The WAP11 from LinkSys is a conceptually simple device. Hook it up to your network physically via a 10BaseT port, wirelessly enable the rest of the devices on your network with 802.11b technology, and feel free to roam around while still meeting a data exchange rate of 11 Mbps. What's so hard about that?

The device that can make all of your office networking less messy by using less wiring measures 8.9 x 5 x 1.6 inches and weighs 12 oz. Now, the 11 Mbps data rate said above is conditional upon where you are, and where the data originates. If you are indoors, and less than around 150 feet away, or even outdoors and less than 820 feet away, you can easily get the transmission rates that high. However, if you are indoors and around 500 feet away, or outdoors and 1700 feet away, you'll almost be able to see the data flow through the air at 1 Mbps. Not really, but you might feel like you can.

Security with wireless devices is usually a big concern -- after all, we've heard stories about nosey neighbors that can tune in to your cordless phone conversations, why wouldn't someone be interested in your important corporate data? Well, the WAP11 supports 128-bit WEP, MAC address filtering, IP filtering, DHCP client, and SNMP configuration utility password protection. Basically that means that your data isn't floating around out there without any security around it when you use the WAP11.

Pricing and Availability

The LinkSys WAP 11 is currently available for $170.00.

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