Whenever one thinks of networking or remote access, the name 3Com (3com.com) invariably appears. Founded in 1979, 3Com specializes almost exclusively in hardware and deployment. As of 2002, the company will be divided into three sections: the Business Networks Company (BNC), which will provide network infrastructure solutions, the Business Connectivity Company (BCC), which will provide hardware for accessing networks, and CommWorks Corporation, which will provide IP-based platforms for the telecommunications industry.

As part of its IP-based solutions set, 3Com delivers a range of voice over IP solutions to its customers through its network devices designed to communicate across local area or wide area networks. The company offers VoIP solutions through its network jacks, telephone systems and wireless products. 3Com can also set up a customer VoIP solution through its Network Installation Service, which includes setup, configuration, testing and training.

3Com's VPN hardware is built into the company's line of firewall products. When a customer purchases firewall services from 3Com, the company also makes VPN hardware available through activation keys that can be used within the firewall's control panel or using Windows-based installation wizards.

For protection at network perimeters, 3Com's enterprise-level SuperStack 3 Firewall or the company's OfficeConnect Internet Firewall for SMEs can protect thoroughly protect networks . The company can also employ the use of content filters to help control Web site access through a software subscription service. The protection of LAN resources can also be distributed to the level of servers and desktops through 3Com's Embedded Firewall products.

Additionally, VPNs come with a built-in hardware encryption, L2TP and other tunneling and security protocols for when a public Internet connection is being used by a remote user, and IPSec L3 security protocol.

3Com can be contacted via telephone at (800) 638-3266 or by email at .