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WiMax

Mar 1 2008   4:48AM GMT

Rogue Wireless Devices Create Security Risk



Posted by: Tony Bradley
802.11n, Mobile, 802.11, BlackBerry, iPhone, Mobile device, wi-fi, WiMax, Wireless

Wireless networks can be cost effective and help employees to be more productive, freeing them to move about while still maintaining access to necessary data and network resources. Since the inception of wireless networking though, corporations have struggled with the security implications. With compliance mandates such as the PCI Data Security Standards, or HIPAA, it is even more important that companies are aware of every possible vector of risk to their network resources and data assets. However, so many devices have wireless functionality now, and it is so easy for users to set up rogue wireless networks without authority, that it is extremely difficult to stay on top of the security issue. Mobile device security: Auditing the airwaves, by Lisa Phifer takes a look at these issues and some ways administrators can monitor for, detect, and proactively manage the wireless access to their networks.

Jan 29 2008   6:26PM GMT

Hyperconnectivity: Accessing the Internet Anywhere From Everything



Posted by: Tony Bradley
Internet2, Mobile, 802.11, BlackBerry, iPhone, Mobile device, wi-fi, WiMax, Wireless, Broadband

At some point in the future, maybe the next generation will simply see the rate of evolution of technology as a given. A normal way of life. On a day to day basis, I don’t think that much about it, but when I look back and realize just how much has been invented, and developed in just the past 10 or 15 years, and the rate that technology changes, it is somewhat mind-boggling. It wasn’t that long ago that 56Kbps modems were considered to be blazing fast. But, the extent of most users access to the Internet was from their employer’s network, or via dial-up on a 56k modem from home. Now, there are still some stubborn stragglers using dial-up, but broadband access with 24/7 connectivity is becoming the norm instead of the exception for home users. Notebook computer sales, even for consumers, have skyrocketed. Cell phones are PDA’s and mini-computers all rolled into one. From my cell phone, I can surf the Web, look up a phone number, click the linked phone number, and automatically initiate a call. While I used to have to be in my home or at my office desk to access the Internet, now I can access the Internet from almost anything and almost anywhere. This article from Computerworld takes a mort in-depth look at the trend of “hyperconnectivity” and what it means for the future of technology and communications.


Jan 3 2008   6:38PM GMT

Choosing a Wireless Platform



Posted by: Tony Bradley
3g, 802.11n, Mobile, 802.11, Mobile device, wi-fi, WiMax, Wireless

If you are a road-warrior and do most, if not all, of your computing from anywhere but your desk in your office, you need to know how to stay connected. Whether you are in a hotel, driving down the interstate, waiting for a flight at an airport, or stopping off for a cup of coffee, you want to be able to access your email, the Web, and other Internet-based resources. There are some emerging and cutting edge technologies that are not quite ready for primetime, but, according to network expert Lisa Phifer, you basically have to choose between 3G and WiFi. Take a look at this overview for more advice from Lisa about the pros and cons, and the factors you should consider in choosing which wireless platform works best for you.


Nov 7 2007   9:05PM GMT

Cisco Buys Its Way Into WiMax Technology



Posted by: Tony Bradley
WiMax, Navini, 802.16, 802.11, wi-fi, Wireless, Cisco

WiMax, based on the 802.16 standard, claims a transmission range 100 times greater than standard 802.11 WiFi networks. Because WiMax devices will be able to connect over a much larger area than standard wireless networks allow, WiMax offers more potential for developing large-scale wireless networks that cover entire cities or counties. Cisco is jumping into the WiMax fray through the acquisition of Navini Networks, Inc. According to a report on Computerworld.com, “Cisco said it is particularly interested in Navini’s expertise with “smart beamforming” technologies used with multiple-input, multiple output antenna arrays, which in Wi-Fi systems allow base stations to handle much higher data throughput.”


Oct 19 2007   8:36PM GMT

WiMax and 3G Converge



Posted by: Tony Bradley
WiMax, 3g, Mobile, wi-fi, Wireless, Mobile device

It has been one of those epic technology battles: VHS v. Betamax, Windows v. Mac, BlueRay v. HD DVD, WiMax v. 3G, etc. Well, VHS definitely beat Betamax. The Windows v. Mac battle is debatable with near religious zealotry on either side. The Blueray v. HD DVD battle may be decided this holiday season. But, apparently the WiMax v. 3G battle has been decided by converging them into the same standard, making them both winners. Mobile phone service providers around the globe have battled between the two wireless technologies as mobile phones and wireless networking have converged. Read this ZDNet article for more details: WiMax Joins 3G Family.