Actiontec Wireless Cable/DSL Routers Combine Speed and Functionality of Ethernet and 802.11b Networks; Includes Built-in Wireless Networking for Easy Home Networking

Business Wire, Jan 8, 2002

Business Editors, High Tech Writers

CES 2002

Booth No. 16851

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 8, 2002

CES Booth No. 16851--Actiontec Electronics, Inc., a leading manufacturer of broadband-based application and Internet access products, today announced two new Wireless Cable/DSL Routers.

These products allow family members and home office workers to share high-speed Internet access, files, printers, and multiplayer games from anywhere in the house or yard without any cables.

The new Routers, offering either four-port or single port Ethernet and USB connectivity, provide a flexible, upgradeable networking system that allows desktop and notebook computers to communicate on a wired or wireless network. They also provide basic firewall protection for network security and advanced Internet security through features such as website blocking, web-service blocking and Internet activity monitoring.

Because they are designed to work with Ethernet, USB and WiFi (802.11b) - based wireless networks, they bridge the gap between wireless and wired networks providing a seamless extension to the older Ethernet system. This means that home and office users can create fast, flexible networks without the need to install additional wires or cabling.

And, with the Actiontec Wireless Cable/DSL Routers, it has never been easier to build a home network. The products' web-based setup makes it easy to install, using an installation wizard to configure your system for instantaneous Internet access and maximum performance.

The Routers also provide an open PC card slot so you can upgrade or expand its capabilities, ensuring that they can grow as your network needs change. Print Server and VoIP cards will be available to extend functionality.

The built-in firewall hides local PCs from Internet detection, keeping your network safe from outside interference. The Routers each show themselves as the only externally-visible Internet device on your network, further protecting your system. In addition, they allow controlled access to Internet content and can be adjusted to block specific Internet services while utilizing powerful filters to audit and report all web-browsing activities.

Other features of the Wireless Cable/DSL Routers include:

-- Integrated antennas that provide wireless connectivity at up to 300 feet
indoors and up to 1500 feet outdoors.

-- A built-in USB port, enabling it to connect to one computer for easy
plug-and-play.

-- Up to 35 computers can access the Internet simultaneously.

-- Advanced 64 and 128-bit wireless security encryption.

-- A built-in high-speed 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port or 4-port 10/100 Ethernet
switch.

-- Support for Virtual Private Network (VPN) clients, allowing remote users to
access their VPN-based corporate networks securely.

-- A Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) client/server and a DNS client
to automate managing network addresses in LAN and simplify Internet access.

-- A built-in web-based interface for basic and advanced configurations.

The Actiontec Wireless Cable/DSL Routers are scheduled to ship in January. The 4 Port Wireless Cable/DSL Router will carry an MSRP of $199.99, the 1 Port Wireless Cable/DSL Router will carry an MSRP of $179.99. Each package will include a Router, AC power adapter, an Ethernet cable for connecting the Router to the cable or DSL modem, a USB cable to connect one computer directly to the router, and a user guide. The Routers will be compatible with Windows 98, Windows 98SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, and Windows XP for the PC or System 7.1 or higher for a Macintosh.

About Actiontec

Actiontec Electronics, Inc. is a leading supplier of analog and broadband devices designed to facilitate or leverage Internet access. The company's complete line of DSL, router, wireless LAN, Internet telephony, and analog products includes the industry's first call waiting modems, home DSL modems and wireless home gateways. Actiontec products have been recognized with a Best of Show award at Retail Xchange, Editors Choice awards from CNET's computers.com and homePCnetwork.com, and Top 100 Products of the Year from Computer Shopper. Actiontec products are available through national distribution, retail outlets, and Actiontec's online store as well as through private label and Tier 1 OEM relationships. The company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA, and maintains branch offices in Arlington, VA; Austin, TX; Colorado Springs, CO; Irvine, CA; Reading, United Kingdom; China and Taiwan. For more information, phone 408-752-7700, fax 408-541-9003, or visit http://www.actiontec.com.

Actiontec and the Actiontec logo are trademarks of Actiontec Electronics, Inc. All other product names and trademarks are the property of their respective holders.