Infonet expands security features, adds MPLS to its IP VPN
 
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International carrier Infonet has tuned up its IP VPN service so that now it may offer a glimpse of the future.
In addition to supporting IP Security tunnels over its network, Infonet's IP VPN will support a public-key infrastructure for exchanging digital certificates and managing keys. It will also support Multi-protocol Label Switching across its network, which enables different levels of service quality.
So instead of being at the mercy of the Internet and its unpredictability, customers who want reliable response time from the VPN backbone can get it as long as the VPN sites are connected to Infonet's network.
In addition, by using MPLS, it is possible to give different types of traffic different priorities. E-mail could get a slower class of service than an accounting application, for example.
The upgraded Infonet IP VPN services will be available next year. Pricing is not set, but there will be a fixed price per site. A T-1 connection in North America will be less than $1,500 per month, Infonet says.
The service is based on Cisco gear and employs Cisco's MPLS implementation, known as tag switching.
Initially, the service will be available site-to-site via Cisco routers. Later, dial-up customers will be able to use the VPN service with client software from IRE.
Infonet acts as the registration authority for VPN customers and VeriSign is the certificate authority.
Infonet's network extends to more than 70 countries.
Tim Greene is a senior editor at Network World, covering virtual private networking gear, remote access, core switching and local phone companies. You can reach him at tgreene@nww.com.
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