3Com added two new home gateway products to its existing line of home networking products. The Home Wireless Gateway and the Home Ethernet Gateway both enable Internet access and resource sharing (including printers) for devices throughout the home.
Based on the IEEE 802.11b standard, the Home Wireless Gateway facilitates data transmission rates of up to 11 Mbps within a 300-foot range. The Gateway supports ISDN, cable and DSL connections. Equipped with a 3-port, 10/100 switch for higher data activities, there is no need for an additional hub. The Gateway supports VPN, or Virtual Private Networking, allowing remote access to the network. The Home Wireless Gateway is designed to automatically recognize compatible wired or wireless devices. Data is encrypted during transmission and there is a built-in firewall.
3Coms Home Ethernet Gateway provides a secure, shared Internet connection at typical office networking speeds, according to the company. Ethernet cables plug into the devices 4 ports, connecting PCs, Internet Appliances, a parallel port printer, and a broadband or analog modem. Users can share Internet access, files, and peripherals. The Home Ethernet Gateway has a built-in firewall.
3Coms Home Wireless Gateway is available at the companys site and from numerous e-tailers and catalogs. It has an estimated street price of $349. The Home Ethernet Gateway is also available at the companys site for $159.