New Mitel Networks Group Brings Large Enterprise Security and Reliability to Small Businesses

The introduction of SME Server V5 with ServiceLink represents a new class of offering in the small business server arena. It combines a secure, robust network server with enhanced functionality that can only be provided via an integrated network-connected service. Through ServiceLink, customers receive 24 x 7 server monitoring and reports, virus protection with automatic updates, point-and-click IPSEC Virtual Private Networks, DNS services and guaranteed email. Together, these services improve the security, reliability and performance of the customer's network to levels previously associated with large enterprises. The complete package is available to customers at an entry price of $595 (U.S.) for a three-month subscription.

According to research by AMI-Partners Inc., 44 percent of small companies in the United States lack Internet access and roughly half do not have a local area network. One of the reasons is that conventional server options do not answer small business needs. The current options generally fall into one of three categories: expensive, proprietary software that is complex and unreliable; general-purpose Linux servers that are time-consuming and difficult to manage; and server appliances that promise simplicity at the cost of scalability and flexibility.

"Small businesses require an affordable solution that will give them everything they need to create a reliable communications infrastructure, but one that also requires minimal oversight," said Jasmine Noel, director of systems and application management, Hurwitz Group. "Mitel Networks' approach - especially the ServiceLink aspect - allows the systems integrator to offer a low-cost solution that provides additional value by delivering ongoing remote system administration and other valuable Managed Services in a non-obtrusive and highly efficient manner."

"Other companies are merely talking about redefining software for the Internet Age," said Don Smith, Chief Executive Officer, Mitel Networks. "We're actually doing it, we're doing it now, and we're doing it in a way that solves real-world problems for small-business customers."

For more information about product features, please refer to the backgrounder that accompanies this release.

Pricing and Availability

SME Server V5 with ServiceLink is available for order now from authorized

systems integrators and resellers, and will ship in mid-September. The suggested list price is $175 per month with a 12-month subscription, or $595 for three months. For more information, please visit or call

1-613-564-8000. The ServiceLink Base Pack includes 24 x 7 Alerts and Reporting, Virus Protection, Guaranteed Email and DNS Services. As a special introductory offer, Mitel Networks will bundle its IPSEC VPN Pack with the Base Pack through the remainder of 2001.

About Mitel Networks

Mitel Networks is a leading provider of next-generation IP telephony solutions and a market leader for voice, video and data convergence. The company creates advanced communication solutions and applications in the area of speech recognition, wireless mobility, unified messaging, and contact center solutions. Mitel Networks is committed to delivering integrated business solutions including hospitality, education, health care, government, retail and financial markets. The company supports its customers through offices and partners globally. In July, 2001, Mitel Networks acquired e-smith, inc., now called the Network Server Solutions Group.