The `grey marketing` of products and components is on the rise in the networking industry, with some estimates claiming that as many as 10% of all transactions in SA are linked to `pirate` operators.
Martin May, regional director of Enterasys Networks SA, one of the major distributors of networking products, supports this research. He says pirate activity has increased significantly over the last 12 months due to the ready availability of "grey" parts and components on Internet sites, which have proliferated over the last year.
"Users have been able to find low cost, low quality copies, or grey components, particularly interface cards, switches and hubs, from Internet sites. However, users should realise that these products will not be supported in SA and they are `on their own` when it comes to technical back-up."
May says the industry is fighting back: "At Enterasys SA we have stepped up serial number tracking and have the full backing of our head office in the US to identify and cut unauthorised supply routes."
May stresses that the only secure option is to purchase from an authorised channel. "The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages in the long-term.
"For example, Enterasys` LANcare for Life programme is available to legitimate customers. This scheme effectively ensures the viability and operability of the network for the future. It is one of the best options a user can employ to minimise costly down time and keep abreast of the latest technology," he says.
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