Nextel Delivers Secure, Fast and Efficient Data Access to Mobile Workers with a Mobile VPN Solution That Leverages IBM Software; Solution is Part of the Nextel Alliance with IBM.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

RESTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 21, 2003

Nextel Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:NXTL), a leading provider of fully integrated digital wireless communications, today announced it is offering a new mobile Virtual Private Network (VPN) solution that uses IBM (NYSE:IBM) software to provide mobile workers a higher level of security, faster response times and more efficient access to key enterprise data anywhere on Nextel's all-digital packet data network.

The IBM software, WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager (WECM), allows Nextel subscribers to utilize a standards-based VPN platform that provides reliable, secure, high-speed connections to wirelessly access mission-critical data.

WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager helps corporate IT departments streamline the systems they need to support corporate customers by providing a consistent platform that offers network optimization, end-to-end security and scalability which reduces costs and improves user experience.

"WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager offers enterprise customers a middleware solution that is faster, better, less expensive and simpler than what is currently available," said Ernie Cormier, Nextel vice president for Business Solutions. "That is the centerpiece of what Nextel's Wireless Business Solutions is about - improving the productivity and efficiency of companies by bringing real-time information to remote decision-makers. IBM WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager clearly does that."

"Customers extending their existing IT infrastructure running IBM software across Nextel's national network can look forward to gaining secure access to key information on-demand from virtually anyplace and at anytime," said Adel Al-Saleh, general manager, IBM Wireless e-Business Solutions. "Based on open industry standards across the IT spectrum, the solution supports a framework to provide true interoperability so customers can improve productivity, earn a rapid return on investment and expand markets."

Enterprises using WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager receive the following benefits:

Network performance optimization - Data compression resulting in up to two to three times faster response and lower data volumes over the network, offering a better user experience and lowering network costs.

High security - Strong end-to-end data encryption, including Data Encryption Standard (DES), Triple DES, RC5, and Advanced Encryption Standard, allowing a customer to extend applications to the mobile user without compromising their security policies and data security.

Increased efficiency - Integrates data access so that applications and data can be made available to mobile users, eliminating the need for multiple solutions and gateways. WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager's administration tools are easy to use and allows administrators to remotely manage and configure any number of WebSphere Everyplace Connection Manager gateways from a central location reducing management, administration and IT costs.

The Nextel Alliance with IBM is part of Nextel's Wireless Business Solutions (WBS) platform that combines partnerships, applications, services, tools and the support companies need to achieve high performance by delivering real-time information to mobile decision makers at any location, enabling quick response among workers in the field and streamlining operations through faster exchange of information.

About Nextel

Nextel Communications, a Fortune 300 company based in Reston, Va., is a leading provider of fully integrated wireless communications services and has built the largest guaranteed all-digital wireless network in the country covering thousands of communities across the United States. Nextel and Nextel Partners, Inc., currently serve 198 of the top 200 U.S. markets.

Through recent market launches, Nextel and Nextel Partners service is available today in areas of the U.S. where approximately 240 million people live or work.

About IBM

IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. Drawing on resources from across IBM and key business partners, IBM offers a wide range of services, solutions and technologies that enable customers to take full advantage of the on demand era. More information about IBM can be found on the web at www.ibm.com.