Vodafone today launched its Secure Remote Access (VSRA) system designed to provide safe, managed mobile links into corporate networks from user laptops.

The mobile operator hopes that sales of VSRA data cards and software will boost the revenues of its consultancy services arm, which will take on responsibility for configuring, installing and managing mobile security on behalf of the customer.

But whilst Vodafone is set to lower the pricing of its 3G Mobile Broadband service on Monday, it would not reveal VSRA pricing on the basis that it uses wired and wireless broadband links from different bearers (including WiFi).

VSRA also involves consultancy fees and integration with corporate email, customer relationship management (CRM) and field force scheduling systems.

"It is very hard to give a unit [per megabyte] price, because it could confuse customers. It depends on the different elements needed, and the complexity of the back end integration with the customer system," said Vodafone spokesman, Alec Howard.

The VSRA interface differs from Vodafone's current mobile client by enforcing the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) and anti-virus software security tools, and blocking applications like instant messaging (IM).

VSRA is intended to replace ad-hoc WiFi access that roaming corporate users often purchase to send email and access other central systems whilst out of the office, the cost of which is usually 'lost in expenses' said Vodafone.

It is similar to what is currently offered by iPass, though iPass lacks the mobile data ability that Vodafone provide, argued Howard.

"Vodafone has been talking about its remote access service for long time, but iPass is already the brand of choice for this type of thing, and it already has partnerships with most of the big operator groups," commented Ovum analyst, Jeremy Green. "I think that Vodafone finds that kind of thing much harder to do. "

Vodafone's head of enterprise mobility solutions, David Hughes, hopes VSRA will drive more customers to use Vodafone's consultancy services, but denied that it is intended to drive more users off WiFi and DSL, and onto more expensive 3G data tariffs.

"We will utilise the whole portfolio, including WiFi. Ultimately it is about references and credentials, and we recognise that we have a journey to go as far as providing consultancy services is concerned," he said.

Vodafone Professional Services is backed by around 250 staff, 60 per cent of whom are technical architects and project managers, and 40 per cent technical and post sales support.

As of Monday, prices for the Mobile Broadband service will be £25 for a month, or £8.50 for 24 hours, both in the UK and abroad, whilst the Mobile Broadband travel bundle will be increased from 100MB to 200MB for £95.