MidCore Software has launched a modem sharing product, MidPoint Gateway, targeted at small businesses, workgroups and individuals who want faster access to the Internet.

MidPoint combines the throughput of modems on up to four ordinary phone lines to provide high-speed shared access to the Web, email and other Internet services.

The product combines two 33.6Kb modems to create up to a 67.2Kb connection to the Internet. Since it uses ordinary lines and modems, ISDN or higher throughput can be delivered at the cost of a local call, which is more economical than ISDN.

The software supports US Robotics' x2 and Rockwell's K56Plus technologies, providing as much as 224Kbps of downstream bandwidth over four standard phone lines. It doesn't require installation of a hardware router and proxy server.

MidPoint Gateway is available in five, 20 and 50 user editions. Workgroups can establish Internet access for $24/user or less. MidPoint Companion retails for $129 and supports one or two users. (www.midcore.com)