Agere Systems Announces the First USB Support for High-security Wireless Networking.

Business/Technology Editors

Networld+Interop Atlanta 2001

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 11, 2001

Agere Systems (NYSE: AGR.A) today announced USB support for the ORiNOCO(TM) Access Server (AS-2000) high-security wireless networking system. By using the "plug-and-play" ORiNOCO USB Client device, IT managers no longer have to open up desktop computers and install PCI- or ISA-based devices to provide high-security wireless networking.

Developed to guard against network hacking and data interception, the ORiNOCO AS-2000 system delivers enhanced levels of wireless networking security. The system provides true "per-user, per-session" encryption keys (both to and from clients) and Automatic Individual Encryption Key Management, which generates a new, unique session key each time a user logs on to the network. It supports roaming workers and provides enhanced security even as they travel from one part of a facility to another. The AS-2000 uses a version of RC-4 encryption that is resistant to hacking and interception technologies.

Network managers are able to control access to their entire wireless network using the AS-2000. Working in tandem with a RADIUS server that provides user Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (AAA), the AS-2000 identifies individual users before allowing them access to the network and authorizes them for service according to their password and current account status. Because the AS-2000 does not require a proprietary RADIUS server, it allows IT managers to use whatever brand of RADIUS technology they prefer.

The ORiNOCO Access Server 2000 is a two-slot access point with a 10/100 Mbit/s Ethernet connection. By putting a radio in each slot, IT managers can get a total bandwidth of 22 Mbit/s per access point.

In addition, the AS-2000 provides a smooth migration path to the next generation of high-speed, 802.11a wireless LAN technologies. Today, IT Managers can install an AS-2000 in their network and populate them with 802.11b radios. As 802.11a radios become available, they can replace the "b" radios with new "a" radios. Since the AS-2000 can accommodate two radios, IT Managers have the option of replacing only one radio at a time, enabling them to smoothly migrate to the new technology.

"The Access Server 2000 wireless networking system is the industry's most powerful, most secure networking technology on the market today," said Jan Haagh, ORiNOCO product manager at Agere Systems. "Not only does the Access Server 2000 system provide the security that IT managers demand today for their wireless networks, it also provides a smooth migration path to the new 802.11a wireless LAN technologies. It's the best of both worlds - high security today - faster WLANs tomorrow."

The new software for the USB client devices is currently available for free download from http://www.orinocowireless.com.

Agere Systems' Wireless Communications and Networking (WCN) business is a global leader in wireless local area network (WLAN) technology. It designs and sells ORiNOCO products through a network of OEM customers including personal computer makers such as Apple Computer, Compaq Computer, Dell Computer, Gateway Computer, Hewlett-Packard Company, IBM, and Toshiba Corp. Agere Systems also has established WLAN sales channels to enterprise customers through Avaya Inc., and to end-users through several e-commerce sites and a vast array of networking technology resellers. The ORiNOCO line of products encompasses a full range of Wi-Fi(TM) certified indoor and outdoor WLAN products, as well as enhanced security products for public areas and security-conscious enterprises. More information about Agere Systems' ORiNOCO products is available at http://www.orinocowireless.com or at 1-866-ORiNOCO for callers within the United States and [phone] for internation