Press Release

Netscape and VeriSign Sign Major Agreement to Launch Internet Security Center on Netscape Netcenter

VeriSign Also Designated as Premier Digital Certificate Services Provider for Users of Netscape Products and Netscape Netcenter

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIF. (February 23, 1999), - VeriSign, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRSN), the world's leading provider of Internet trust services, and Netscape Communications Corporation (Nasdaq: NCSP), which operates one of the world's largest web portals, today announced the signing of a comprehensive multi-year agreement to promote secure electronic commerce and communications solutions on corporate networks and the World Wide Web. The agreement covers a wide range of joint initiatives including the launch of a new co-branded Netcenter Security Center, the further integration of VeriSign digital certificate services with Netscape client and server products, and the naming of VeriSign as the premier provider of digital certificate and Internet trust services for Netscape customers.

The agreement is the first of its kind to create a one-stop destination on a major portal for secure e-commerce and communications solutions on the Web, through a unique integration of Netscape products, the Netcenter portal and VeriSign's global digital certificate services infrastructure.

"VeriSign is the clear leader in Internet trust services, and we're pleased to take our long-standing partnership to the next level with unparalleled cooperation on specialized content development, product integration and digital certificate service delivery for Internet businesses and consumers worldwide," said Mike Homer, executive vice president and general manager of Netscape's Netcenter division. "Together, we plan to deliver the best-of-breed information and services that our customers need to securely conduct their personal or business transactions over the Internet."

According to recent studies by Jupiter Research and others, security remains the number one concern for conducting transactions over the Internet. With the agreement announced today, Netscape and VeriSign intend to work together to reduce this barrier, fueling the growth of global e-commerce by offering the next generation of Internet security services through one of the most highly trafficked and business-oriented sites on the Internet. The companies expect the new initiatives to lead to faster development and deployment of secure e-commerce applications in retailing, financial services, virtual private networking, customer service and supply-chain management.

Highlights of the new agreement include:

  • The Security Center by VeriSign. The new Netcenter Security Center by Netscape and VeriSign will serve as a one-stop information and service site for all Internet security needs. This new channel, targeted to enterprises, web sites, and individuals, will provide comprehensive product and service information on digital certificates and other Internet security technologies; kits for developers to enable secure e-commerce applications; and training and implementation services. Sub-channels of the Security Center will make additional information readily accessible on topics such as Building Secure Web Sites, Public Key Infrastructure, Online Shopping, Developer Tools, and Secure Messaging.

  • Enhanced Client and Server Product Integration. Expanding on their existing technology partnership, Netscape and VeriSign enterprise solutions will continue to be highly integrated and compatible. Key areas for joint technology development include enhancement of the protocols and process for acquiring VeriSign website digital certificates for use with Netscape server products and the inclusion of VeriSign-specific technology in Netscape client and server products to simplify enterprise-wide digital certificate deployment and use. The companies also plan to collaborate on the next generation of secure e-commerce and communication products and services, including customized portal services, secure messaging features, and AOL-compatible e-commerce features.

  • Premier Provider Relationship. As part of today's agreement, VeriSign has also been named the Premier Provider of digital certificate services for all Netscape products and services. VeriSign will have pre-eminent positioning throughout Netscape's Netcenter, reaching a wide range of target customers including enterprises, IT professionals, online merchants, developers, power computer users, and small businesses. VeriSign will also be listed as the premier provider of digital certificate services in all Netscape product configuration and registration processes.

    "Netscape Netcenter has become a premier destination for business-oriented individuals looking to exploit the power of the Internet for commercial purposes," said Stratton Sclavos, president and CEO of VeriSign. "Our new agreement with Netscape will make it simple for any enterprise, web site, or individual to reap the benefits of secure e-commerce and communications through the use of our digital certificates and related trust services."

    "Deploying secure e-commerce applications in a timely manner is becoming a fundamental imperative for enterprises all over the world," said Tony Suarez, director of First Union National Bank Certification Authority. "Netscape and VeriSign are creating a valuable online resource and a set of interoperable products and services that will ensure that companies and individuals have the information and tools needed to interact safely and confidently online."

    Availability
    The debut of the Netcenter Security Center by VeriSign is currently planned for end of March 1999. Product and service integration between the two companies has begun and will be ongoing throughout the term of the agreement.

    Netscape Communications Corporation
    Netscape Communications Corporation is a leading provider of software and services for businesses that want to transform the way they create and keep customers in the emerging Net Economy. The company offers a full line of enterprise software solutions, professional services, and a leading Internet portal to help companies build, buy, or outsource Internet applications that drive revenue growth, build customer loyalty, and create new levels of business efficiency. Traded on NASDAQ under the symbol NSCP, Netscape Communications Corporation is based in Mountain View, California.

    Additional information on Netscape Communications Corporation is available on the Internet at http://home.netscape.com, by sending email to info@netscape.com, or by calling 650/937-2555.

    VeriSign, Inc.
    VeriSign, Inc. (Nasdaq:VRSN) is the leading provider of Internet-based trust services and digital certificate solutions needed by Web sites, enterprises, electronic commerce service providers and individuals to conduct trusted and secure electronic commerce and communications over IP networks. VeriSign's digital certificate services for Web sites and consumers are available through the company's Web site. The company's digital certificate services for enterprises and electronic commerce service providers are available through regional account representatives, resellers, and global affiliates.

    All rights reserved. VeriSign is a registered trademark exclusively licensed to VeriSign, Inc. OnSite is a service mark of VeriSign, Inc. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

    Netscape, Netscape Navigator and the Netscape N and Ship's Wheel logos are registered trademarks of Netscape Communications Corporation in the United States and other countries. Other Netscape logos, product names, and service names are also trademarks of Netscape Communications Corporation, which may be registered in other countries. Other product and brand names are trademarks of their respective owners.