SMC Networks Solves Wireless LAN Security Vulnerabilities With Introduction Of EliteConnect WLAN Security System

SMC Networks, an industry-leading provider of wired and wireless networking solutions for the home, SOHO, small-to-medium businesses, and enterprises today announced the launch of its EliteConnect WLAN Security System, a robust security and management solution that incorporates VPN technology to solve the security vulnerabilities of WEP and provides network administrators with virtual private network tunneling, user authentication and rights management.

The scalable EliteConnect WLAN Security System, comprised of the WLAN Secure Server (SMC2504W) and WLAN Access Manager (SMC2502W), is a network control system that integrates with part or all of existing wireless networks. The EliteConnect WLAN Security System is interoperable with all 802.11 standards, Bluetooth and wired Ethernet. For advanced security, the WLAN Security System enables secure VPN network traffic from the wireless client to the existing LAN infrastructure.

"With the introduction of the EliteConnect WLAN Security System, we've rounded out our comprehensive portfolio of wireless LAN solutions designed for the SMB and SME sectors," explained Philip Teo, Product Manager, Asia Pacific for SMC Networks. "The EliteConnect system effectively solves the security and management problems that have plagued wireless networks since their inception. Organizations that have been hesitant to deploy the cost saving, mobility-enhancing WLAN technology can now implement wireless networks with confidence that they can maintain the positive control and security required to protect their corporate assets."

Designed with an emphasis on network security, the SMC EliteConnect WLAN Secure Server (SMC2504W) offers an all-in-one solution that provides network protection and access management of the wireless network. The Secure Server centrally manages authentication and user rights for all wireless users, presents logon screens, and enforces access and usage policies. For added security, the Secure Server includes built-in VPN support (PPTP/L2TP/IPSec) to provide secure wireless communications to and from the wireless clients. To enhance mobility within the wireless network, the Secure Server creates a wireless environment that allows wireless clients to roam across different subnets, maintaining active sessions and eliminating the need for re-authentication.

The SMC EliteConnect WLAN Access Manager (SMC2502W) connects to all network access points, regardless of their wireless standard, through four 10/100 RJ-45 ports. All traffic between each wireless client and the rest of the network passes through the Access Manager. The Access Manager, which includes a robust packet inspection engine, monitors network traffic, enables Layer 3 roaming across multiple subnets, and enforces pre-configured user rights from the Secure Server once the users have been authenticated. To manage the wireless network, the Access Manager supports complete session logging and persistent session roaming. The WLAN Access Manager is also used as a VPN (PPTP/L2TP/IPSec) termination endpoint where secure tunnels are created between the wireless client and the Access Manager.

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, SMC's WLAN Security System is available via its authorised distributors ASI Solutions, IT Wholesale and Veritech Australia at an estimated street price of $AUD11,999 for the Secure Server, and $AUD5,999 for the Access Manager. For additional information, visit http://elite.smc.com.

About SMC Networks

For 30 years, SMC Networks has set the standard for high-quality, standards-based PC connectivity and Internet access. SMC leverages global manufacturing resources and strategic relationships with technology innovators to bring to market a growing range of affordable, leading-edge products.

These include award-winning Gigabit and Fast Ethernet Switching, Broadband, and Wireless connectivity products for small-to-medium sized enterprises, small office/home office and networked homes. In addition, the company provides a complete line of traditional network hardware solutions. For additional information, visit www.smc.com or call 02 8875 7887