Linksys Announces Wi-Fi Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster




WTR54GS Makes It Easy to Create a More Secure Wireless Network from Hotel Rooms or Coffee Houses

IRVINE, Calif. -/July 26, 2005 - Wi-Fi Technology News/- Linksys?, a Division of Cisco Systems, Inc., the recognized leading provider of VoIP, wireless and networking hardware for the consumer, Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) and small business markets, announced its newest router, the Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster (WTR54GS). This new high-speed, mobile router provides users the ability to easily set up a wireless network in a hotel room or through a hotspot, such as in an airport or coffee house.

The travel-friendly form factor includes a built-in power supply and wireless signal antenna as well as a WAN port for connection to a Cable or DSL connection and an Ethernet port for connecting an additional wired device or computer. Users simply plug the router directly into the wall with the built-in retractable two-prong power adapter, and establish either a wired or wireless connection to the Internet access offered by the hotel or other venue.

A unique feature, currently found only in the Linksys WTR54GS, allows multiple computers to share a single wireless Internet access account. This capability is ideal for those users with a subscription to a wireless internet service who would like to simultaneously share their account access with colleagues or friends at locations such as hotels, airports or coffeehouses.

Wireless notebook adapters equipped with the new SecureEasySetup (SES) technology, like the Linksys WPC54G Wireless-G PC Card, can easily connect to a WTR54GS-established network with the push of a button. SES is a push-button solution for Wi-Fi setup that helps simplify the configuration and setup of WPA security, allowing even first-time users to setup and activate security features on a wireless network with the push of a button. Whereas a typical installation requires a user to manually configure several settings on each wireless device, SES simply requires that a user push a button on the router, and a corresponding button on the PC or other client device. This automates the connection process and activates Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), a security standard aimed at protecting home and small business wireless networks from unauthorized use.

The DHCP server capability, SPI firewall and support for VPN pass-through available with the WTR54GS bring additional assurance to travelers conducting particularly sensitive business. Even PCs without wireless capabilities can join the network by simply plugging into the included Ethernet port.

?Business trips can be stressful enough without having to sit at a desk for access to a broadband connection,? Frank Lin, product manager, Linksys said, ?The WTR54GS from Linksys allows travelers to work wherever they are most comfortable, while knowing that Linksys' security features can be applied to their transmissions.?

The Wireless-G Travel Router with SpeedBooster provides users with a number of features and benefits:

- Backward compatible with 802.11g and 802.11b (2.4GHz) standards

- Higher security with Wi-Fi Protected Access? (WPA/WPA2 Personal)

- SpeedBooster technology increases wireless performance by up to 35% over standard wireless-g (802.11g)

- Supports universal bridging for sharing a single high-speed wireless internet connection found at locations such as hotels, airports or coffee shops.

- Compact travel size router with carrying case, built-in antenna and power adapter

- Supports SecureEasySetup


Pricing and Availability
The WTR54GS is available immediately for purchase through Linksys resellers including e-commerce, retail, direct response, and VAR partners at an estimated street price of $99.99.

About Linksys
Founded in 1988, Linksys, a division of Cisco Systems, Inc., (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the recognized global leader in Wireless, VoIP and Ethernet networking for consumer, SOHO and small business users. Linksys is dedicated to making networking easy and affordable for its customers, offering innovative, award-winning products that seamlessly integrate with a variety of devices and applications. Linksys provides award-winning product support to its customers. For more information, visit http://www.linksys.com.