A Redwood Shores, Calif.-based provider of enterprise mobility services has reportedly unveiled the industry's first enterprise-class mobile Wi-Fi hotspot service in the United States.

 

IPass Inc. has turned the Novatel Wireless' (News - Alert) consumer-oriented MiFi into a 'plug and play' service for the enterprise user. Novatel Wireless' consumer-oriented MiFi is a mobile broadband device that creates a personal cloud of high-speed Internet connectivity that can be seamlessly shared among multiple users and Wi-Fi devices or used by a single user as a USB-connected 3G modem.

 

Factory-configured with customer-specific SSID and security keys and configured into the customer's iPassConnect mobility manager software, the iPass (News - Alert) MiFi devices ensure a secure connection and eliminate the need of user or IT set-up. The advanced reporting offered by iPass Management Portal provides the IT manager greater visibility and control over usage, policies and asset protection. Enterprise users enjoy one-click connectivity, gaining access to the Internet and corporate resources.

 

“IPass is committed to providing an expanding portfolio of enterprise mobility services for distributed enterprises who depend heavily on an increasingly mobile workforce,” said Steven Wastie, senior vice president, marketing, iPass Inc (News - Alert)., in a statement. “The introduction of a customer configured, enterprise-class mobile MiFi device is part of our ongoing commitment to support users -- irrespective of the device type and network they use -- and also support IT needs for visibility, security, and lower support costs.”

 

Since 1996, IPass has been helping enterprises and individuals unify the management of remote and mobile connectivity for more than a . The company has allowed hundreds of Global 2000 companies to create easy-to-use wireless and broadband solutions for their mobile workers, home offices, and branch and retail locations, complete with web-based management, security validation, and unified billing.

 

With offices throughout North America, Europe and Asia, iPass boasts a clientele including Ford, Nokia (News - Alert), and Proctor and Gamble. Hundreds of wireless, broadband and dial-up providers in over 165 countries are connected by the iPass global virtual network. TMCnet recently reported that iPass, Inc. has launched an enterprise-configurable Wi-Fi hotspot solution for the Apple iPhone (News - Alert) and iPod touch.