CipherOptics Secures $10 Million for Network Security Appliances

CipherOptics, a start-up based in Raleigh, North Carolina, raised $10.3 million in Series C round of venture funding for its high-speed network security appliances. CipherOptics offers a government-certified solution that encrypts data at full Gigabit line-rates with minimal latency for transmission over non-secure wired or wireless networks.



The financing, led by Adams Capital Management, was supported by existing investors, including Kodiak Venture Partners, Origin Partners L.P., and Axiom Venture Partners. http://www.cipheroptics.com

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Covad Sees Lower UNE T-1s Rates in California

Commenting on the decision by the California Public Utilities Commission last week to specify permanent rates for certain unbundled network elements (UNE), Covad Communications noted that while the rates for most UNE-L and UNE-P elements was increased, the rate for UNE T-1 was decreased. The order substantially decreased average monthly recurring charges for UNE T-1s, from $93.91 to $57.42. In the most densely populated areas, where most of Covad's subscriber base resides, the T-1 rate dropped from $89.68 to $49.49 a month.



In a statement, Jim Kirkland, senior vice president and general counsel for Covad, said "Lower T1 rates will help us meet the growing demand for reasonably priced business-class VoIP services. In addition, the rate increases for UNE-L loops are at or below the rates Covad typically pays for UNE-L loops nationwide. Since Covad is a facilities-based provider, we do not rely on unbundled switching from the ILECs or UNE-P, where the rate increases were more substantial. The increase in some rates for Covad is offset by the significant decrease in other loop rates."http://www.covad.com

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Viola Raises $11 Million for VoIP Performance Management Software

Viola Networks has secured an additional $11.1 million in venture funding for its has secured an additional $11.1 million. Viola's NetAlly RealTime software can be used by service providers for pre-service network readiness assessment, post deployment voice quality and VoIP capacity management, as well as on-demand network troubleshooting, as required by real-time VoIP applications. Participating in this latest round are Evergreen Partners, M/C Venture Partners and Concord Ventures. http://www.ViolaNetworks.comViola Networks has offices in Yoqneam, Israel & King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

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Motorola Makes Investment in Bluefire Security Technologies

Motorola Venture has made an equity investment in Bluefire Security Technologies, a start-up that addresses wireless security threats with centrally managed, multi- layered software. The company's flagship product, Bluefire Mobile Firewall Plus, is a handheld security solution that protects lost and stolen devices, prevents attacks and unauthorized access, enforces security policies and monitors activity on devices. The Bluefire Mobile Firewall Plus provides authentication (user password enforcement), encryption (of the data on the device) and an integrated mobile VPN and firewall, without consuming significant processor resources or memory on the device. Financial details of the investment were not disclosed. http://www.bluefiresecurity.com

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Axiowave and Veraz Partner on ATM-Grade SLAs for VOIP

Axiowave Networks and Veraz Networks announced a marketing partnership targeting ATM-Grade SLAs for VOIP services. The joint solution combines the Veraz ControlSwitch, a programmable softswitch platform, with Axiowave's new line of core/metro network routers. http://www.axiowave.comhttp://www.Veraznetworks.com

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Song Networks Tests Optillion's 10 Gbps XENPAK

Song Networks, a major Pan-Nordic telecom operator, completed a fist round of interoperability testing of 10 Gbps WAN PHY XENPAK modules from Optillion.



For the field trial, the Optillion TOP 4010 WAN PHY transceiver along with Nortel's Optera LH OC-192 DWDM transmission equipment and Extreme Network's Black Diamond 6800 10 Gbps Ethernet switch were used. One 10 GbE traffic pipe was carried between two points extending a distance of more than 600 km. For the Ethernet data rate, it was adapted to 9.95 Gbps to match the OC-192 requirement and then transparently SONET/SDH framed by the Optillion XENPAK module. http://www.optillion.com

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China Telecom Selects Nortel Networks' LH Optical Gear

China Telecom will deploy Nortel Networks Optical Long Haul 1600 Optical Line Systems to expand its optical backbone networks in the cities of Wuhan, Guangzhou, Changsha, Fuzhou, Shanghai, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Hefei, Chongqing, and Chengdu. The expansion, scheduled for completion by the end of 2004, will boost transmission capacity to approximately 10 Gbps x 30 wavelengths.



