Local bank HSBC thinks global with Sirocom VPNs

HSBC has turned to virtual network operator Sirocom for global roaming across various forms of communication.

The deal will see a minimum of 20,000 of the bank’s staff use the Sirocom VPN and other technology by the end of this year. Financial details of the agreement haven’t been disclosed but, based on past deals, it could initially be worth at least $10m.

The roll out has started with HSBC’s Corporate, Investment Banking and Markets division using the iPassConnect client for access to ISPs in over 150 countries at the cost of a local call.

Sirocom said the deal is important for two major reasons. First, it marks the launch of FlexiVision, the UK provider’s suite of network administration tools.

Analyst house Yankee has praised the offering for giving user organisations flexibility and control of network access.

Also, there is the global nature of the deal. David McFarlane, Sirocom CTO, said: “This is a global project with regional packaging. HSBC realised remote access to the network is something they have to offer on a global basis.”

The deal covers access via home fixed and wireless broadband, public Wi-Fi hotspots and mobile devices, where use of a VPN can cut call costs.