Symbol Showcases Wireless Security, Management

The new offerings, The Symbol Wireless Intrusion Protection System (IPS), Symbol RF (radio frequency) Management and an upgraded Symbol WS2000 wireless switch, were each showcased at the event. All three are slated for launch in the third quarter, according to Symbol, Holtsville, N.Y.

Symbol Wireless IPS is designed to monitor, detect and prevent wireless network security breeches. Optimized for Symbol's wireless switch portfolio, IPS creates a comprehensive management environment for securing a wireless network, one that includes policy-based enforcement against unauthorized network access, defense against malicious radio-based devices or attacks, and real-time administrative notification of unauthorized activity on the wireless network, according to Symbol.

Symbol RF Management is designed to marshal and optimize the wireless airspace a WLAN occupies. The system monitors the surrounding airspace for RF disruptions, a process that detects potential wireless security threats while helping administrators manage the airwaves for optimal network performance. An ongoing "site survey" feature within RF Management also helps administrators better understand and adapt to changing environments, like those found in large distribution centers and warehouses.

The fact that a wireless security product and a wireless management product were introduced simultaneously is a natural fit, said Alan Marcus, vice president of marketing. "Security and management of this nature go hand in hand," said Marcus. He then demonstrated how the ability to detect and follow a rogue wireless signal within a network enabled faster remediation during a security breech.

The third product previewed, Symbol's upgraded WS2000 wireless switch, will offer enhanced support for public Wi-Fi hotspot deployment. Like its predecessor, the updated WS2000 is targeted at small businesses and the branch offices of enterprise organizations.

Michael Grambo, president of MDG Consulting, a recently opened VAR in Chicago, said he's looking at possibly reselling Symbol's wireless products.

"Wireless has matured beyond just merely providing a hot spot in the company's cafeteria," said Grambo. "It's now about running a company's critical applications over it, and there's a growing market for that."