National network integration and infrastructure management services provider Integr8 IT has become the first locally-based South African company to offer a shared APN (access point node) service to clients.

The conventional route as far as connectivity to the corporate network is concerned, especially from a mobile and wireless application point of view, is to make use of a public APN service. This allows access to the Internet and then to the business network.

There are, however, limitations and certain levels of parameter security involved.

"Integr8 IT has configured a private APN to allow for 3G, Edge, GPRS and GPRS+ access into the virtual private network. This will allow users a totally secure and regulated link into a company's network," explains Robert Sussman, joint-MD of Integr8 IT and CIO of the Year for Africa in 2005.

The company has incorporated this offering into its managed services portfolio and, according to Sussman, many of its corporate clients have already noted significant value from the increased levels of security while exposing them to the very latest in telecommunication and cellular connectivity infrastructure.

"An APN is required for a user to make a packet-based wireless communication service or GPRS connection for any data request. Normally this is done via the public APN or the Internet, but for a more secure and private connection, many companies have made contact with Integr8 IT to acquire the service, as cost-effectively as possible," he adds.

Integr8 IT is leveraging off the strength of its long-term partnership with global communications partner and cellular network MTN in order to ensure reliable support and full secure connectivity.

For more information, click through to www.integr8it.com, e-mail info@integr8it.com or call 0861 888 888.