The WRT54GP2A-AT Wireless-G Broadband Router can encode all wireless transmissions with up to 128-bit encryption. The router supports both Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). It can serve as a DHCP server, and an integrated SPI firewall protects connected PCs against intruders and attacks. The firewall supports VPN pass-through and can be configured to filter Internet access. Setup and configuration is done using an intuitive, easy-to-use browser-based utility.
CRN Test Center engineers tested the WRT54GP2A-AT router using a cable modem. Even though solution providers can offer customized configurations, the router worked right out of the box based on default settings programmed by the manufacturer. Signing up for CallVantage was quick and easy. Subscribers simply have to visit www.att.com/callvantage and select a calling plan. Users can receive a new phone number or can transfer an existing phone number to the CallVantage service.
AT&T CallVantage offers an unlimited local plan for $19.95 per month and an unlimited local and long-distance package starting at $29.95 per month. Additional lines cost extra. Once signed up with CallVantage, subscribers or solution providers visit a CallVantage Web site to activate the router's phone ports. The new phone line becomes active as soon as the subscriber or solution provider enters the required information. CallVantage sound quality is as good as any other telephone service. A host of convenience features are offered, including do not disturb, locate me, call logging, record and send, conference calling and more.
One drawback to this and other VoIP solutions is that emergency 911 calls may be routed to a different dispatcher than that used for traditional 911 calls. This dispatcher will be located at a Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) center designated for wireless services associated with the service address provided to AT&T. For 911 emergency dialing to work properly, a business' service address must match the physical location of the phone. Another drawback is that the
CallVantage service doesn't work during a power outage.
Linksys' single-level channel program offers registered resellers additional discounts on select Linksys small-business class products. The company also offers special reseller-only promotions, demo program pricing, marketing tools and select products from Linksys' line of small-business wired and wireless products. Monthly training on Linksys products is done live via the Web. Technical support is available 24x7 through a dedicated technical support line for Linksys registered resellers.
Subsea cable alternatives can provide a level of comfort for those concerned about disruptions. Realistically, they will continue to play a small, but critical role in the short term.
Maintaining existing network infrastructures often incurs huge technical debt before newer technologies are adopted over time.
Amid ongoing regional uncertainties, telecom infrastructure in the Middle East has expand to include terrestrial low-latency network infrastructure, which offers resilience and agility in navigating political complexities without relying solely on undersea networks.