In addition, China Telecom's Shanghai Telecom and Zhejiang Telecom branches will use Nortel Networks Services Edge Router (SER) 5500 to expand their data networks. The expansions will enable the two branches to serve an additional 500,000 and 1.8 million broadband subscribers, respectively, with enhanced delivery of advanced IP broadband services like high-speed Internet access, IP VPNs and "Green Internet," a special content filtering and blocking service for parents to monitor children's activities on the Internet.



Financial terms were not disclosed.



According to China's Ministry of Information Industries, for the nine months ending June 30, 2004, the number of China's fixed line and mobile users combined increased from 500 million to 600 million, while broadband Internet subscribers hit 17 million with a monthly growth rate of eight percent. http://www.nortelnetworks.com

• As of the end of 2003, China Telecom's broadband Internet subscribers reached 5.63 million, and its fixed line subscribers hit 118 million.

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Telekomunikacja Polska Extends DSL Contract with Lucent

Telekomunikacja Polska (TP) has extended an existing frame contact under Lucent Technologies supplies its Stinger DSL equipment. The extended frame agreement, which is valued at EUR 100 million, covers continued installation of the Stinger xDSL broadband access concentrators throughout TP's network. These form the basis of TP's neostrada tp and internet DSL tp broadband access offers for enterprise and residential customers, enabling Internet access as well as new services such as video over DSL or VoIP for broadband subscribers in the future. http://www.lucent.com

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Infonet Builds Global IP MPLS Network for Munich Re Group

Infonet Services Corporation announced the completion of a new global MPLS IP VPN for the Munich Re Group, one of the world's largest reinsurers. The new network replaces Munich Re's previous Frame Relay network and connects more than 60 sites in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. http://www.infonet.com

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Tropos Networks Cites Momentum for its Metro-Scale Wi-Fi Mesh

Philadelphia is further expanding its free Internet access metro-scale Wi-Fi network to cover some of the city's most famous landmarks using Tropos Networks' Wi-Fi System. The Philadelphia Wi-Fi network utilizes Tropos 5110 Wi-Fi cells, an outdoor-optimized and ruggedized wireless mesh router based on the 802.11 standard. The Tropos Predictive Wireless Routing Protocol (PWRP) routes traffic wirelessly, eliminating up to 95% of the wired backhaul associated with traditional access point deployments. Syndeo Communications of Lafayette, Louisiana, provides the planning and installation of the metro-scale Wi-Fi network.



Separately, Tropos Networks announced that Oklahoma City had selected its open-standard metro-scale Wi-Fi mesh architecture to provide secure and reliable mobile broadband to public safety officers throughout the entire 400 square mile footprint of the city. The Oklahoma City network will utilize a combination of Tropos fixed and newly-announced mobile Wi-Fi cells.



Oklahoma City voters approved a $78 million bond issue to complete the replacement of their existing 20 year old communications system. The city is deploying an advanced end-to-end communications system incorporating the latest technology in computer aided dispatch, in-field reporting systems, records management, GPS tracking systems, Web-based crime databases, mapping systems, and video monitoring. Police officers in the field will have access to high-resolution photos, incident video feeds, and detailed crime databases through their in-vehicle computer systems. Fire officials will have access to detailed mapping and GPS systems, as well as detailed structure plan databases, in their vehicles and mobile command centers. http://www.tropos.com

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Tropos Unveils Mobile Wi-Fi Cell for In-Vehicle Deployment

Tropos Networks introduced a high powered and flexible mobile Wi-Fi cell for in-vehicle deployment. The platform could be used in public safety vehicles (police cars, ambulances, fire trucks, etc) to extend tactical networks into uncovered areas on a temporary basis. The new product incorporates the Tropos Sphere Network Operating System (NOS) and the company's Predictive Wireless Routing Protocol (PWRP). It transmits at the maximum FCC allowable EIRP of 36 dBm, overcoming the transmission power limitations of most Wi-Fi clients (which typically transmit at 20 dBm or less). http://www.tropos.com

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China Netcom Selects Alvarion/Siemens for Broadband Wireless Expansion

China Netcom is expanding its deployment of the Alvarion 3.5GHz Broadband Wireless solution to additional sites in four provinces with its strategic partner, Siemens Communication Networks Ltd., Beijing (SCNB), a joint venture of Siemens AG and Chinese enterprises. The sites targeted for deployment are in the provinces of Sichuan, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, and Hunan. Financial terms were not disclosed.



