connectivity package based upon their needs, including communication goals, network requirements, hardware, software and bandwidth requirements.

NETCOM DirectConnect enables small to mid-size businesses to fortify their on-line connection to ensure optimal network performance. The NETCOM DirectConnect service solution is built upon NETCOM's dedicated access services and features Automatic Reconnect. In times of trouble, Automatic Reconnect automatically reroutes customers' traffic to an alternate ISDN line so customers remain connected. It also features a password-protected web site with on-line usage statistics so customers can proactively evaluate network utilization, and Newsserver access. NETCOM DirectConnect gives customers the power to guarantee employee productivity and efficiency through continual network monitoring.

As customers' needs grow or networking goals change, NETCOM can re-evaluate customers' existing access and hardware configuration and provide scalable options such as increased line speed or high-performance routing. NETCOM DirectConnect is available immediately for $400 a month, with toll-free, 24x7 support.

NETCOM SecureConnect serves small to mid-size businesses that need a secure and reliable solution for sending information over the public network. The NETCOM SecureConnect service is also built on NETCOM's dedicated access services and includes security needs assessments, maintenance, configuration and monitoring. The technology allows secure communication between branch offices and off-site employees while keeping internal networks protected. To determine businesses' security requirements, NETCOM performs a security assessment and then implements a flexible and secure solution. As part of the package, NETCOM monitors and troubleshoots NETCOM SecureConnect, eliminating the need to hire a security consultant.

NETCOM SecureConnect uses the power of the Internet to increase productivity and profitability by allowing businesses to conduct real-time business communications over the Internet and to email sensitive data to partners instead of faxing or mailing.

NETCOM SecureConnect comes with toll-free, 24x7 support and is available immediately for a monthly fee that can range from anywhere between $400-$800, depending on the level of security required.

NETCOM SiteConnect connects an internally managed web site to the Internet using NETCOM's high-speed, reliable access, from fractional T1 lines to full T3 lines. The speed of access to the site is determined by the number of expected visits and is flexible and scalable to grow as web site traffic increases. The NETCOM SiteConnect service, built on NETCOM's dedicated access service includes additional domain name registration, additional IP addresses and Automatic Reconnect service that automatically reroutes a customers' disabled line to another networking path so customers' web sites are connected and available at all times.

NETCOM SiteConnect is the easy solution to web site management and comes with toll-free, 24x7 support. NETCOM SiteConnect is available immediately for $400 a month.

NETCOM DirectConnect, NETCOM SecureConnect and NETCOM SiteConnect monthly fees are in addition to NETCOM's dedicated access fees. Recommended upgrade services which include high performance routing, back-up storage, remote access, Global Roaming, web hosting and extra bandwidth can be purchased any time for all three connectivity solutions.

About NETCOM

NETCOM On-Line Communication Services, Inc. provides high-quality, technology based solutions that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of customers. Leveraging years of Internet experience, NETCOM simplifies technology for customers by providing practical and flexible access, hosting and connectivity services targeted at the personal, small and mid-size business markets. All services are backed by the Company's expansive high-speed network and year-round, 24-hour support. Additional information on the Company can be found at http://www.netcom.com/ . -0-

NOTE TO EDITORS: NETCOM On-Line Communication Services is a registered trademark of the Company.

Certain of the above statements are forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially as a result of a variety of factors, including competitive developments and risk factors listed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports.

CONTACT: NETCOM

Danielle Matthews, 408/881-3810

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