D-Link's New AirPremier Access Point Simplifies, Automates Deployment

D-Link Systems has introduced the D-Link AirPremier DWL-2210AP, a new 802.11g access point that incorporates adaptive features to automate and simplify configuration, installation and maintenance tasks. While these new capabilities may cut into solution providers' service earnings, there are benefits to automating the deployment process. Solution providers now have the freedom to send junior technical staff to install these units. Tech support costs, which are often unbillable, should also decrease. Other advantages center around the elimination of extensive site surveys and the associated costs, making a Wi-Fi deployment more attractive to even the most frugal customers.

The DWL-2210AP offers several advantages for the small- to midsize-business market. Beyond the unit's self-configuring capabilities, the DWL-2210AP brings clustering technology and concise, single-point management to a WLAN deployment.

D-Link's solution provides a broadband router and two DWL-2210AP access points. The router was connected to a broadband Internet connection, and both access points and an Ethernet-wired PC were attached to the router. Two notebook computers with integrated Intel Centrino technology were used to test the wireless functionality.

Deployment of the access points was straightforward. The units' setup and use border on plug-and-play. Installers used D-Link's KickStart application to perform the initial configuration. KickStart is a browser-based wizard that configures the initial access point with all the necessary administrative settings. These settings are used as the basis for deployment of additional access points.

These additional access points are controlled by a configuration policy, which the installer defines on the initial access point. When set to configure automatically, the policy pushes the WLAN settings to any new DWL-2210AP added to the network. Solution providers will appreciate the unit's ability to detect and isolate rogue access points, which allows it to identify any that are not part of the cluster. This feature helps eliminate unauthorized access points.

Once the initial access point is configured, installers will find adding new ones a snap. Any new access point that is plugged into the network is automatically configured based on the defined WLAN policy and selected settings. This capability also extends to security settings, minimizing the time a new access point may be vulnerable to intrusion. The DWL-2210AP provides WEP and WPA encryption and authorization schemes. What's more, the units also include a simple RADIUS server, which allows administrators to use WPA security to the fullest.

Managing the cluster is quite easy. D-Link's browser-based administrative console offers an intuitive view of WLAN status. Administrators can monitor active sessions, access point usage statistics and other critical factors for maximizing the cluster's performance.

Another notable feature is the ability to support virtual WLANs. Administrators can define an additional WLAN setup for guest users without additional hardware requirements. The virtual WLAN can be cordoned off from the physical WLAN to provide an additional level of security.

D-Link's DWL-2210AP could give other WLAN vendors a run for their money. The solution's simplified setup, automated clustering and extensive feature set is hard to beat, especially for customers in the SMB market.

D-link offers a two-tier channel program. Authorized partners are required to generate quarterly sales of $15,000 or more, while solution providers that achieve Diamond status must meet sales targets of $60,000 or more. Margins range from 6 percent to 10 percent, and partners are entitled to priority technical support, priority return merchandise authorization, lead referral, a rebate percentage, access to a dedicated partner Web site and early product notification.

CHANNEL PROGRAM SNAPSHOTS
>D-Link AirPremier DWL-2210AP

COMPANY: D-Link Systems
Fountain Valley, Calif.
(800) 326-1688
www.dlink.com
AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS: None
DISTRIBUTORS: ASI, D&H, Ingram, Synnex, Tech Data
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CHANNEL RATING:

Note: Recommended status is earned with a score of eight stars out of 10