With the market picking up, vendors are busy launching new products.
With the market picking up, vendors are busy launching new products
Residential gateways by definition package up a broadband modem, some number of network interfaces, a firewall, and embedded software to deliver value-added services. While much of the gateway hardware is similar, embedded software features range considerably, especially among DSL gateway makers that rely on proprietary technology to provide remote configuration and administration, as well as applications such as parental controls.
Earlier this month Efficient Networks, the leading maker of DSL modems and a Siemens subsidiary, debuted the SpeedStream DSL Gateway Family. The devices include various combinations of Ethernet, 802.11g wireless and HomePlug power line network interfaces — or you can have all three. Efficient also debuted ControlNet, software that lets service providers extend their portal content to a user’s network. ControlNet features let you monitor LAN users’ Web sites, filter content and control Internet access by time of day. The company has yet to announce service provider partnerships, but its existing provider relationships will likely give it some advantage.
With a similar advantage comes Westell, the second leading DSL modem maker. In March, Westell announced its latest offering, the 2460 Gateway. Westell positions the gateway for home and small-office users; the box includes a four-port switch, USB port, 802.11b wireless and optional HomePNA. Software provides site filtering and parental controls as well as some management and diagnostics.
Around the same time Westell also announced the 2400-50 Gateway, which combines Westell’s DSL technology with the S=1/2 option. Incorporating this technology allows the gateway to deliver DSL rates up to 10M bit/sec, making it attractive for providers that want to offer broadcast video services such as video on demand and interactive gaming. Currently, Westell says it’s providing gateways to BellSouth and Verizon, as well as small providers in the U.S. and Canada.
In early July, Netopia announced the Cayman 3347W Wireless Gateway, also geared to home and small offices. (Netopia is a software developer that acquired gateway maker Cayman Systems a year ago.) To enhance wireless coverage, the device integrates the 802.11b wireless components on the motherboard and uses dual antennas to enhance wireless coverage. Netopia’s software, netOctopus, enables remote device support and management, and its parental controls let you control access by setting up individual user profiles. Netopia distributes gateways via SBC, BellSouth, EarthLink and Covad.
Last, 2Wire recently began offering a remote Web access application to its service provider partners. The service lets you access public folders on your home network containing files, music and photos. 2Wire’s Open Gateway Management Protocol delivers back-end configuration, management and billing tools, as well as applications for parental controls and firewall monitoring. 2Wire offers DSL gateways through BellSouth, SBC, Earthlink and others.
