CoNet Communications is putting some structure into home networking. Actually, they are making their XpressIP 8550 residential gateway available for Residential Structured Wiring Systems (RSWS). RSWS provides organization to home networks by having a central wiring location for home networks and incoming multimedia, data, and telecommunications services. XpressIP 8550 is designed to fit into structured wiring systems, which differs from most stand-alone residential gateways that operate independently. The XpressIP 8550 gateway is for the home builder or remodeler who is integrating networks using structured wiring in the home.

XpressIP 8550's main function is to link home networks to the Internet. It does this through an ADSL broadband connection that bridges the Internet data to home networks through a RJ45 10BaseT Ethernet port with data throughput at 10Mbps. XpressIP 8550 provides NAT addressing so that networked devices can share one IP address. In conjunction with NAT addressing, XpressIP 8550 supports DNS and DHCP client addressing, which provide auto-configuration for systems that need to be connected to the network. This plug and play network connectivity makes network management virtually invisible to the end user.

As with any broadband connection, security is an issue. NAT in itself masks home systems from the Internet and in conjunction with this XpressIP 8550 provides Web blocking, a firewall, and anti-virus protection. For those die-hard security seekers, it also supports Virtual Private Networking (VPN).

XpressIP 8550 can be managed locally or remotely. Functionality can be modified through a Web page or Telnet management utilities. TFTP file transfer protocols can upgrade software, configuration files and firmware. Performance monitor tools are built-in for analyzing data throughput and network activity. Password authentication allows access to management features.

XpressIP 8550 is designed to be modular and scalable with CoNet’s other home networking components. CoNet provides Ethernet switches to be used with the gateway. Ethernet switches eliminate collisions that normally occur on TCP/IP networks, which improves data throughput and guarantees bandwidth. CoNet’s Ethernet switches also support HomePNA or networking through the home phone line.

Pricing and Availability

The XpressIP 8550 is currently available; call CoNet for pricing.