HP backs networking push with 700 series

Wireless switches, upgrades and software aimed at getting in on networking

Hewlett Packard (HP) has continued its aggressive networking push with a raft of new wireless switches, upgrades and software aimed at placing the company firmly on the networking front line.

Last week the vendor, which told vnunet.com's sister title Computer Reseller News earlier this year that it wants to overtake Cisco in the networking arena, released its ProCurve Secure Access 700 series.

John Weatherall, ProCurve country manager at HP, said the vendor was creating a "virtual lobby", a secure local area network where a firm's visitors or employees can roam around without having to re-authenticate to the network.

The 720 Access Controller and 740 Access Control Server use authenticated user lists, encryption and 802.1x security features.

HP has also launched web-based authentication software. This sits on the 5300 switch, which has also been upgraded.

Weatherall said: "Resellers will be able to deploy entire wireless infrastructures and do site surveys, consultancy and configuration to make additional margin on these products."

The ProCurve 760 is more suitable for smaller firms as it combines the function of the 720 Controller and the 740 Server, Weatherall said. The 720 and 740 can also be connected to other vendors' wireless access points.

Stephen Strelczak, NHS business manager at Var Comtec, said the 700 series was an important addition to HP's networking portfolio.

"The benefits of wireless for both the public and private sectors cannot be realised until security doubts are addressed. The 700 series is the boldest step towards resolving this situation," he said.

"For resellers, it means they can go into accounts where the firm is thinking about or has already deployed some wireless technology, and add more to it."