Virtual Private Network Solutions

Two new carrier-class solutions, based on the CommWorks Architecture and Flagship Total Control 1000 Platform, have been designed to deliver virtual private network (VPN) services. The VPN solutions are media access independent and can be delivered via cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) wireless or remote access networks. With these solutions, service providers can offer enterprise customers secure, encrypted Internet connectivity for intranet, extranet and remote access.

The solutions incorporate multiple Total Control 1000 platforms, configured with a combination of Total Control 1000 access router card sets and Total Control 1000 digital signaling processor multispan card sets. Depending on the mix of cards, the platform functions as a VPN gateway, VPN concentrator, VPN terminator or VPN tunnel switch. This solution provides nearly 1.5 Gbps bandwidth and a minimum capacity of 32,000 tunnels with 3DES hardware encryption, up to 168 bit.
The new VPN solutions include:
• Standards-based VPN support for service providers serving customers that require IETF/RFC standards-based VPN protocol support for a multivendor network environment with enhanced security. Security includes L2TP/PPTP and IPSec encryption with 3DES. This solution consists of three Total Control 1000 platforms, configured to provide the functionality of the VPN concentrator, VPN terminator and VPN tunnel switch.

• Customer Controlled Access (CCA)-based VPN support for customers who need to provide per user tunnels with multiple customer support on a single VPN gateway Frame Relay-based network. In addition to providing standard VPN services and enhanced security, this solution includes features such as Virtual Terminal Protocol (VTP), private route tables, multiple virtual routers, and Permanent Virtual Circuits (PVCs).

VPN solutions are an integral part of the CommWorks architecture, which allows service providers to deliver narrowband enhanced data services, IP telephony, wireless data, and broadband access over a single converged network. As a component of tier one (the media processing layer) of the three-tier CommWorks architecture, the Total Control 1000 platform enables service providers to leverage existing infrastructure while migrating to next-generation IP-based networks.

3Com Corporation, 5400 Bayfront Plaza, P.O. Box 58145, Santa Clara, CA 95052-8145. Tel: 408-326-5000; Fax: 408-326-5001.