August 1, 2006

802.11N - Faster & Longer Range - WiFi from Linksys

Linksys has added to its 802.11N WiFi product line by adding a Wireless-N Access Point (WAP4400N), Wireless-N Gigabit Security Router with VPN (WRVS4400N) and Wireless-N CardBus Adapter (WPC4400N). The wireless 802.11N "standard" is a draft standard so that means right now products from different vendors that are 802.11N compatible won't necessarily work together. If you must have the faster speeds and wider reach of 802.11N then make sure the products you get are from the same vendor.

Linksys writes - Designed to offer improved range and throughput, above wireless-G* products, and robust security features, the WAP4400N, WRVS4400N and WPC300N deliver the capacity for small businesses to wirelessly share data, use applications, access the Internet, or make Internet phone calls -- all at the same time at speeds greater than 10/100 Ethernet and with confidence that their network is highly secure. With whole-office coverage that virtually eliminates dead spots, Wireless-N enables business users the freedom to work, collaborate, and be productive everywhere, without the hassle of being tethered via wires.

"We wanted to offer wireless solutions that small businesses could use, set up and afford with the features they need to run their business effectively," said David Tucker, senior director of product marketing, Linksys Small Business Systems Business Unit. "Many of today's small businesses purchase consumer products that may not provide all the features they need or enterprise products which may be too expensive or difficult to use and install. We've taken a very direct approach to servicing the small business with products that were designed specifically for them."

Mixed Mode Operation and Backward Compatibility

Two additional key pieces of the 802.11n Draft Specification are the requirements that products provide both mixed mode operation and backward compatibility with 802.11g and 802.11b. Mixed mode operation designates that, unlike previous proprietary networking technologies, 802.11n networks must maintain optimum speeds when operating with legacy products. Backward compatibility helps to enable existing standards-based wireless products to work at their respective highest performance levels for that environment, protecting the customer's investment in existing wireless products. Linksys is also working with wireless chip providers to ensure interoperability and the best performance.

Pricing and Availability

The WAP4400N and WPC440N are available immediately through distribution, value added resellers and direct response for estimated street prices of $169 and $129, respectively. The WRVS440N Wireless-N Router is scheduled to be available in September for an ESP of $229.

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