3Com sets out its wireless strategy
Firm to launch switch-based products in coming months
3Com is to launch a raft of switch-based products in the wireless space in the coming months.
The vendor is working with wireless LAN (WLAN) firm Trapeze Networks, which will integrate its software to support wireless functionality in 3Com's wired products.
The deal will also involve OEM, co-operative development and product integration between 3Com and Trapeze. 3Com said it hopes this will speed up time to market for the products.
Angelo Lamme, international product manager security and wireless at 3Com, said the switches are vendor-independent. "We can integrate this into any vendor's Layer 2 or 3 wired networking kit," he said.
Abner Germanow, enterprise networking research manager at IDC, said WLANs need to integrate with wired networks to keep operational costs low.
"Businesses need to consider how WLAN systems fit into managing security protocols and device configuration, as well as the business burdens of managing multiple vendors," he said.
3Com claimed that with its pay-as-you-grow pricing and channel model, the products should sell well.
"Our retail channel covers the low end, with the global system integrators supplying the large enterprises, while our VARs can reach every market," Lamme said.
However, Chris Absalom, managing director of 3Com reseller Computer Network Systems, said: "3Com is being let down by product availability. When new products are released, existing products dry up quickly."
3Com said it is not aware of any specific supply problems.