Multiple Service Providers Now Offer Wide Choice of Services and Support Options for Vertical Networks' Converged Voice and Data Systems

SUNNYVALE, CA (February 19, 2002) - Vertical Networks, the leading maker of Integrated Communications Platforms (ICPs), today announced a new Authorized Services Partner Program for its family of InstantOffice™ platforms. The program allows Vertical Networks' customers to choose from more service providers and to benefit from a more complete set of competitively priced services that more closely match their requirements. Initial participants in the program include NextiraOne, LLC; Datatec Systems, Inc.; Telsource Corporation; CrossCom National, Inc.; and NetEffect Corporation.
"As our new service partners have incorporated Vertical Networks into their portfolios and their business models, the services available to our customers have become more streamlined," said Ben Alves, vice president of services and consulting at Vertical Networks. "We expect our support services program will ultimately enable our partners to offer outsourced network operations centers, create new value-added services, tailor InstantOffice applications for specific markets, and more. We also anticipate the development of generic services such as high-end system and application monitoring."

"There's a perfect fit between the services NextiraOne offers and Vertical Networks' InstantOffice platform because we both focus on the convergence of voice and data," said Douglas Ritter, vice president of marketing for NextiraOne. "It can be difficult for customers to fully leverage and manage separate voice and data systems. Convergence products like InstantOffice simplify customers' lives by enabling them to take advantage of the expertise available from a single equipment vendor. Vertical Networks' new support services program further simplifies customers' lives when they come to NextiraOne for both their voice and data service needs."

Partners Offer Variety of Capabilities
Vertical Networks' new support services partners offer customers a range of capabilities. Some partners support specific applications such as call centers while others provide a full range of services, including design, implementation, support, and applications. Customers also have a choice of regional and national service providers, as well as of providers that serve specific vertical markets.

About the InstantOffice System
Vertical Networks' InstantOffice system is a fully integrated voice and data solution that is designed for up to 180 voice users in multisite enterprise branch offices and small to medium-sized businesses that lack the IT resources to support complex, piece-part systems. The InstantOffice system incorporates the functions of a packet- and circuit-switched PBX, voice mail system, automated attendant, multiprotocol router, Ethernet LAN, and voice over IP gateway; it also includes support for custom business applications. Customers can choose from a variety of WAN access types. Unlike products that require separate trunks for voice and data, the InstantOffice system provides integrated broadband support for voice and data on a single trunk, thus reducing WAN access charges.

About Vertical Networks, Inc.
Vertical Networks is the leading provider of Integrated Communications Platforms (ICPs), the first systems that combine voice, data, and applications support into one remotely manageable platform. With a unique focus on the needs of enterprise branch offices and small to medium-sized businesses worldwide, Vertical Networks delivers business solutions to a wide range of industries, including financial services, medical, publishing, and retail. To ensure total customer satisfaction, Vertical Networks' strategic network service provider, reseller, and systems integration partners offer comprehensive support services, including 7x24 on-site support.

For more information about Vertical Networks or its products, visit the company's Web site at www.vertical.com or call 408-523-9700.

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Contact:
Carole Gum
Vertical Networks, Inc.
408-585-3285
caroleg@vertical.com