6 April 2006: Mako Networks $5m expansion into South Africa.
Auckland based Mako Networks, a leading provider of network management and security solutions, is expanding into South
Africa with an initial sales commitment of $5m a year.
The company’s UK office has just signed a distribution agreement with South African distributor 5th Mountain Networks
which will see Mako products and services available throughout South Africa.
In a first for Mako Networks, the system will go wireless, using Vodacom’s 3G service to overcome the problems of wired
networks in South Africa. Mako CEO Bill Farmer says the wireless capability has sparked interest in its new delivery
platform from a number of European countries, with Germany likely to be the next customer.
Mako Networks established its footprint in South Africa as part of a global strategy to reach new customers through
localised presence and market expertise. ”We selected 5th Mountain Networks to represent Mako Networks based on their
experience, expertise, strength of reputation and their depth of service across South Africa,” says Bill Farmer, Mako
Networks CEO.
The patented Mako system is designed to protect broadband users from the risks and costs often associated with
“always-on” broadband connections. Mako manages the users’ networks centrally, delivering cost-effective proactive
network security and user policy monitoring and enforcement together with sophisticated reporting and management of any
end point.
The Mako Networks system uses a centrally managed hardware and software system to deliver a 24/7, continually updated
network management solution helping businesses monitor and secure their data across multiple broadband network types and
connections.
The globally deployed, centrally managed Mako service interacts with a Mako device installed on the end-user's broadband
connection, continually monitoring network activity and updating firewall and security definitions in order to meet
evolving threats whilst giving them complete visibility of all traffic moving to and from their network.
Late last year Mako finalised a deal with Gen-i and Telecom New Zealand where the Mako solution is used in Telecom’s
SecureME offering, a broadband monitoring product for SMEs to help counter cyber slacking and hacking.
Chris Quin General Manager of Gen-i said the new offering is providing assurance for small to medium business owners
from the risks associated with connecting and allowing staff access to the Internet. He said the main difference between
SecureME and traditional solutions is the proactive manner in which the network is protected and end users kept aware of
questionable data transmission.
ENDS
About Mako Networks
Mako Networks was formed in New Zealand in 2000. The patented Mako System was first made commercially available in July
2002. Mako has offices in Auckland and London and currently operates in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom,
Ireland, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Canada and South Africa.
About 5th Mountain Networks.
5th Mountain Networks was formed in South Africa in 2005, deploying the first proof-of-concept Mako Systems during
February 2006. The first commercial units were made available in March 2006. 5th Mountain Networks are in the process of
appointing partners and resellers that will include Telcos, Mobile Network Operators, IT integrators, resellers, and
internet service providers. 5th Mountain Networks chose the Vodacom Network as their preferred cellular communications
network based on Vodacom’s globally recognised technology innovation and delivery.