UUNET Offers Integrated Internet Solutions With 3Com, Ascend And Whistle

DISTRIBUTION STRATEGY LAUNCHES WITH MERISEL FAIRFAX, Va., February 17, 1998 - UUNET Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of WorldCom, Inc. and a multinational leader in Internet communications solutions, announced today a reseller program under which it will offer integrated solution packages combining leading-edge hardware from 3Com, Ascend and Whistle Communications with UUNET's Internet access services. U.S. Value Added Reseller (VAR) customers benefit from convenient one-stop shopping for hardware and access, a simplified installation process and complete support services. Also announced was a channel strategy for two-tier distributors to resell the integrated solutions. Merisel, Inc., is the first distributor to participate in the program.

"We look forward to working with hardware manufacturers and distributors to extend UUNET's channel program to an even wider audience," said Rick Mealy, manager of channel services. "UUNET has simplified the sales process by integrating leading-edge hardware products with UUNET's Internet services. Resellers benefit from better economics, while their customers save by purchasing these channel-exclusive integrated solutions."

Integrated Solutions Package Gets End Users Connected Fast UUNET's integrated solutions program currently includes 3Com's OfficeConnect 521, Ascend's Pipeline 50 and Pipeline 50 w/ Firewall, and Whistle's InterJet 140. Merisel Open Computing Alliance's (MOCA) Sun-authorized resellers and Merisel's main distribution business will offer the integrated Ascend solution.

Each product will be certified by UUNET and will include convenient instructions for easy installation. UUNET coordinates and manages the installation process, including line provisioning for the customer. In addition, if the end user should ever have questions UUNET, the manufacturer and the reseller provide full support.

Resellers Benefit from Better Economics
Resellers earn commissions by selling any of the integrated solution packages. Commissions range from $300-$700 per sale and are paid directly to the reseller by UUNET. In addition, resellers can take advantage of UUNET's Client Referral and Certified Solutions Provider programs.

"VARs have been requesting a broader and simpler ISP offering," said Art Merkin, Merisel vice president, Technical Products Division, Product and Inventory Management. " These solutions will be a terrific way to meet their needs and provide them with a decisively competitive advantage in this dynamic market."

Pricing and Availability
UUNET's integrated solutions program is currently available to resellers in the United States. These programs and the corresponding discounts are not available directly from UUNET.