Feature
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Benefit
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Multiple Network Gateway Interconnects (NGIs) with other network domains yields an aggregate "bandwidth boost" effect for the HotPort mesh network
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The ability to internetwork with other domains at multiple points enhances the performance, reliability and scalability of a HotPort mesh network. In a well-designed mesh, the result of multiple concurrent traffic flows can be an overall throughput that readily exceeds the basic full duplex RF data rate of 25 Mbps.
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The HotPort system provides three service levels to prioritize traffic traversing the mesh
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Traffic prioritization ensures that traffic requiring high throughput, low jitter or low latency is given precedence, which helps improve the overall performance, scalability and versatility of the mesh.
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Every HotPort node features a built-in dual port 10/100 Mbps Ethernet switch that can eliminate the need for a separate hub or switch
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The presence of multiple switched ports on each node, which can connect access points, high-speed video cameras, VoIP telephones, computers, printers, network servers and other Ethernet devices, helps make the HotPort system more affordable and versatile.
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The HotPort Mesh network has a scalable architecture, allowing expansion of the network from just a few to dozens of nodes
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Adding more nodes (and, therefore, more mesh paths) enhances the resiliency and performance of the mesh. Self-configuration makes adding nodes as simple as powering up additional HotPort units within radio range of the mesh.
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The HotPort system gives network administrators a choice of RF spectrums - 2.4 GHz DSSS/OFDM or 5 GHz OFDM - both with 54 Mbps half-duplex throughput
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This powerful capability helps enhance performance, versatility and interoperability by giving network administrators a choice between less interference (in "radio rich" environments with extensive use of wireless LANs) and better range/penetration (in outdoor or "obstacle rich" environments with line-of-sight limitations).
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The RF transmit power of every HotPort node can be set to an optimal level
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"Tuning" the topology by optimizing the arrangement of neighboring nodes allows the mesh to deliver peak performance without sacrificing mesh-wide resiliency or scalability.
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The HotPort mesh operates securely and seamlessly across indoor/outdoor boundaries
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By seamlessly serving both buildings (in their entirety) and outdoor venues (in a campus environment), the mesh network becomes more versatile, scalable and affordable than other alternatives.
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All traffic is encrypted with a choice of hardware-assisted 128/256-bit AES or 40/104-bit WEP protection
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This capability ensures privacy without compromising performance. And because the mesh functions as a virtual Ethernet switch, any "external" security provisions, such as VPNs, are fully preserved.
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A MAC Access Control List adds another layer of security to the mesh
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The traffic filtering provisions work whether the host system is connected directly to the HotPort node via one of the Ethernet ports, or indirectly via an attached wireless access point.
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HotPort supports two types of Virtual LANs: port-based and trunked (with IEEE 802.1q standard tagging)
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Traffic segmentation affords greater privacy, and can enhance mesh performance and scalability by allowing traffic to be directed along specific VLAN routes.
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The entire HotPort wireless mesh network functions as a virtual Ethernet switch
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Operation at Layer 2 maintains full compatibility with all higher-layer protocols, which preserves the integrity of any application and eliminates the need for any special software or setup.
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The Firetide Mesh Routing Protocol (FMRP) is fully self-configuring and self-healing
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This purpose-built protocol greatly simplifies network deployment, and makes the HotPort mesh network more reliable, scaleable, extensible and manageable.
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All HotPort nodes are appropriately ruggedized (plenum-rated indoors and weatherized outdoors)
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HotPort environmental features, which include a wide operating temperature range, along with solar protection and flexible mounting options, make the mesh network more versatile and reliable.
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HotPort outdoor units support 802.3af-compliant Power over Ethernet (PoE)
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Additional power options include an AC adapter, and a solar powered panel with a long-life battery - all of which help make outdoor deployments both versatile and affordable.
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The HotViewTM Mesh Management Software gives network managers full control over both the entire mesh network and all individual nodes
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The intuitive graphical user interface gives point-and-click control over security provisions, VLAN assignments, per-port traffic prioritization settings, transmit power levels, NGIs and more. HotView also offers customizable mesh maps, practical diagnostic/test tools, fault and performance statistics reporting, an inventory management system, and the ability to upgrade mesh node software. The many powerful capabilities help make the HotPort system more manageable, affordable, reliable and scalable.
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