Structured Communication Systems to Distribute AEP System' Security Hardware

November 5, 2003: AEP Systems (AEP Systems), the high-speed security solutions company, announces a partnership with Structured Communication Systems, a leading provider of network security, access, connectivity, storage and systems, to distribute AEP Systems’ hardware security products to businesses in the Northwestern US.

Structured Communication Systems will distribute AEP Systems’ hardware security products including AEP SureWare A-Gate, a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Virtual Private Network for remote access to internal systems. This technology enables business partners secure and authenticated access to web-based applications, such as email, from anywhere using any standard Web browser. Structured Communication Systems will also distribute AEP SureWare Keyper, AEP SureWare NET and AEP SureWare Runner.

Structured Communication Systems is a leader in developing complex technology solutions for companies throughout the Northwest. The company’s leadership in security and networking technologies, access, connectivity and storage systems allows clients to integrate solutions within their existing technological infrastructure.

''The market for IT security products is expanding rapidly, and partnering with Structured Communication Systems allows AEP Systems to increase the profile of our security hardware products in the Northwestern US,'' said Ron Prichard, Director of Western US Sales, AEP Systems. ''Structured has a solid reputation for creating long-term partnerships with clients based on trust, and for providing each client with unparalleled professional and technological resources and services.''

''Security is key for any IT business and new, progressively more sophisticated security threats surface everyday. AEP Systems’ security solutions, like SureWare A-Gate, offer security solutions for a variety of situations,'' said Ron Fowler, CEO at Structured Communication Systems. ''We are extremely pleased to offer our customers access to these valuable products, and in working with AEP Systems, Structured can offer our partners the best-of-class products and services that they have come to expect.''

Market analysts Gartner Group agrees that security, specifically network security, is a growing concern. Gartner reported, ''in 2003 one in two small companies will be hacked,'' which will lead to an increased emphasis on network security. High-tech market research firm, In-Stat/MDR., reports that the overall network security market will reach $5.8 billion in 2006, up from $2.3 billion in 2001.