Deep Blue, Pronto partner for wireless hot spots

EMERYVILLE, California -- Pronto Networks, a developer of secure wireless infrastructure solutions, and Deep Blue Wireless, a wireless Internet service provider, have formed a partnership to help build out the Deep Blue Wireless Wi-Fi network. Pronto Networks will provide key wireless infrastructure solutions through its core technology, Hotspot Networking System, for Deep Blue's hot spot locations, which include top tier hotels and popular local cafes.

"Pronto's security solution was a major factor influencing our decision to integrate their product," said Alan Gale, CEO of Deep Blue Wireless. "Pronto's Hotspot Networking System is the only public Wi-Fi hot spot solution offering VPN security for all Internet destinations, email and access to corporate networks."

Pronto offers many additional features not available from other technology providers that are viewed as especially important for the public hot spot market. Pronto's solution has a true plug-and-play design that allows for turnkey installation, remote setup and administration, unique bandwidth management capabilities, and built-in upgrades for both 802.11a and 802.11g technologies should they become prevalent. Built-in pricing versatility allows larger venues such as hotels and convention centers to charge premium prices for high bandwidth connections such as a T1, and a reduced price for visitors or conference attendees at DSL speeds. 

Compromised laptops

"Other public Wi-Fi hot spot companies provide no security for general Internet traffic," Gale said. "Security is especially important to many of our customers, particularly business travelers who work with sensitive data and cannot afford to have their information or laptops compromised. Hotels and convention centers are especially aware of the inherent security vulnerabilities associated with the public Wi-Fi hot spot market, and the need to ensure their guests that they are addressing this issue." 

As part of the long-term agreement, Deep Blue Wireless will deploy hundreds of Pronto's Hotspot Controller units as Deep Blue's footprint expands throughout the US. Under a current Deep Blue Wireless promotional offering, location owners can get set up with a complete Wi-Fi system for a café, hotel, or larger venue for as little as $250, and with ongoing revenue sharing to the property. Deep Blue Wireless also provides unique marketing and service opportunities for venues through partnerships with national ISP's, equipment manufacturers and other technology partners. 

"Our partnership with Deep Blue Wireless is synergistic in that it allows both companies to focus on our core strengths," said Jasbir Singh, CEO of Pronto Networks. "Deep Blue Wireless has had considerable success in marketing its services and developing flagship hot spot accounts. Pronto Networks' core capability is developing leading-edge technology specifically for the hot spot market and running large scale back-office operations. Together, we are able to offer location owners and end-users simplified, secure and affordable high-speed Internet access." 

Based in Emeryville, Califronia, Pronto Networks develops and markets wireless turnkey solutions for hot spot network operators. The company has offices in London, UK and Bangalore, India.

Based in Menlo Park, California, Deep Blue Wireless is a wireless Internet service provider with locations throughout California. Deep Blue Wireless locations include The Embassy Suites, Pan Pacific and Sutton Place Hotels and various other boutique hotels and coffee houses among its growing list of customers.