BT Openworld/Linksys wireless LAN

The BTopenworld / Linksys wireless network access point and LAN cards are a huge leap away from the first generation of wireless products that were available to both individuals and companies. This product supplies an easy and very quick to set up “realistic” networking solution. Without the need for any of the mess and expense of Cat5 and standard cabling.

Specifications
• High speed transfer rate of up to 11Mbps
• Operating range up to 100M (indoors) 500M (outdoors)
• Compatible with Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000 and ME Operating Systems
• Capable of 128-Bit WEP
• Interoperable with IEEE 802.11b (DSSS) 2.GHz- compliant equipment

Set up
All the products are supplied with the same double sided, A4 “easy to use” instruction sheet.  They also come with intuitive, easy to install drivers on a single CD-ROM. Even with the limited amount of LAN knowledge, your complete wireless LAN can be ready to use in a matter of minutes. There is also a 24 hour support line, if you do experience any difficulty with setting up your LAN.

Aesthetics
Linksys have tried to move away from the normal hub and switch appearance that are usually associated with all LAN equipment. The access point “hub” is quite small with a 2 tone colour scheme and 2 adjustable antennas coming out the back of it. But it still appears to be in the normal form of a rectangular box with flashing lights on it.

Security
There is no need to worry about other people getting to your data if you are working at home or in the office with many other users connected to the same access point. The system can provide up to128-Bit WEP encryption, protecting your data from anyone but yourself.

Product testing
The UBS adapters and PC cards come with configuration and monitoring software, giving the user the ability to set the encryption levels, change the setting on card and also check the “Link quality” and the “signal strength” of the connection. The connection state and link quality (shown by the software) is not accurate. This does not actually effect physical performance, but is a bit misleading when the software says it is not connected, but you are still able connected to the LAN and browse the internet.
The working range for the device is very good, the adapters work though thick walls and also up to 4 floors down in an office build, this is an excellent feature for multi-floor offices or working upstairs at home.

Costs and where to buy?

The cost of the products separately are:-

Access point - £138-72. (Excluding Vat)
USB adapter - £97-02 (Excluding Vat)
Laptop Card - £78-46 (Excluding Vat)

For further information on costing or purchasing this product please goto;
www.linksys.com or www.btopenworld.com/wirelesslan

Summary
The BT Openworld / Linksys wireless network access point (WAP11-BT) combined with up to 30 UBS adapters (WUSB11-BT) or Laptop cards (WPC11-BT) is an excellent solution for any home or small office.  The product is very easy to set up and use with easy to follow instructions. It's working range is excellent both inside and outside the office and unlike other similar products, it is not effected by interference.