• SAFENet has added Genexis, IPmotion, MB connect line, Teldat and Waystream, taking the European network-technology alliance from four members to nine
  • The larger group gives buyers more European suppliers to consider, but SAFENet membership is not a security certification or purchasing requirement

The fact

SAFENet has added five companies to its European network-technology alliance, expanding the group from four members to nine. Genexis, IPmotion, MB connect line, Teldat and Waystream joined on 10 September. Their products include fibre-access equipment, home gateways, industrial routers, remote-access systems, enterprise networking equipment, and switches for fibre operators.

SAFENet was founded in June by FRITZ!, devolo, LANCOM and TDT. The group wants European network technology to receive more attention in public policy and procurement, and has called for greater transparency and a European security toolbox for routers and other network equipment. The expansion gives SAFENet a broader supplier base. It does not create a new purchasing rule, common product standard or independent security certification for the equipment sold by its members.

The assessment

For buyers looking for European network equipment, SAFENet now offers a broader list of companies to consider. The new members cover more parts of the network, from home fibre equipment to industrial gateways and operator switches. But joining the alliance does not tell a buyer whether a particular product is secure, reliable, or suitable for an existing network. Those questions still need to be checked during procurement, including software updates, support, compatibility and how remote access is managed.

For BTW readers, SAFENet is becoming a bigger supplier group, but it should be treated as a starting point rather than a seal of approval. Its influence will become clearer if its members begin appearing more often in real tenders and if the alliance turns its proposed security toolbox into specific requirements buyers can use.

What to watch

Watch for SAFENet to publish details of its proposed security toolbox and for public bodies or network operators to refer to the alliance in procurement. Tender participation and product-specific security requirements will show whether the larger membership gives buyers more practical choices.