3Com has launched a range of routers that can integrate
with users' existing Cisco kit. The move should make it easier to
build "best-of-breed" networks.
The 6000 series of routers is designed to integrate with Juniper as
well as Cisco routers, giving firms another option when they want
to mix and match products from different suppliers.
The command line interfaces of the 3Com routers are similar to
those on Cisco products, meaning that potential users will not have
too many problems managing the kit. The pricing is also competitive
with similar Cisco products.
3Com is heavily promoting the concept of the best-of-breed network
in an attempt to persuade users with Cisco kit that they can get a
better deal if they use standards-based products from more than one
supplier.
3Com is playing catch-up after leaving the enterprise network
market at the beginning of the decade to cut its costs, only to
return again 18 months ago after striking a cut-price manufacturing
deal with Chinese supplier Huwaei.
Designed for wide area network connectivity for organisations with
distributed networks, 3Com's Router 6000 Family has come through
interoperability testing with Cisco and Juniper products in trials
carried out by research company Tolly Group.
"We see opportunities to give enterprise customers better value and
offer them a choice for enterprise-class Wan routers by providing
products that have all the relevant features of other leading
routers," said Udaya Shankar, 3Com's senior director of router
product management.
"The fact that routers have become essentially standardised,
whether through formal or de facto standards, means that the buying
criteria for routers have changed over the past few years. A
multi-supplier routed and switched network is a reality among
larger customers today.
"Enterprise customers can create an optimised IP infrastructure at
a lower cost of ownership, and can then deliver new services, such
as voice over IP and security services in a structure suitable to
them."
The Router 6000 provides a multi-service platform that allows users
to add future technologies and software features over time. As well
as a full range of routing protocols, the products support
Multi-Protocol Label Switching, quality of service technology and
IPsec VPN services.
Kevin Tolly, chief executive of Tolly Group, said, "The 3Com
routers are an attractive option for those looking for a second
router provider."
The 6000 family is aimed at the space occupied by the Cisco 3700
series of routers. Prices for the 3Com Router 6040 and 3Com Router
6080 start at £3,525 and £4,935 respectively.
Juniper for enterprise routing >>