ProCurve gives resellers the Edge

HP's networking division adds wireless security to product range

Hewlett-Packard’s (HP’s) ProCurve networking division has added a wireless security offering to one of its product ranges.

The ProCurve 5300xl Wireless Edge Services Module is designed as an add-on to the vendor’s 5300 range of networking products. The vendor has claimed that the release allows more efficient administration and tighter security for wireless networks.

Jon Weatherall, HP ProCurve country manager for the UK and Ireland, told CRN: “The 5300 range is one of our top-three selling product sets. The new release goes into the 5300 range and offers secure, reliable wireless access, with the same control and security as a wired connection.

“For resellers, this is an add-on for wireless networks. Any VAR working with the 5300 series can up-sell this release.”

Weatherall added that the release also signals a huge channel opportunity for resellers to add value by including services for customers.

“This is an easy sell for the channel,” he said. “There is also a services opportunity in helping customers to set up.”

Rachel Power, analyst at Canalys, said: “There are still some wireless security concerns from end-users, but you don’t find many unsecured wireless networks any more. Most vendors have developed a secure wireless product, and they make sure they are up to standard on this side.”

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