Networking specialist Netgear announced the release of two wireless access point platforms aimed at small and midsize businesses, the ProSafe Wireless N Access Point (WNAP320) and the ProSafe Dual Band Wireless N Access Point (WNDAP360). The access points are designed for first-time, small company single installations or for widely scattered corporate network "edge" deployments.
Both come with a lifetime warranty and security features such as WPA and WPA2 encryption, multiple VLAN and VPN pass-through support, rogue access-point detection and 802.1X authentication with RADIUS support. The two access points automatically integrate with the company’s WC7500 series wireless controller hardware and WMS management software and systems, which the company said helps control management costs even when user and device counts increase. Power over Ethernet (IEEE 802.3afPOE), wireless bridging and repeating capabilities, and an "easy mount" frame with a plain white cover make for simplified setup on walls or ceilings.
"Mobile computing devices now outsell desktop PC platforms, and wireless networks are now mission-critical for businesses of all sizes. Delivering wireless video, voice and data solutions often bring hidden management costs" said Maggie Wu, product line manager for wireless networking at Netgear. "The ProSafe WNAP320 and dual band WNDAP360 are part of our continuing campaign to deliver ‘smart IT, not big IT’ solutions for growing companies demanding reliable, affordable and simple solutions."
The ProSafe Wireless-N Access Point (WNAP320) is available now worldwide with a MSRP in the United States of $350. The ProSafe Dual Band Wireless-N Access Point (WNDAP360) will be available later in the second quarter of 2011 at a price to be announced, the company said. The Netgear announcement also noted WC700 series wireless controllers and WMS series wireless management software and appliances are sold separately.
For more, read the eWEEK article: Netgear Debuts Mobility and Converged Networking Platform.