New services give mobile devices access to corporate networks
Two domestic companies yesterday launched a wireless services that allows traveling business users to gain access to their private and corporate networks via mobile phones and other hand-held devices.
Dacom, a fixed-line phone and Internet service provider, announced it is beginning a trial of "Mobile OnNet21," a wireless groupware service which will enable users to access e-mail, bulletin boards, and other data sources on company networks using cell phones, in both CDMA (code division multiple access) and PCS (personal communications service) modes.
The company has worked together with Nepple, a domestic wireless solution provider, to develop the service which is expected to start full operation sometime next month.
Bitec System, a domestic venture firm, also announced a new mobile office suite targeting corporate users who need to plug into the Internet and corporate Intranet anytime, anywhere.
The new package is an upgrade of its two wireless Intranet solutions that have been offered on SK Telecom and Shinsegi Telecom mobile networks.
Wireless Internet access is now commonplace with new mobile phones powered by a variety of functions like e-mail, games, weather and stock information offered by telecom carriers.
But the two companies target the higher-paying corporate segment in the market.
"Using the service, roving workers will be able to gain remote access to e-mail, personal files and business applications stored on an internal company network," a spokesman of Dacom said.
For example, salespersons would be able to keep track of customers' orders while they are vacationing, and chief executives will be able to sign important documents by typing in personal codes on cellular phones, he said.
Even mobile phones without built-in Internet connections could access corporate networks with Dacom's service that uses two communication protocols called wireless application protocols (WAP) and interactive short message service (I-SMS).
Dacom will provide the service for a monthly fee.
Bitec's service is available not only on mobile phones, but also other gadgets including personal digital assistants and hand-held computers.
The services are the latest in a trend towards offices without walls.
But before they are widely used, the companies will have to assure customers that the services are free from security risks.
Wireless networks may become vulnerable to hackers and corporate information thieves during the exchange of data. If a user loses a device that has access to a corporate network, it could also pose a serious threat to corporate information security
The companies said allowing access to those with the right ID will protect the services and they are working to develop systems to keep network safe.
By Hwang Jang-jin Staff reporter
2000.11.07 |
