New Dial-up offerings from Cisco Systems improve accessibility, security for telecommuters, mobile workers, small offices.

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 13, 1995--Cisco Systems has introduced new hardware and software designed to improve the ability of remote users to dial into corporate networks -- and ensure them that their data is secure when they do so.

Cisco's three-pronged announcement of remote-access offerings for dial-up users includes a single-box access server platform that integrates the Cisco Internetwork Operating System (IOS) with a bank of modems; two software packages that let telecommuters and mobile workers easily dial into IP- and IPX-based networks; and a new security protocol that helps network administrators build complete security systems for dial-up users.

Kevin Kennedy, product management director of Cisco's remote access products, said, "Dial-up access has emerged as the most cost-effective way to address the demand for remote access, which is growing explosively as more and more users discover they can work effectively at home or on the road. Cisco's products not only provide new ways for users to achieve remote access, but give them confidence that their dial-up communications will be secure."

The three announcements are:

-- The AS5100 Integrated Access Server, which combines a version of Cisco's Model 2500 Access Server with the Total Control Enterprise Network Hub from U.S. Robotics. The AS5100 supports 48 dial-up connections, triple the density of Cisco's stand-alone access servers. Designed to link either individuals or remote LANs to enterprise internetworks, the AS5100 can also serve as a high-density solution for the growing number of service providers offering dial-up access to the global Internet. Prices for fully loaded chassis start at $56,000; availability is immediate.

-- Two third-party client software packages that permit dial-up access to IP- and IPX-based corporate networks: TCPpro Remote Access Client, from Network TeleSystems, Inc., of Santa Clara, Calif.; and Remote Office Gold v.2.0, from Stampede Technologies, Inc., of Dayton, Ohio. Beginning today, users of any Cisco access server (including the new AS5100) can choose one of two client software options; both operate on laptop or desktop PCs running Microsoft Windows, Windows for Workgroups or DOS.

-- TACACS+, a new version of Cisco's Terminal Access Controller Access Control protocol which adds support for independent user authentication, authorization and accounting. TACACS+, now in the process of IETF standardization, will be included in the Cisco IOS in second quarter 1995 and supported across the company's router and access server product families.

Cisco also announced that it has manufactured more than 100,000 Cisco 2500 remote access routers since January 1994.

Cisco Systems, Inc. is the leading global supplier of enterprise networks, including routers, LAN and ATM switches, dial-up access servers and network management software. These products, integrated by Cisco's Internetwork Operating System (IOS) link geographically dispersed LANs, WANs and IBM networks. Cisco is headquartered in San Jose, Calif., and in the U.S. is traded under the NASDAQ symbol CSCO.

CONTACT: Cisco Systems, Inc.

Randall Sutherland, 408/526-8847

Ulevich & Orrange, Inc.

William Orrange or Janis Ulevich, 415/329-1590