Designed to work with WatchGuard's Unified Threat Management (UTM) Firebox appliances, the AP300 delivers wireless access with advanced security services to help industry providers better protect customers across Wi-Fi networks. The AP300 offers the latest 802.11ac standard and a host of new wireless features to solve business problems including Fast Roaming to improve quality for VoIP devices; Fast Handover, which forces "sticky" devices with low signal strength to quickly connect to the next AP; and Band Steering to move devices to the clearer 5GHz band.
Wireless trends are growing with Wi-Fi access becoming ubiquitous in businesses, stores, corporate environments and public spaces. Organizations are offering guest Wi-Fi access so customers can go online via cell phones, laptops and devices. However, security is an often overlooked yet critical element in the explosion of wireless today. As the use of wireless increases, so does the vulnerability to both opportunistic and targeted attacks.
"Organizations across all industries are facing increased pressure from customers, vendors, and employees to offer wireless access. Unfortunately, hackers are also constantly trying to gain a foothold into the network," said Ryan Orsi, director of product management at WatchGuard. "Organizations need to play better defense, especially on Wi-Fi networks. Businesses that fail to properly secure their Wi-Fi networks, including guest hotspots, may expose customers, partners, and internal users to a variety of risks. The AP300 provides the latest wireless technology and best-in-class security features working together to help protect customers from threats online via Wi-Fi networks."
Ian Kilpatrick, chairman of WatchGuard distributor Wick Hill Group, commented: “While these risks have been around for a long time, organisations and retail providers are now (often belatedly) moving to deal with this challenge. We have seen exceptional growth in demand in the last six months, driven in part by the recent spate of high profile breaches, and in part by the range of capabilities and ease of implementation.”