The Bandspeed AirMaestro Platform WLAN is based on a centrally managed architecture with intelligent Access Points (APs). In other words, much of the intelligence is distributed to the APs, but a software console allows for central management of many of the functions. While 2003-2006 saw vendors moving toward completely centralized models with thin APs, the move to centrally managed intelligent APs has been gaining ground in the past year as vendors prepare for the 802.11n bandwidth onslaught. For more information on 802.11n, refer to the Info-Tech Advisor research note, “Start Planning for 802.11n.” Bandspeed is well positioned to deal with the 802.11n bandwidth quandary when the specification is ratified in late 2007.

The Hardware

The Bandspeed APs have an interesting appearance. Some would say they look like a six-legged spider with their antennas and solid metal bodies. The APs are formed from heavy gauge metal, with three radios – one for 802.11a in the 5GHz spectrum, one for 802.11b/g in the 2.4 GHz spectrum, and one dual band radio for rogue AP detection – and a pair of antennas for each radio (6 in total). A picture of the hardware can be found at the Bandspeed Web site.