Cisco solution improves network security, protecting the Credit Union's 36,000 members

BRISBANE, Australia - June 18, 2002 - Cisco Systems, the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, has been selected to provide The Queensland Police Credit Union with a real-time Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to protect its network from electronic attacks.

The Queensland Police Credit Union (QPCU) provides financial services to more than 36,000 people, and requires a secure and manageable platform to optimize the protection of its members' proprietary information.

"The QPCU's top priority is the security of its members' accounts and transactions," said Mr Dan Cummins, IT executive officer for the QPCU. "Similarly, we don't want to take any risks in regard to our member's privacy. Cisco's comprehensive security system takes care of that and much more."

The QPCU selected Cisco's real-time Secure IDS-4210 Sensor product to enable its network administrators to detect unauthorised activity by analysing traffic in real-time. Cisco worked closely on the project with leading systems integrator, Volante Solutions.

A key benefit of the Cisco system is its ability to be virtually self-administering. The solution is able to alert the network administrator to any penetration to the network and provide proactive advice on how to resolve it. It is also capable of locking the network and terminating the Internet connection if the system is breached.

Mr Cummins said there were also clear cost advantages of moving to the Cisco model because unlike the packet sniffing devices previously deployed, the Cisco IDS acted in real time, providing automatic detection of security attacks. Cisco also tracks and publishes new vulnerabilities and passes this information to its customers to ensure their systems are as up-to-date and secure as possible.

"The Cisco security solution replaced expensive and high maintenance security options the Credit Union Previously employed. Cisco is a leader in the security market as we provide complete solutions for our customers," said Mr Kip Cole, Director of Channels at Cisco Australia & New Zealand.

"After understanding QPCU's requirements our team knew that only Cisco's Security Architecture would provide the security, scalability and the manageability required in the Enterprise market, in a cost effective Solution," said Mr Tony Musgrave, State Manager of Volante Solutions.

About Cisco Secure IDS-4210 Sensor

The Cisco Secure IDS-4210 Sensor is a network security 'appliance' that detects unauthorised activity traversing the network by analysing traffic in real time, enabling users to quickly respond to security breaches. It is optimised to monitor 45Mbps environments and is suited for monitoring T1/E1, T3 and Ethernet environments.

About Queensland Police Credit Union

The Queensland Police Credit Union was established in 1964 and offers savings and investment accounts, home and personal loans, insurance options, motor vehicle service and financial advice to 36,000 members. See www.qpcu.org.au for more information.

About Cisco Systems

Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. Cisco news and information are available at www.cisco.com.

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