Hyperlink's security configuration requires no authentication/encryption as end user traffic is separated into dedicated logical Ethernet networks.

Hyperlink's core network uses hardware based switching (as opposed to routing) providing lower and more consistent latency. In addition, the HPN delivers data transparency that enables many different layer 3 protocols to be used (including IP, IPX, AppleTalk, NetBEUI).

The HPN incorporates a full range of business-grade broadband and high speed connectivity services, including SHDSL, ADSL, ethernet, fibre and dialup/ISDN.

These services are only provided at a commercial grade standard and are therefore ideal for business use. To this end, Hyperlink provides Service Level Assurances on all broadband connectivity services that it supplies.

The HPN enables all connected sites to communicate peer to peer without passing through a head site. Servers at any site can be accessed from any other site avoiding the need for all equipment to be placed at a primary location. This provides bandwidth efficiency and eliminates inter-office data transfer costs.

The HPN demands less complex and less expensive hardware is required at each site:

• No firewall required, due to the HPN's inbuilt security. Reduces capital and operational costs,
• No IP Virtual Private Network (VPN) devices are required to establish tunnels to secure data passing across the network, and
• Administration of user names, domains and passwords is not required.

Hyperlink monitors the state of health of the entire HPN, including the Customer Premise Equipment (CPE). In the event of a network failure, the Hyperlink technical team is notified immediately and implements a restoration protocol to resolve the problem.

To back up this service, Hyperlink provides a detailed Service Level Assurance (99.5% uptime availability).

The Hyperlink Managed Firewall provides security against any intrusion into the HPN from the Internet by blocking unused traffic ports and specific IP address ranges. Hyperlink actively monitors firewalls for intrusion detection on a 24x7 basis.