China Netcom recently secured part of the 3.5GHz licenses awarded in the third round of China's frequency allocation process. China Netcom plans to use broadband wireless to provide small-and medium-sized customers with a variety of services and applications, including IP-based access , VoIP, high-speed Internet access and leased lines (E1 and Fractional E1). http://www.alvarion.comhttp://www.bisc.com.cn

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NEC Achieve 10-Fold Increase in Quantum Cryptography Key Generation Rate

Researchers in Japan succeeded in realizing the world's fastest 100 kbps 40-km-long quantum cryptography key generation, surpassing previous records. Achieved through a newly developed quantum cryptography system adopting a novel method, this key generation enables secure network communication supported by the principles of quantum mechanical physics. The technology could be used for quantum cryptography transmissions in optical networks in metropolitan areas.



The research was conducted by NEC, the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NiCT), and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). http://www.nec.co.jp

• In June 2004, BBN Technologies announced what it describes as "the world's first quantum cryptography network." The DARPA Quantum Network, which links BBN's campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts to Harvard University and soon Boston University, uses quantum cryptography to provide extremely high-levels of security for Internet traffic.



• Quantum cryptography, invented by Charles Bennett and Giles Brassard in the 1980s, prepares and transmits single photons of light, through either fiber optic cable or the atmosphere, to distribute cryptographic keys that are used to encrypt and decrypt messages. BBN said this method of securing information is radically different from methods based on mathematical complexity, relying instead on fundamental physical laws. Because very small (quantum) particles are changed by any observation or measurement, eavesdropping on a quantum cryptography system is always detectable.
  BBN is developing protocols to pave the way for robust quantum networks on a larger scale by providing "any to any" networking of quantum cryptography through a mesh of passive optical switches and cryptographic key relays.



• In March 2004, NEC claimed a new distance record of 150 km for a single photon transmission -- a feat that might enable secure network communication based on principles of quantum mechanical physics. The result was achieved through a newly developed quantum cryptography system consisting of optical planar circuits based on Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) technology. NEC said quantum cryptography transmissions in optical networks could some day to used metropolitan areas for truly secure communications.

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Thomson Signs Set-Top Box Deal with BSkyB

BSkyB selected Thomson for the production of its newest version of the Sky+ digital satellite receiver and integrated digital video recorder (DVR). The Sky+ 160 box will feature a 160 GB hard disk delivering an average of 80 hours recording capacity. It also features USB 2.0 connectivity for future applications and is based on xTV, the DVR and extended conditional access system from NDS. The DVR functionality will be identical to that of the existing leading Sky+ product line. The units are expected to cost GBP 399 when they launch in October. http://www.thomson.net

• As of June 2004 there were 397,000 Sky+ subscribers in the UK and Ireland.



• Sky digital launched in October 1998 and is now available in 7.4 million homes in the UK and Ireland.

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Zhone Adds IP Video Decoder to PON ONU

Zhone Technologies has added optional IP Video decoders to its line of residential gateways for PONs. By integrating the IP video decoder, the Zhone Residential Gateways (ZRGs), which may be installed either inside or outside the home, allow carriers to deliver multiple video streams to televisions throughout the home using existing in-home coax wiring. Use of in-home wiring not only eliminates costly, disruptive and time consuming recabling, but also eliminates the need for external set top boxes or modems. Video delivery over Ethernet using third-party set-top boxes is also available as an option. The gateways are available with either RF or IP video distribution .RF video employs B-PON (ITU-T G.983.3 Enhancement Band RF) signals, demodulated at the ZRG for delivery over coax to subscriber TVs.



The gateways also feature integrated voice functions with up to four lines of POTS service using either VoATM or VoIP, with standard SIP or MGCP signaling. A 2-port 10/100B-T Ethernet interface with advanced IP features provides direct access to Internet and private data services on one port, with a separate port providing IP video services to high-end external set top boxes. The gateways are available as PON Optical Network Terminal/Units (ONT/ONU) for use in fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) or copper based units for fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC) networks.



http://www.zhone.com

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Colubris Introduces Wi-Fi QoS Based on 802.11e and WMM

Colubris Networks introduced "Service Aware Wi-Fi QoS" software for its Multiservice Wireless LAN System. The new software, which is compliant with 802.11e and WMM (Wi-Fi MultiMedia), provides service (SSID) defined QoS for legacy and next generation voice, data and video services and applications. Colubris said his enables QoS for differentiated data, 802.11e/SIP/H.323 and other voice devices, video, retail handhelds and also non-protocol devices - such as lifeline and video surveillance devices - simultaneously over a shared, centrally managed WLAN.



