Cisco Unveils New Integrated Routers; Integrates WiFi Into Existing Integrated Router Line

Cisco has built integrated wireless capabilities into the core of its router line with the announcement of new wireless-enabled integrated services routers, and the addition of wireless capabilities into its entire line of integrated services routers.

The new wireless-enabled integrated services routers are targeted at small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), enterprise small offices, and teleworkers. There are two series, the Cisco 1800 series and the Cisco 800 series. Both series include embedded security features, including VPNs, firewalls, intrusion protection systems (IPS), and Network Admission Control (NAC). They also offer remote management and backup WAN links. Both series will be included in Cisco SMB-Class and Enterprise Business Ready solutions.

The 1800 series, aimed at SMBs, includes a managed 8-port switch, offering VLAN and integrated Power over Ethernet (PoE). It includes support for 802.11 a/g/b, supports concurrent services for broadband, and offers WAN high availability. List prices start at $1,295.

The 800 series, aimed at small offices and teleworkers, includes a managed 4-port switch with VLAN, and a PoE option. It supports 802.11 b/g, and has a starting list price of $649.

Cisco also announced that its entire line of Cisco integrated services routers will now support built-in or modular wireless 802.11. Cisco fixed-configuration integrated services routers are now available as wireless models, and wireless interface cards are available for the Cisco modular integrated services routers, the Cisco 1841, Cisco 2800 series and Cisco 3800 series.Cisco also introduced new services for managing data and content on its integrated services routers. New 16-, 24- and 48-port EtherSwitch modules include Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities for the Cisco 2800 and 3800 series integrated services routers. Cisco Serial and Asynchronous High-Speed WAN Interface Cards provide flexible connections to legacy protocols or for WAN aggregation.