The Mobile Packet Data Service (MPDS) is an efficient way of handling network traffic since most modern office applications are based on the Internet Protocol (IP).

These applications, such as e-mail, web browsing and intranet access, can remain running continuously, but they only send and receive data in bursts when an action is taken. This enables users efficiently and cost-effectively to share a 64kbit/s satellite channel.

The animation below illustrates the process of how a remote user connects to the Internet via a virtual private network (VPN) using MPDS.

Inmarsat's Mobile Packet Data Service (MPDS) is designed to support the wide range of IP-based applications now common in the corporate environment. The benefit of MPDS is that the user can remain connected to the network, paying only for the amount of data transferred not the length of time spent online.

Cost-effective complement to Mobile ISDN
MPDS is designed for the applications and network activity that use only part of the bandwidth available with Mobile ISDN, Inmarsat's other Global Area Network (GAN) service.

Seamless access to applications
MPDS is compatible with a range of Microsoft operating systems as well as Mac. It provides remote local area network (LAN) and intranet access, and enables dedicated, secure links to be set up over a virtual private network (VPN).

Global reach
MPDS is supported on the Inmarsat I-3 satellites, providing near-global coverage apart from the poles.

Avoids the need for a fixed line network
MPDS is an IP-based data service providing secure, reliable access to the Internet and corporate computer networks, even where the local telecom infrastructure is either poor, non-existent or expensive.

Compatible with data networks
With a suitable account with an Inmarsat service provider, connecting to the MPDS network is similar to creating and using a dial-up connection, which makes connecting to the Internet or an intranet straightforward. MPDS also permits integration with virtual private networks, for enhanced security.

The table below compares the applications best suited to Mobile ISDN and MPDS.

	Mobile ISDN	MPDS
Typical applications	videoconferencing	web browsing
Charging	User pays per minute of connection time	e-mail session
Main service features	Two-way 64kbit/s ISDN	web-based e-mail
Other service features	Optionally, a 64kbit/s Unrestricted Digital Information (UDI) channel. STU-III and other security add-ons	database queries
		IP / LAN connectivity
		intranet access
		secure packet data

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