Netgear WG302 ProSafe 802.11g access point

Netgear ProSafe 802.11g wireless access point delivers enterprise-class performance and features to small and medium businesses.

Netgear announced the launch of the WG302 ProSafe 802.11g Wireless Access Point, a value-priced enterprise-class access pointoffering advanced security and management features along with high-performance speeds and range designed to meet the demanding requirements of small- to medium-sized businesses (SMB) and hot spotdeployments. The IEEE 802.11g-compliant access point supports both 802.11b and 802.11g client devices, making it easy to migrate to the next generation of high performance wireless networkingtechnology while maximizing the current investment in existing 802.11b products.

Based on the Intel® Xscaleâ„¢ 422 processor, the versatile WG302 simultaneously supports an optional “SuperGâ„¢” static 108Mbps mode which provides extended data throughput speeds at longer ranges than possible with other Wi-Fi networking technologies in addition to the 54Mbps speeds of the 802.11g standard. A robust security feature set includes 40/64-, 128- and 152-bit WEP data encryption, MAC address authentication with 256-user access control list, and VPN pass-through support. For enhanced, interoperable wireless network security, IEEE 802.1x user-based authentication and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and dynamic 108Mbps mode will be available early 2004 via a free firmware upgrade.

“Small- to medium-sized businesses are increasingly looking to NETGEAR to provide value-priced, reliable, secure, and high-performance solutions to establish or expand their network infrastructures,” explained Lianne Caetano, Product Line Manager at NETGEAR. “Our growing line of ProSafe business-class networking products, which includes the WG302 and the soon-to-launch WAG302 802.11a+g Dual Band Wireless Access Point, offers the enterprise features found in other higher priced products, but does so more affordably and with easier installation and set-up.”

The WG302 supports IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling the access point to be powered by a 10/100 Mbps switch port that supports 802.3af, thus eliminating the need for the access point to be deployed near a power outlet and creating the opportunity for it to be placed for maximum coverage in the space above suspended ceilings. To further maximize network coverage in difficult areas, the WG302 is equipped with two powerful 5 dBi detachable antennas and is compatible with NETGEAR’s line of directional and omni-directional antennas and accessories.

The versatile, high-performance WG302 ProSafe 802.11g Wireless Access Point boasts an impressive set of enterprise-class features. Enabled with Wireless Distribution System (WDS), the WG302 supports wireless point-to-point bridging, point-to-multipoint bridging and repeater functionality for deployment over large areas. In addition, the WG302 has the ability to operate simultaneously as an access point and bridge. Advanced management features include remote configuration and management of individual or multiple WG302 access points through a Web browser, Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) or Telnet with command line interface (CLI).

Ideal for hot spot deployments, the WG302 features variable transmit power settings that allow users to adjust the coverage size of the access point, and wireless isolation to ensure that WLAN clients on a network are blind to each other.

The WG302, available in December 2003 through value-added resellers, direct mail and e-commerce channels at an estimated list price of $350, is backed by a three-year warranty and 24/7 technical support.