TECHNOLOGY - June 25, 1998

Santa Clara-based 3Com Corp.’s reported fiscal fourth-quarter profit rose, in line with analysts’ expectations, as the No. 2 computer-networking company focused on boosting sales amid increased competition. 3Com’s profit before a gain and a charge in the quarter ended May 31 rose to $65.9 million, or 18 cents a share, from income of $41.8 million, or 12 cents, in the year-earlier period. 3Com was expected to earn 17 cents a share, based on a survey of analysts. The company also said it would buy back up to 10 million of its shares, or 2.8%.