A RETAIL BROADBAND NETWORK

uNET is a broadband network offering available to Unified retailers.  Unified's Retail Technology group has partnered with MegaPath, Inc. in order to offer this best-in-class, fully-managed network service.  This service allows retailers to connect to Unified, the Internet, and sites within their own organization using the best network access technology available on a site-by-site basis.

This means retailers can operate a mix of DSL, Cable, Frame-Relay, and Satellite access methods as a single network.  Unified and MegaPath take care of the installation, monitoring and support of this network so the retailer can devote human resources to other tasks.  The MegaPath network is a nationwide network with Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) at its core.  Sites, like retail stores or retail offices, are added to the core using the best network technology available to the individual location.  The MPLS core keeps the network more secure than standard broadband services and allows the easy integration of other services to the network in the future.

BETTER THAN STANDARD BROADBAND

The uNET service serves as a far more robust and business-ready network than does typical DSL or Cable installations.  uNET services have built in redundancies and all the critical areas like electronic payment, are secure and private using the MPLS core, are certified for all Unified provided applications, use the latest internet security services, and have automated dial back-up capabilities built right in.  You cannot find these kinds of business-hardened features in typical broadband services.

NEW FEATURE - A Unified Proprietary Dial-In Module*

Network outages are inevitable.  Unified recognizes the reality that there will be times when service is down due to hardware malfunction, broadband outage, etc.  In response to this, Unified introduces Detour.

Detour is a stand alone failover program that resides on the ReadyPay® computer.  In the event of a uNET outage (whether local or network-wide), Detour automatically establishes a dial-up modem connection to allow ReadyPay® a direct connection to the bank; independent of the network.  Once the network connection is restored, Detour automatically disconnects the modem, and payment is directed via uNET again.  We believe uNET with Detour brings the Unified Retailer one step closer to "always-on" payment.

*This feature may not yet be available for your location.  Please contact your Unified Retail Technology Representative.

KEY BENEFITS

• Speed - the highest speeds (bandwidths) possible to your headquarters or store location(s).  uNET allows you to select the highest speeds you can achieve by location.  Your network-based applications run faster and more reliably.
• Expandability - uNET is "future proofed", allowing us to add new services as they become available.
• Scalability - uNET has the built-in ability to upgrade to faster services as they become available at affordable upgrade fees.
• Redundancy - uNET will sense when the primary network is down and automatically dial out until the primary network is restored and stable.  uNET will then automatically revert back to the primary circuit.  uNET is also built with many automated failover points throughout the network.
• Security - MPLS makes for a private secure network.  In addition, uNET uses firewall services that guard your network from spam and viruses at the network level trapping and stopping these invaders before they hit machines at your store or office.
• Support - the uNET network is monitored and supported 7 x 24 x 365.  Unified's Help Desk has teamed up with the MegaPath Network Operating Center to provide unparalleled retail support.
• Installation - MegaPath provides us with professional installers that will install and test your new network before leaving your site.  MegaPath installers work with your personnel and the Unified Help Desk to walk through a checklist of tests before leaving your site.

uNET services can be purchased alone or bundled with other Unified Retail Technology products.  All uNET services include the hardware necessary to connect your site to the network.

To obtain detailed documentation including a Frequently Asked Questions document or to find out what type of service your site(s) qualifies for, please contact your Retail Technology representative below.

Tim Eddy – Southern California

Manager, Professional Services

(323) 264-5200 Ext. 7310

teddy@unifiedgrocers.com

Jack Hammond – Northern California

Manager, Professional Services

(925) 456-3575 Ext. 3144

jhammond@unifiedgrocers.com