Nokia Unveils IP VPN Offerings

The new offerings complement the company's existing security solutions with newfound mobility that New York City-based Nokia previously did not offer, said Dan Reis, senior product marketing manager of Nokia Enterprise Solutions.

"We're providing a solution that's optimized for the mobile environment," he said. "This is a huge opportunity for channel partners to offer cost-effective and robust solutions to existing customers and open up new solutions for new customers."

The new IP VPN line incorporates Nokia's patent-pending Meta-Hop technology to help ensure seamless user connectivity from the mobile device to the application, even if a connection is disrupted. With Meta-Hop, mobile end-users are able to connect to IP-based applications securely and stay connected through self-healing networks that track multiple connection paths and maintain a consistent connection.

The new technology combines integrated mobility and self-learning and resilience on the gateway itself, said Dawnmarie Martin, senior category manager for security at Ingram Micro. The device should help security resellers sell mobility, and mobility resellers sell security, she said.

"Nokia gives our solution providers the opportunity to play in both marketplaces and implement a total solution," Martin said.

Among the IP VPN gateways, Nokia is offering four devices with three different levels of VPN performance. The 100i, designed for mid- to large-sized companies, supports up to 310 mpbs of throughput. The 50i, for branch enterprise offices, supports up to 125 mpbs. The 10i, for small and remote offices, and the 5i, ideal for small offices needing high-speed broadband connectivity, both top out at 75 mbps.

Pricing for the new VPN gateways starts at $395 and rises from there. The Nokia Mobile VPN Client and VPN Managers come with the gateways.

Nokia also offers global service and support as add-ons for all components of the new IP VPN line. All products are available to channel partners immediately.