Lose the wires, keep the security: 6 wireless access points tested

  Wireless security
  Introduction (cont.)

  ANTLabs
  D-Link
  Netgear
  Nortel
  SonicWALL
  3com

 Specifications
 How we tested
 Sample Scenario
 Final words
 Editor's choice
 About RMIT
ANTlabs
ezXcess SG Standard
Funk Software Steel Belted RADIUS

InTechnology is better known as the local supplier of Funk software, however on this occasion the vendor delivered one of a series of products from ANTlabs called ezXcess. This product is not a wireless access point, but a gateway device. This device is not strictly limited to wireless network applications either, however for the purposes of this review we will limit it to this task. We looked at the entry-level SG Standard. Other models have different network interfaces and can support larger numbers of VLANs and concurrent users.

Initial configuration is performed via a Web interface on the Trusted port. This enables the adminstrator to set up all the predefined ranges such as IP addresses, IP leases, and access modes. There are so many configuration options available it just is not funny; the designers have really left no stone unturned when looking at the functionality of this device. All this complexity provides the back-end for users to connect seamlessly with zero config. As soon as users connect to the AP and open a Web browser, they are presented with a login page from the ezXcess appliance. Administrators can select to authenticate users via 802.1x or RADIUS server. This is where Funk software's Steel Belted RADIUS comes in. There is even an option to use the system to generate billing data and information. Once set up and running, the day-to-day administration is minimal, in fact we would assume that the administrators would have more regular interaction with the RADIUS server than the ezXcess appliance itself.

For businesses looking to provide users with temporary hassle-free access to their network resources, this solution is definitely something to consider. For businesses wanting to separate their WLAN network infrastructure and authenticate the users separately from other network connections, this is the appliance for them.

ANTlabs
Product ANTlabs ezXcess
Price Gateway from AU$3500 for 50 users
Vendor InTechnology
Phone 07 5657 5050
Web www.antlabs.com.au
 
Interoperability
Excellent interoperability; works with any wirelss LAN access point.
Futureproofing
Provides gateway security between wired and wireless networks, a task that will be in incraesing demand.
ROI ½
Excellent price for features.
Service ½
One-year warranty appears standard for gateway devices.
Rating

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