South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Chooses 3Com/H3C Enterprise Networking Solutions for its Networking Infrastructure

October 21, 2009 2:20 PM EDT

Scalable, robust, secure network provides lifeline for South Africa's social grant payouts

JOHANNESBURG--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- 3Com Corporation (Nasdaq: COMS) today announced that the South African government's Social Security Agency (SASSA) has chosen a distributed network of H3C and 3Com-branded solutions to run its vast social security grant system across the country. The agency manages monthly payouts to 13 million people, mainly in remote rural areas, totalling US$7 billion annually.

The $12 million deal is for the implementation of a national network for 600 branch offices around the country during the next three years.

The scalable, robust network is being built around H3C(R) MSR multi-service routers and 3Com core and edge Ethernet switches. IP telephony between the branch offices is provided by a 3Com VCX(R) IP communications solution. The network is being built to support 15,000 users, and implementation is planned to be completed by the end of 2011.

Maintaining its commitment to customer service, 3Com will provide a dedicated on-site network engineer at SASSA's offices for the next three years to ensure that the rollout proceeds smoothly. Direct links with local and international 3Com service/support resources ensure rapid problem solving and access to the latest technology.

SASSA's executive manager: IT, Luvuyo Keyise, says, "SASSA selected 3Com as the preferred networking supplier because we are convinced that the technology is robust enough for our unique requirements. We also wanted to commit to a company that has the ability to grow with us. We have built a relationship with 3Com and believe the company has the right skills, products and commitment to adding value. This gives us confidence that their solution will sustain our nation-wide networking strategy."

3Com Africa's Regional Sales Director Derek Wiggill says that the SASSA assignment will be a showcase for 3Com's technology, value and skills in the region.

"In this economic climate, when government has reduced tax revenues to spend on building infrastructure, it is vital that they get top value from suppliers. This deal clearly illustrates the client's flight to value."

In addition, says Wiggill, "Implementing a network that delivers crucial support to disadvantaged people is critical to government. There is very little room for technology that cannot withstand the rigours of operating in rugged areas where infrastructure and skills are under constant pressure. This is why our remote maintenance solutions are key."

About 3Com Corporation

3Com Corporation is a $1.3 billion global enterprise networking solutions provider that sets a new price/performance standard for customers. 3Com has three global brands--H3C, 3Com, and TippingPoint--that offer high-performance networking and security solutions to enterprises large and small. The H3C enterprise networking portfolio--a market leader in China--includes products that span from the data center to the edge of the network, while TippingPoint(R) network-based intrusion prevention systems and network access control solutions deliver in-depth, no-compromise application, infrastructure and performance protection.

Safe Harbor

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal law, including statements regarding the future supply of solutions to end users in South Africa. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially. For a discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with our business, please refer to 3Com's most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for 3Com's first fiscal quarter of fiscal 2010.

Copyright(C) 2009 3Com Corporation. 3Com, the 3Com logo, H3C TippingPoint, and VCX are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation or its wholly owned subsidiaries in various countries around the world. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective holders.

    Source: 3Com Corporation

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