EmergeCore Introduces All-in-One Network Device

In a move to bring a low-cost integrated IT solution to small business, EmergeCore Networks debuted its new IT-100 device, dubbed “IT in a Box,” at N+I in Las Vegas this week. The IT-100 combines 20 gigabytes of storage with a router, four-port switch, firewall, wireless access point, FTP server, multiple domain support, e-mail server, and virtual private network services in a single $1,395 device.

In addition to its unparalleled low price point, the IT-100 eliminates the need for costly IT support. According to Dave Brown, EmergeCore Networks president and chief executive officer, the savings are great when you look at a return on investment analysis of the single device compared to building a traditional small business network.

“Purchased separately, the purchase price alone for the functions we’ve incorporated in the IT-100 would exceed $5,000,” Brown said. “Other network appliances cost two or three times the price of the IT-100.”

The CoreVista software’s graphical user interface (GUI) is Windows-like and familiar to users. Brown said it is so simple to use that even a non-technical staff member could set up a small business network in minutes. Just like Stephen Nipper, an attorney and partner in Dykas, Shaver & Nipper did.

“We have a four-attorney law practice,” Nipper said. “For our seven employees, we can’t justify a dedicated IT person. So prior to purchasing the IT-100, our IT functions fell entirely to me. Needless to say, at $175 per billable hour, it only takes a few hours of my time saved to justify this $1,395 price.”

Nipper reports that in addition to eliminating the firm’s need for its former hodgepodge of networking equipment, the instructions for the IT-100 were simple enough that anyone could manage it. Within a few minutes, from his home, Nipper was able to set up VPN services that now allow any of the attorneys to securely access client records and conduct work from the road or from their homes.

“We’ll be able to recognize a substantial increase in our billings as well as a big reduction in our stress factors as a result of this purchase,” Nipper said.

The IT-100 uses a Transmeta Crusoe TM5600 533MHz processor and comes with 128MB synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM). Storage consists of a 20GB hard drive and 32MB of PCMCIA flash drive space.The resulting IT-100-based network can support PCs, Macintosh workstations, Unix machines — basically any device with an Ethernet or wireless access point, including laptops, Tablet PCs and PDAs.

With the built in 802.11b-based wireless local area network (WLAN) access point, a small business can save money on the expensive task of wiring an office. With the built in VPN Server, a small business has the ability to remotely and securely connect to the office network, and multiple remote offices can securely connect to the head office.

A small business can even create and host its own Web site without ever having to upload an FTP file. An office staff member can easily handle all of the setup functions of the IT-100, or if they choose, they can administer the unit through a local Internet service provider, competitive local exchange carrier, or a consultant or reseller.

Founded in September 2000, EmergeCore Networks is focused on the further development of “IT in a Box” networking solutions for small business and branch office customers. EmergeCore Networks developed the IT-100 specifically to address the infrastructure technology needs of small businesses. The IT-100 all-in-one networking solution provides the support, services, and functionality most often required by small businesses.

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Small Business Computing Staff
Small Business Computing Staff
Small Business Computing addresses the technology needs of small businesses, which are defined as businesses with fewer than 500 employees and/or less than $7 million in annual sales.

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