Media Contact: Stephanie Stadler
On behalf of Secure Elements
Phone: 703-287-7819
e-mail: sstadler@sheahedges.com

Merlin Technical Solutions and Secure Elements Partner to Provide Enhanced Network Security to the Burgeoning Federal Market
Endeavor Increases Companies Footprint in Federal IT Market

DENVER, CO - Jan 9, 2006 - Merlin Technical Solutions, a leading federal IT solutions provider, today announced that it has formed a partnership with Secure Elements, the leader in enterprise vulnerability management and compliance risk reduction solutions.  Merlin will add Secure Elements vulnerability and risk compliance management applications to its core offerings, providing customers with a convenient source for both enterprise infrastructure as well as reliable network security solutions.  The companies will also conduct joint sales engagements.

"Providing a strong and secure IT infrastructure is a top priority for all branches of the federal government, but it is essential for the defense, intelligence and Homeland Security agencies we work with on a regular basis," said John Trauth, vice president of government sales, Merlin Technical Solutions.  "Partnering with Secure Elements enables us to integrate best-of-breed network security during the initial implementation."

While all levels of government are required to incorporate e-government initiatives into their current and future IT planning, federal agencies have a particular interest in maintaining secure network connections and eliminating unnecessary risks. Enterprise infrastructure streamlines routine processes, including those that involve sensitive data, as well as advances new technologies like network-centric warfare, both of which require an absolutely secure environment.

According to a December 2005 report by industry analyst firm Infonetics Research, worldwide revenues from the sale of network security appliances and software reached $1 billion last quarter. 

Merlin provides integrated solutions and professional services to federal, state and local government agencies and business in a variety of industries. Incorporating Secure Elements best-of-breed technology into its core offerings enables Merlin to add enhanced network security functionality into its custom enterprise solutions.

"We are extremely pleased to be working with Merlin. Partnering with one of the leading solutions providers in the nation allows our federal clients priority access to our security compliance applications," said Ned Miller, chief executive officer of Secure Elements.  "Their particular expertise working with agencies requiring implementation partners with security clearances make them a clear choice for as a leading solution delivery partner."

About Merlin Technical Solutions
Merlin Technical Solutions combines professional services with best-in-class information technology products, innovative financing programs and access to numerous contract vehicles to provide the public sector with total solutions that span the technology lifecycle. Today, more than 500 clients throughout the government count on Merlins expertise to help them define, integrate, deploy, and maintain systems and networks that align information technology with program and business goals. Learn more at http://www.merlints.com

About Secure Elements
Secure Elements develops innovative products that help organizations achieve IT security compliance.  We enable organizations to audit, evaluate, and comply with internal, industry, and regulatory policies.  Our solutions reduce business risk and IT management costs while improving systems performance and maintaining business continuity.  Based in Northern Virginia, Secure Elements serves organizations in the federal government and critical infrastructure markets, as well as the Global 1000.  http://www.secure-elements.com