Tim Greene

A debate at the Next Generation Networks conference in Boston earlier this month pitted IPSec VPNs against MPLS VPNs. Neither technology won the debate, but the discussion did reveal strengths and weaknesses of each.

Check Point is adding management features to its VPN-1/Firewall-1 software it says will make it easier for customers to add and configure their IP Security VPN sites.

Updated management software from NetScreen Technologies promises to automate tedious configuration tasks while reducing the possibility of human error in setting up VPN policies.

The adage that time stands still for no man could hold true for virtual private networks, where a host of proposed standards will help make the technology more efficient and secure in the future.

IP Dynamics

Funk Software Inc. is making it easier for service providers to keep Mobile IP wireless sessions up and running as users move from cell site to cell site within new wireless networks.

Unisphere Networks Inc. this week is unveiling support for ATM on its media gateway, enabling service provider customers to support voice over ATM.

As service providers slow their spending on gear to make the transition to versatile packet-based networks, one piece of network equipment that spans legacy and next-generation networks, a.k.a. the media server, may buck that trend