AEP Networks to Distribute Leading Security Products Through Bell Microproducts

SOMERSET, NJ--(Marketwire - December 3, 2008) - AEP Networks today announced that it has signed a distribution agreement with Bell Microproducts Inc. (PINKSHEETS: BELM), one of the world's largest value-added distributors of storage and computing technology. Under the terms of the agreement, Bell Micro has begun distributing three solutions from AEP Networks' integrated portfolio of security products: AEP Netilla SSL VPN, AEP SmartGate and AEP Keyper.

"With a partner like Bell Micro, we can greatly enhance the support and availability of AEP Networks' products. Bell Micro will not only distribute our solutions in the U.S., but also in Latin America and in Canada," said Pat Donnellan, CEO of AEP Networks. "In addition, they have initiated a proactive Security Division in North America to build on the success they have experienced in the U.K., where the division is the U.K.'s largest distributor of IT security solutions and services."

Duncan Hume, director of Bell Micro's North American Security Division, added, "AEP will be a key supplier in our new North American Security Division, and we look forward to introducing our established customer base to the outstanding security products from AEP. I am also excited to share that, in 2009, we expect to begin distributing AEP Net as well, which is an independently assured encryptor that meets stringent VPN security standards."

The AEP Netilla SSL VPN quickly and securely makes business applications remotely available to employees and partners. With AEP SmartGate, organizations can rapidly deploy an application gateway security solution that can support thousands of simultaneous users. AEP Keyper allows for generation, storage and use high quality keys within a tamper reactive, FIPS-certified Hardware Security Module. All AEP products have been designed to meet the most stringent U.S., Canadian and U.K. security requirements. AEP's products will continue to be available through Alternative Technology as well.

To learn more or to order AEP Networks' products through Bell Micro, please visit www.bellmicrosecurity.com.

About Bell Microproducts Inc.

Bell Microproducts (PINKSHEETS: BELM) is an international, value-added distributor of a wide range of high-tech products, solutions and services, including storage systems, servers, software, computer components, and peripherals, as well as maintenance and professional services. An industry-recognized specialist in storage products, the company is one of the world's largest storage-centric value-added distributors.

Bell Microproducts is uniquely qualified with deep technical and application expertise to service a broad range of information technology needs. From design to deployment, its products are available at any level of integration, from components to subsystem assemblies and fully-integrated, tested and certified system solutions. More information can be found in the company's SEC filings, or by visiting the Bell Microproducts Web site at www.bellmicro.com.

About AEP Networks

AEP Networks offers a comprehensive Policy Networking solution that provides complete security starting at the endpoints and working throughout a network -- from the edge to the core. AEP's integrated portfolio of security products includes identity-based network and resource access control, SSL VPNs, high assurance IPSec-based VPN encryptors, and hardware security modules for key management. Our products address the most demanding security requirements of public-sector organizations and commercial enterprises internationally. The company is headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, with offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.aepnetworks.com.