Dubai, October 10, 2004 U.S. Robotics, the leading provider of Internet connectivity solutions, has joined hands with QualityNet, Kuwait's leading Internet Services Provider (ISP), to enhance secure connectivity speeds for the ISP's ADSL subscribers. The agreement was signed at the U.S. Robotics stand during GITEX Dubai 2004, currently being held at Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC). Under the scope of the promotion, DSL subscribers will receive a U.S. Robotics SureConnect Wireless ADSL Gateway (USR 9106), as well as a PCI or PC card, along with their subscription.

"U.S. Robotics prides itself on developing products that facilitate the adoption of sophisticated connectivity technologies without requiring technical assistance. The user-friendly measure of a technology is a good indication of its adoption by a wide user base. This is why U.S. Robotics has consistently invested in local approvals, local language support including Arabic language installation guide and custom software development to facilitate seamless connectivity with local ISP settings," said Peter Blampied, Director of Sales and Operations, EMEA, U.S. Robotics. "The agreement with QualityNet is of special significance, because it acknowledges this aspect of U.S. Robotics products."

QualityNet is currently the leading provider of ADSL connections in Kuwait. It already has a big DSL subscriber base with a growth of 25 % every year. With the new agreement in place, the Internet service provider expects to enhance its ADSL bundle with products that offer more flexibility in terms of mobility & number of simultaneous Internet users, without compromising on security.

"QualityNet has seized the opportunities offered by the emerging new telecom technologies to provide a total solution for new generation Networks with strategic partnerships and innovative solutions," said Waleed Al-Qallaf GM Marketing & Sales at QualityNet. "In the quest to be recognised as Kuwait's leading Telecommunications Services provider, QualityNet is constantly in search of partnerships that will add value to our subscription offers. With the new agreement with U.S. Robotics, DSL subscribers can optimise their connections and derive maximum benefits from their investments."

The USR 9106 ADSL Wireless Gateway features an integrated 4-port Ethernet Router with built-in ADSL interface and a wireless gateway to multiple networks. Based on the industry standard 802.11g and working at a speed of 54 Mbps, the USR 9106 ADSL Wireless Gateway is compatible with any operating system with an Ethernet connection and an IP Stack. Hence, this device is ideal for small- to-medium businesses and home network users. The product is equipped with a customised Java based application called Easy Configurator which eases the configuration process for the user.

For the subscriber, the promotion will bring a 54 Mbps wireless access point, along with a blazing fast ADSL Modem. The users will also benefit from an integrated 4 port router that offers the security of a powerful firewall for data protection and supports Virtual Private Networks and remote management features.

The U.S. Robotics promotion with QualityNet was worked out in partnership with the vendor's channel partner E-tech Systems & Solutions. The QualityNet-U.S. Robotics bundle has become available to subscribers with effect from October 3rd, 2004.

"The U.S. Robotics products offer an excellent value-add to internet subscription bundles in the Middle East because of a combination of uncompromising quality and user-friendly customisation of sophisticated technologies," said Faisal Yaqoob, Marketing Director, E-tech Systems & Solutions. "The partnership agreement with Qualitynet focuses on delivering these benefits to the subscribers. E-tech Systems & Solutions is confident of the lasting success of this new partnership and proud to be a part of the equation."

-Ends-

About U.S. Robotics
For three decades, U.S. Robotics has been the world's leader in Internet access, delivering the highest quality and most innovative modems available. U.S. Robotics also provides a selection of wireless and wired networking products and security devices for homes and small offices. The company is partnering with key industry players and new technology providers to bring consumers connectivity solutions through its extensive worldwide distribution channel. U.S. Robotics is privately held and headquartered in the Chicago area. For further information regarding the company and its products, please visit the Web site at www.usr.com/me

U.S. Robotics is a registered trademark of U.S. Robotics Corporation. All rights reserved. All other company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

For Pre-sales enquiries: me-presales@usr.com

For Media enquiries:
Orient Planet
PR & Marketing Communications
PO Box 23345,
Dubai,
UAE
Tel: +971.4.3988901
Fax: +971.4.3988941
Email: info@orientplanet.com
Website: www.orientplanet.com

© Press Release 2004