3Com Corporation, founded in 1979, was an American manufacturer of electronic devices best known for its computer networking products. The company played a pivotal role in the development of networking technologies, making significant contributions to such innovations as:
Ethernet Network Cards: 3Com developed and introduced the first commercial Ethernet network card in 1985, pioneering the way for connecting computers into networks.
Routers and Switches: 3Com offered a wide range of routers and switches that enabled businesses and institutions to build and manage complex computer networks.
Wireless Access Points: 3Com was one of the early producers of wireless access points, allowing users to connect to the network without cables.
IP Telephony Systems: 3Com provided IP telephony systems that integrated telephony features with computer networks.
Intrusion Prevention Systems: 3Com offered intrusion prevention systems that safeguarded computer networks from unauthorized access.
3Com earned a reputation as an innovative and reliable company, and its products were widely used in schools, offices, and homes around the world.
Key Milestones in 3Com's History:
1985: Introduced the first commercial Ethernet network card.
1993: Acquired NetServ, a leader in network servers.
1997: Merged with U.S. Robotics, a modem manufacturer.
2000: Split into two companies: 3Com and CommScope.
2009: 3Com was acquired by Hewlett-Packard.
Today, 3Com is no longer an independent company, but its networking products continue to be used and valued worldwide.