Corporate internet service provider DataPro, a member of the Alt-X listed DataPro Group, has announced it will offer the WiPod failsafe access device to its clients throughout South Africa.
The WiPod, designed and assembled locally by Durban-based Strattice and manufactured in Taiwan, is a compact plug-and-play router, switch and server that delivers seamless connectivity by switching automatically between alternative networks. It can be used with fixed-line ADSL or Diginet connections, as well as a range of wireless options including 3G, EDGE and iBurst.
"Whenever one network fails for whatever reason, the WiPod automatically switches all traffic to another network without any interruption," says DataPro MD, Gary Sweidan.
"Users probably won't even notice when it happens. For any business that can't afford any kind of network downtime, the WiPod is a superbly easy-to-use and cost effective option."
Sweidan says the WiPod is also well suited to businesses in the many areas of SA that still lack ADSL service. "It makes connecting remote branches, for example, very simple; just plug in a WiPod and it will automatically connect the branch to the rest of the company network using whatever technology is available. About 95% of SA's populated areas are covered by wireless HSDPA and EDGE networks, even where there is no ADSL service. People don't need to be dependent on Telkom."
In addition to ADSL, Diginet, HSDPA and iBurst connectivity with transparent failover, the WiPod also incorporates a firewall, Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, a proxy server, e-mail and Web server, file sharing support and a centralised management console with secure access control.
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