Products of 3COM

3Com: A Pioneer in Networking Technology

3Com Corporation was a major technology company specializing in computer networking and telecommunications. Founded in 1979 by Robert Metcalfe, one of the inventors of Ethernet, 3Com played a crucial role in the development and commercialization of Ethernet technology, which became the foundational protocol for local area networks (LANs) around the world.

Key Areas of Expertise and Products

Networking Equipment

• Ethernet Technology: 3Com was a pioneer in Ethernet, which remains the most widely used technology for LANs. Their early Ethernet products included network interface cards, hubs, and switches.
• Switches and Routers: 3Com developed a range of networking switches and routers, which were widely used in both small and large-scale enterprise networks.
• Wireless Networking: The company also developed wireless networking solutions, contributing to the early proliferation of Wi-Fi in business and home environments.

Telecommunication Solutions

• Voice over IP (VoIP): 3Com was involved in the development of VoIP technologies, which allowed voice communication over data networks, reducing reliance on traditional phone systems.

• Unified Communications: The company offered solutions that integrated voice, video, and data communications for businesses, enhancing productivity and communication efficiency.

Acquisition and Legacy

In 2010, 3Com was acquired by Hewlett-Packard (HP) for approximately $2.7 billion. This acquisition allowed HP to expand its networking portfolio, integrating 3Com's technology with HP's own offerings. The 3Com brand was eventually phased out, but its legacy lives on through HP's networking products.