Annex Distribution to supply new stackable switch from 3Com

Annex Distribution is to stock and supply the industry`s first stackable LAN (local area network) switch by 3Com Corporation. The new 3Com Switch 4500 family is designed specifically to address the growing need for robust security and support of voice over IP (VOIP) and other convergence applications.

According to 3Com Corporation, the product, available in 26-port and 50-port models, combines standards-based security for user authentication, support for the new TippingPoint TM X505, the first integrated security platform built upon Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) technology and dynamic `plug-and-play` support for multiple vendors` VOIP services.

The new switch family has intelligent quality of service (QoS) features to automatically prioritise voice traffic, along with Power over Ethernet models ideal for running effective VOIP solutions.

Bill Gradwell, general manager of Annex Distribution, expands on the benefits of the managed 10/100 switch, suggesting it will make a significant difference to small and medium enterprise customers, particularly in terms of migrating to secure converged IP communications.

"Among the advantages of the 3Com Switch 4500 is its ability to recognise any VOIP service. It includes extensive Layer 2 switching and Layer 3 routing functionality required for today`s demanding business networks. This latest switch family has been incorporated into our offering and we are very exciting over the prospect of getting it out there into the market," says Gradwell.