Meru Debuts Enterprise Wireless Backbone Switch

Meru Networks introduced an enterprise-class "Wireless Backbone System" aimed at eliminating the need for wiring in the distribution and access networks for both voice and data, and delivering un-tethered access to business-critical applications with the same reliability, security and service fidelity they have come to expect from traditional wired, switched networks. The new Meru Wireless Backbone System consists of:

• Meru AP150-WB a new, dual radio access point designed for low-density environments
• Meru Radio Switch RS4000-WB, a new version of Meru's RS-4000 Radio Switch with software that delivers new, enhanced capabilities to enable wireless backbone links
• Meru AP208-WB, a new version of Meru's AP-200 access point with software that delivers new, advanced features to enable wireless backbone links
• Meru Wireless Backbone Software application for the Meru line of MC Controllers

Meru said its network architecture is similar to wired Ethernet networks which use a hierarchical internetworking design model consisting of access layer switches, distribution layer router-switches and a core layer. The Meru Wireless Backbone System, which offers unique "AirChannel" Backbone Links, lets IT organizations build a scalable hierarchical network comprised of an all-wireless access layer and a high performance, all-wireless distribution layer, all connected over a wireless backbone.

Meru estimates that its wireless system reduces the costs associated with building out the enterprise LAN by more than 70%. By un-tethering access points and delivering a wireless access and distribution layer, the Meru Wireless Backbone System reduces the high costs associated with wiring new data and voice ports in offices, or for moves, adds or changes. In addition, the Meru Wireless Backbone System eliminates the need for rewiring if access points themselves are moved or added to provide improved coverage.

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Wireless LANs Need to Evolve toward Cellular Wireless Architecture Recent IEEE 802.11 task groups have worked to improve the speed of wireless networking and increase the sophistication of the 802.11 base itself. Unfortunately, 802.11 is still hamstrung by a fundamental problem. Given the ever-increasing need to have real predictability in networks that will soon top out at over 600Mbps and rival the capacity of wired networking, it is clear that 802.11 needs to embrace a cellular wireless networking architecture and associated technologies.