Global Communications and Wi-Fi Leader Inmarsat Switches To Aruba Wireless Networks


Inmarsat selects Aruba to bring wireless networking up to speed


SAN JOSE, CA -/18 Oct, 2004 - Wi-Fi Technology News/- Inmarsat, the world leader in mobile and satellite communications, has selected Aruba Wireless Networks to replace its existing Wireless LAN (WLAN). Aruba's centralised WLAN switching system will provide seamless mobile computing capabilities for 500 Inmarsat employees throughout its London Headquarters and global branch offices in Europe, the Middle East and North America.

Inmarsat has used 802.11b wireless technology since 1999. It is undertaking a system-wide migration to a centralised architecture from Aruba to increase the performance, security and ongoing management of its entire wireless network.

"The decision to migrate to a centrally switched 802.11a network after four years was primarily driven by a desire for increased performance and RF security," said Peter Smith, IT director at Inmarsat. "We detected at least 10 other wireless networks in the immediate vicinity of our London office and in order to avoid any potential interference issues, and improve security, we decided to move to the less-common 802.11a standard. It also gave us the boost in performance we desired - from 11Mbps to 54 - and the fast roaming our experienced users demand."

Inmarsat was supplied with a total of seven stackable switches including three Aruba 2400s and five Aruba 800s. 40 centrally configured 'thin' APs will provide network access as well as performing RF monitoring functions.

"The Aruba system also allows us to more easily manage and better secure the network from a single physical location, providing a full view and complete control over authenticated users, and guest, security and access policies," added Smith.

Inmarsat selected Aruba because both the company and product best met a variety of technical criteria including interoperability with existing, operating security systems. Combined with Inmarsat's firewall software, secure VPN connectivity managed from the Aruba switch allows users to access the corporate network securely from home, partner sites or Wi-Fi hotspots enabling a truly mobile workforce.

"We know that with the Aruba kit, we are making a good long-term investment," added Peter Smith. "The kit has been extensively tested and is future proofed for applications such as voice that leverage the network to provide unique services to the mobile user."

"We are delighted to announce this upgrade installation by Inmarsat. The idea that fast and secure wireless networking is a utility in the modern office environment is an excellent sign for the future of this company's approach to WLAN," said Albert Benhamou, Vice President EMEA at Aruba Wireless Networks. "Aruba's suite of secure, centrally-controlled WLAN switching solutions, provides ease of access for users while retaining comprehensive management features for IT staff."



About Inmarsat
Inmarsat came into being as an IGO in 1979 to provide global safety and other communications for the maritime community. Starting with a customer base of 900 ships in the early 1980s, it then grew rapidly to offer similar services to other users on land and in the air, until in 1999 it became the first IGO to be transformed into a private company. It now supports links for phone, fax and data communications to more than 287,000 ship, vehicle, aircraft and other mobile users. Visit Inmarsat at http://www.inmarsat.com

About Aruba Wireless Networks, Inc.
Aruba Wireless Networks develops and markets centralized systems that enable corporations to secure their networks from the dual threats of Wi-Fi and mobility. Aruba's solution consists of a full range of programmable security platforms designed to securely connect mobile users and mobile devices to corporate applications. Aruba is privately-held and has operations in the United States, Europe, Asia Pacific and India and employs staff around the world. Aruba has received over $59 million in three rounds of venture funding from top-tier venture firms - Matrix Partners, Sequoia Capital, Trinity Ventures and WK Technology Fund. Visit Aruba Wireless Networks at http://www.arubanetworks.com