Australian network aggregator, Platform Networks, has launched a wireless broadband access service over the Optus 3G network that is designed to provide secure remote access to enterprise data networks.

Platform Networks managing director, David Hooton, told iTWire that the service would be offered to end users enterprises via Platform Networks resellers. The 3G 'tail' will be available as a layer 3 service with bundled data; or as a layer 2 product which can be integrated into MPLS private networks.

This, he said would allowing mobile subscribers to use the Optus 3G network as an extension of their corporate local area network, bypassing the public Internet. "It will be just like accessing your corporate network from within the office," he said.

Another used would be to provide secure backup links for remote offices where this may not previously have been an affordable option. The product has been designed for systems integrators who work with embedded devices such as mobile EFTPOS machines and courier's barcode scanners.

Hooton said he believed the Platform service was the first of its kind to be available to small enterprises. "Optus offers this kind of service, but only for very large corporate customers."

Platform Networks has been in operation for about five years. It says it is expanding its channel partner relationships in Sydney and moving into Victoria and Queensland during 2009 and is planning a Perth launch in Q2 of 2009.

Stuart Corner - ITWire 16/01/09 - http://www.itwire.com/content/view/22706/127/