News release

Vodafone UK Selects Compaq TeMIP OSS Solution for GPRS Network

Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE: CPQ) announced today that Newbury-based Vodafone UK is deploying Compaq's TeMIP (Telecommunications Management Information Platform) solution to provide network and services management for its GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) mobile network. Vodafone UK selected Compaq's TeMIP because of its proven ability to enhance service quality and increase network management efficiencies. Compaq Global Services will integrate the solution into Vodafone UK's network.

With its ability to integrate network and services management, TeMIP provides a true end-to-end view of GPRS services in the Vodafone network operations center. This enables Vodafone UK to manage across the entire advanced GPRS infrastructure: from radio access network, through the core transmission and packet backbone network infrastructure, to applications and servers. As a result, the state of any network component affecting the quality of service can be constantly visualized and monitored in real time. This comprehensive network view forms the basis for a service level view, which maps network monitoring information to service level and service objectives.

Through these capabilities Vodafone can, for example, 1) guarantee consistently high service levels on all services; 2) understand in real-time problems affecting service and prioritize their repair based on affected services; and 3) simplify the operations environment so that operators can spend more time ensuring service quality rather than moving between application screens, manually copying information and learning new systems.

Dave Targett, director of network operations at Vodafone UK, said, "We require integrated network and service management to ensure consistent high quality levels, with minimum extra effort in the operations center, as we introduce new mobile technologies and advanced services. Compaq Global Services and the Compaq OSS portfolio based on TeMIP have increased our efficiency in managing our 2G network. Now, we are extending those benefits to our GPRS network."

Vodafone UK, part of the Vodafone Group, the world's largest mobile operator, began its GPRS service in April 2001 after comprehensive trials.

Mitesh Desai, vice president, Compaq Global Telecom Solutions, said, "Vodafone UK requires a solutions partner with a broad grasp of the mobility business. Compaq's rich portfolio of OSS, BSS, ENS and IP mobility solutions enables us to help mobile operators like Vodafone UK make the transition to more complex next generation networks." Desai added, "With our combination of leading products, partner solutions, and global services, we are able to deliver comprehensive OSS and integrated network and services management, which is why the TeMIP product set is already managing more than 150 networks worldwide."

About Vodafone UK Limited

Vodafone UK Limited, with its 12.8 million customers, is part of the world's largest mobile community. Vodafone UK's principal business is the operation of a digital cellular radio network although Vodafone UK supplies products and services to independent outlets and has a wholly owned distribution channel with over 300 retail stores in the UK. Vodafone UK also has a record of successful technical innovation in the areas of messaging, wireless data applications and information services. The Newbury-based company currently employs over 10,000 people across the UK. Its parent company, Vodafone Group Plc, has grown to become the world's largest mobile telecommunications company, with interests in 28 countries and more than 95 million customers across the globe.

About Compaq

Founded in 1982, Compaq Computer Corporation is a leading global provider of enterprise technology and solutions. Compaq designs, develops, manufactures and markets hardware, software, solutions and services, including industry-leading enterprise storage and computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, communication products, and desktop and portable personal computers that are sold in more than 200 countries. Information on Compaq and its products and services is available at http://www.compaq.com.