Cisco finally enters mesh networking space

Cisco Systems will finally officially enter the wireless mesh networking arena next week with outdoor mesh products designed for the enterprise and muni-WiFi deployments. Analysts have expected the move for some time, especially following the company's acquisition of Airespace in March. A mesh network provides seamless mobility and increased reliability since each of the nodes are connected to each other. If one node fails, others can usually pick up the slack.

The technology is of particular interest to municipalities looking to spend their Homeland security dollars for better communication services between first responders. Cisco's offering supports 2.4 GHz, 4.9 GHz and 5 GHz radios, as well as 802.11b and g. The Aironet runs on AC or DC power standards, power over Ethernet or it can tap into a street lamp's power source.

For more on Cisco's long-awaited mesh networking offering:
- take a look at this article from CRN

PLUS: Cisco posts lower first-quarter profits. Article