D-Link to SME market

Vendor unveils high-speed wireless products for SMEs

Networking appliance vendor D-Link is launching a new range of high-speed wireless products targeted at SMEs.

The new AirPlus range, which is based on the 802.11b wireless standard, supports security features and high-speed data transmission. It also includes a notebook and desktop card, an access point and a personal digital assistant flash card.

The firm said that it is reacting to the demand from the market for higher performance and increased security for wireless networking products.

"We want to work with resellers to help us move the wireless LAN market forward. The resellers will provide the security and consultancy on top of the products," said Tom Pattinson, D-Link UK's general manager.

The company will use Micro Peripherals, Enta, Ingram Micro and Computer 2000 to distribute the range. It will also support resellers directly if required.

Mike Bazeley, D-Link business manager at Enta, said the market has been crying out for higher speeds. "Last year was the starting point with the launch of D-Link's wireless products, but the new faster kit opens up new markets for resellers," he said.

"These products have taken off in the education market and any resellers selling in this market will do well."

Bazeley added that Enta has already held a focus day for resellers in preparation for the AirPlus products. "We had a massive take-up because of the advantages of high-speed compatibility with older equipment and security features that the products offer," he said.

According to Pattinson, D-Link has driven prices down, but he expects the volume sales nature of the products to ensure rewards for resellers. "We can produce products at a lower cost because we have kept our cost base down," he said.