* New SMC access points have better management and security features
SMC Networks this month will ship updated versions of its wireless LAN access points with better management and security.
The EliteConnect access points now offer QoS controls, support for WPA2, virtual LAN tagging, SNMP Version 3 and other enhancements. SMC positions the devices at both enterprise companies and small businesses.
The access points come in two variations. The EliteConnect Universal Wireless Access Point can, as the name implies, interoperate with a variety of WLAN devices, including those that support IEEE 802.11a, b, and g. The EliteConnect Wireless Access Point (without the “Universal”) is limited to 802.11b and g. The universal access point comes in at $350, a $50 premium over the other version.
SMC points out that the devices’ addition of QoS will help voice communications get through the WLAN in a timely fashion.
The SNMPv3 support can help an enterprise integrate the devices into its overall network management. The access points also have a Web-based interface for management, as well as a command-line interface and the company’s own SNMP-based management software.
Power over Ethernet support means that the access points can be deployed with just one cable providing both the electricity and the signal.
SMC also says the access points have high power output, so that you can cover wider areas with fewer access points, and that each access point should be able to serve up to 64 users simultaneously.
Security features include support for WPA2, up to 152-bit WEP encryption, AES encryption and 802.1x authentication.