The Colubris Networks WLAN System provides Centralized WLAN Management, WLAN Services Controllers and Intelligent Access Devices. http://www.colubris.com

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Leucadia Sells Stake in MCI

Leucadia National Corporation has sold its interest in MCI stock for an aggregate pre-tax gain of
approximately $20 million (inclusive of dividends received). Leucadia said the sale of MCI stock should not be interpreted to mean that it is no longer interested in acquiring control of MCI, but that no assurance could be given that it would pursue the issue either. http://www.leucadia.com

• In July 2004, Leucadia National Corporation, a holding company involved in a variety of businesses, is seeking clearance from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) to acquire at least 50% of MCI's common stock.
  
  
• Last year, Leucadia National Corporation acquired full control of WilTel Communications following its emergence from bankruptcy protection.

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Defense Contracts form Network Centric Operations Industry Consortium

A new Network Centric Operations Industry Consortium has been established by leading global companies in aerospace, communications, defense, and information systems in order to develop a common network centric environment, allow for technical interoperability, and provide guidance to develop common standards for the departments or ministries of defense and the intelligence, homeland security, and law enforcement agencies of allied nations. The group noted that some of the most advanced defense systems in the world have been developed over the past decade, yet many of these complex systems exist as standalone islands that were not designed to be interoperable.



The NCOI consortium said it would work with government agencies to complete an analysis of pertinent network architectures, capability needs and mandated open standards to identify commonalities, synergies, conflicts, gaps and potential areas for improvement. The goal would be to develop a secure information management overarching architectural framework / reference model. The initial will be on the GIG, NCOW, ForceNet, C2CNet, LandWarNet, and DCGS projects.



Founding members include BAE Systems, Boeing, CACI, CBT, Cisco Systems, EADS, EMC Corporation, Ericsson, Factiva, Finmeccanica, General Dynamics, HP, Honeywell, IBM, Innerwall, L-3 Communications, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems Sector, Oracle, Raytheon Company, Rockwell Collins, Saab, SAIC, Smiths Aerospace, Sun Microsystems, Thales and Themis. The Open Group serves as the consortium's management firm. http://www.ncoic.org/

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Bank of America Deploys Cisco IP Telephony to 180,000 Desktops

Bank of America will deploy 180,000 Cisco IP telephones throughout 5,800 banking centers and enterprise locations across the U.S. The deployment, which will eliminate a disparate collection of 362 PBXs in favor of a converged Cisco IP Communications system, will occur in phases over the next three years. Cisco said the move to IP telephony would yield productivity gains by:

• unifying more than 100,000 employee voice-mail boxes installed on a variety of voice messaging platforms with a single Cisco Unity voice messaging system



• providing Integrated access to data from enterprise business applications



• Extensible Markup Language (XML)-based applications customized for specific bank departments and lines of business



• enabling greater employee mobility through increased telephony features and improved access to communication tools



• provide the ability to extend contact center resources to multiple locations.

http://www.cisco.com

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AT&T Expands Global IP Capabilities

AT&T announced a series of enhancements to its global IP network, including:

• expansion into markets such as China, Thailand, India and Costa Rica, as well as integration with Alestra's network in Mexico;



• a growing volume of live customer traffic over recently deployed long-haul Optical Carrier (OC)-768-ready fiber from San Francisco to Seattle, transmitting data up to 40 Gbps on a single fiber strand;



• expanding broadband remote access options by increasing global WiFi access from 2,900 to 4,000 hot spots, wired Ethernet from 600 U.S. locations to 1,200 globally, and DSL from 6,300 U.S. central offices to 8,000;



• extension of its network disaster recovery capabilities into Europe; and



• opening of four new Internet Data Centers in Frankfurt, Paris, Tokyo and London, expanding its footprint to 25 centers on four continents.

http://www.att.com

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