brown nosers and workaholics, the technology is here and now.

Several Island businesses have expressed an interest in becoming unplugged and hooking into wireless networking with CCSD Group Ltd.

CCS says it has so far signed only one customer, but senior network engineer with the company, Jay Simons said interest is widespread.

The company recently introduced their current system to Bermuda businesses at a special presentation held at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

"We have put out demos with interested customers,'' said Mr. Simons, "and we will do more, all people need do is ask.'' The wireless service is made possible through a piece of equipment called "an access point''. The palm sized box has a range of less than one hundred to about three hundred feet.

Optimally the units serve a range of about 100-150 feet with up to 24 users.

"After 150 feet performance deteriorates,'' said Mr. Simons.

For an outlay of a few thousand dollars the wireless LANS offers businesses greater "flexibility and mobility'' according to Mr. Simons.

"You won't have to be at your desk to do your work,'' he said. "If you have a busy office environment and find someone at your desk you can simply pick up your lap top and move to another part of the office.'' CCS were also touting their virtual private network (VPN) technology at the special presentation.

According to Mr. Simons VPN presents an alternative to expensive leased lines for firms that are concerned about security.

"Many businesses that have an office here and an office say in New York or London currently have a leased line between the two to ensure the security of their data,'' he said.

"With a VPN we would provide a virtual tunnel via the Internet,'' he added.

Data placed in the tunnel would be automatically encrypted, securing it from hackers.

The cost of implementing a VPN system ranges upwards of $3,000 depending on the features a business requires