Ruckus, TP-Link Among Latest WiFi Options to Increase Speed, Security

by Nathan Eddy

One of the Archer C8’s main selling points is its ability to operate simultaneously over the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, which means bandwidth-light tasks such as sending emails or Web browsing are handled by the 2.4GHz band, while a fast, less congested 5GHz band processes bandwidth-intensive tasks. So when consumers are accessing digital entertainment on their Blu-ray player, Roku or Xbox, bandwidth needs are better met.

The Archer C8 has three dual-band detachable antennas to provide omnidirectional wireless coverage and reliability, while one-touch WPA deploys wireless security encryption with the Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) button. An additional, customizable control allows users to set Internet bandwidth for individual applications and devices, which can be prioritized and controlled automatically.

The router also sports multifunction USB ports (USB 2.0 and USB 3.0), so users can attach various USB-compatible storage devices for simplified file sharing between connected devices. As an example, the USB 2.0 port could be used for printer sharing, while the high transfer speed of USB 3.0 ports are better suited for media streaming through a connected USB external hard drive.

The Archer C8 is also equipped with beamforming technology that locates multiple connected devices and boosts the wireless signal strength in those directions, delivering a more targeted and efficient wireless connection. Other performance features include an 800MHz dual-core central processing unit to keep things running smoothly. The Archer C8 will set you back about $130 and is available from the company’s retail and online partner network across America.

The Xclaim line consists of four sophisticated indoor and outdoor 802.11n and 802.11ac WiFi systems for small businesses designed within lightweight and low-profile form factors. A recent report from Dell’Oro Group estimates that the market opportunity for selling enterprise WiFi gear into the small and distributed branch office segment will jump from $700 million in 2013 to $1.4 billion by 2018.

Included within the Xclaim portfolio is the free Harmony for Xclaim mobile application, which was purpose-built for Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android operating systems. The app is designed to streamline installation, configuration and ongoing administration of a WiFi network.

Capabilities such as dynamic channel selection, band steering, client isolation and airtime fairness all come standard in Xclaim access points to ensure the highest levels of WiFi reliability, security and performance—and it’s all automated to boot.

The Xclaim product portfolio includes four models, starting with the based Xi-1 indoor 802.11n access point, which sells for $89. The Xi-2 sells for $149, while the Xclaim Xi-3 access point lists for $199 and the Xclaim Xo-1 outdoor 802.11ac access point is available for $299. The app is free and is available through the Apple Store or Google Play for Android smartphones.

Earlier in October, Netgear released two access points, with one being aimed at outdoor environments. The dual-band 802.11ac wireless AP, known as the WAC120, supports dual-band concurrent operation at 2.4GHz and 5GHz, with combined throughput of up to 1.2G bps (300M bps at 2.4GHz and 867M bps at 5GHz), the company said. The WPS button enables client auto-configuration, and the device comes with a three-year warranty.

The WND930 Weatherproof Outdoor AP extends network reach beyond fixed walls to provide WiFi access for outdoor environments. The device is available for $1,199 and is targeted at hotels, resorts, schools, health care facilities, multi-dwelling apartments and other organizations needing extensive outdoor wireless coverage for parks, playing fields, pool areas, parking lots and other sites.