SMC Networks Introduces New Dual-Radio 802.11g Wireless Bridge.

IRVINE, Calif. -- --SMC's New 802.11g Dual-Radio Bridge extends networking by simultaneously bridging LANs and providing wireless access, eliminating costly cable runs while providing expanded access for mobile users

SMC(R) Networks (www.smc.com) today announced the newest in its SMB/e solutions set: the EliteConnect(TM) 2.4GHz dual-radio 802.11g Wireless Bridge (SMC2585W-G). The first in its class, the new SMC2585W-G can serve as a wireless bridge to connect two LANs and provide wireless client access simultaneously -- with full 54Mbps bandwidth for all links. Available in late September 2005 at an MSRP of $799.99, the new EliteConnect 2.4GHz 802.11g Wireless Bridge makes it easy to connect difficult-to-wire locations: branch offices, school or corporate campus environments, frequently changing workplaces, temporary LANs, hospitals and warehouses, while providing mobile user access at the same time.

The SMC2585W-G EliteConnect 2.4GHz dual-radio 802.11g Wireless Bridge is designed to bridge two or more wired LANs, usually located in different buildings, and brings added value by serving its second function -- as a wireless access point for in-building or mobile wireless users. Its three operational modes, Bridge Repeater, AP Repeater and Dual AP, make it a flexible and functional LAN extender. In Bridge Repeater mode, both WLAN interfaces are configured as LAN-to-LAN bridge interfaces; in AP Repeater mode, one WLAN interface is configured as an AP interface, and the other is configured as a LAN-to-LAN bridge interface; and in Dual AP mode, both WLAN interfaces are configured as AP interfaces. The dual AP can handle twice the number of wireless clients as a conventional Access Point, with the benefits of having full 54Mbps for each radio, all in one product.

Of course, security is a huge concern, especially when distributing network access wirelessly. The SMC2585W-G EliteConnect 2.4GHz dual radio 802.11g Wireless Bridge provides enterprise-level advanced authentication and encryption security features, including 64/128/152-bit WEP wireless data encryption, Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and authentication using 802.1X. Its advanced security also incorporates disable SSID Broadcast, wireless client isolation and MAC filtering. In addition, the new EliteConnect 802.11g Wireless Bridge provides multiple levels of protocol filtering (Ethernet, IP, TCP/UDP) to ensure network security.

The new EliteConnect 2.4GHz 802.11g Wireless Bridge also has flexible management features. Web and Telnet management are both built into this new bridge, making configuration and remote management of the network simple. In addition, SMC2585W-G supports SNMP for easy integration of the wireless LAN with the wired infrastructure. Other management features include an internal system log, TFTP, event log and syslog. And, the SMC2585W-G dual-radio 802.11g Wireless Bridge comes with the EliteConnect Management Utility that eases Network Administrators' large-scale remote management problems. Simple and intuitive to use, the EliteConnect Management Utility is a convenient and powerful tool that facilitates remote configuration, management and firmware upgrades for all SMC Wireless Bridges (SMC2586W-G, SMC2582W-G, and SMC2585W-G) to reduce the IT work burden and lower the total cost of ownership.

Where extended range is required, either or both of the SMC2585W-G's two detachable antennas (one for each of its 802.11b/g radio interfaces) can be replaced with any of SMC's 2.4GHz High Gain Antennas. And, with the optional SMCPWR-INJ3, the new EliteConnect Wireless Bridge also supports Power over Ethernet that adheres to 802.3af standard to further reduce installation cost by using standard Category 5 cable to provide power to the Wireless Bridge.

"The EliteConnect 802.11g dual-radio Wireless Bridge makes enterprise cross-campus networking easier and less costly, because it eliminates the need for building-to-building cable runs," said SMC Product Manager Brian Nickell. "Not only does this new bridge have industry-leading security and management, deploying a dual-radio 802.11g bridge gives users numerous options when it comes to bridging remote LANs and providing mobile client access, all simultaneously with one product."

The SMC EliteConnect dual-radio 802.11g Wireless Bridge (SMC2585W-G) is available beginning Sept. 30, 2005, at an MSRP of $799.99.

For more information about SMC Networks or its products, visit www.smc.com, or call 800-SMC-4YOU (800-762-4968).