Wireless LAN Systems: What a Difference a Year Makes

Current wireless local area network (WLAN) system offerings go a long way toward addressing the planning, verification, deployment, and management requirements of network managers. However, many of the features cannot scale to handle thousands of users in a single switch, resulting in duplication of more complex functions that the WLAN systems purport to eliminate. A balanced approach that includes the ability to route traffic as needed, distribute control of the radio frequency environment, and centralize policy management will emerge as the winner. Burton Group (www.burtongroup.com) provides technically in-depth research and advisory services for colleges and universities, government agencies, and commercial enterprises. Burton Group's practical and unbiased research and advice helps technologists make smart IT infrastructure decisions in increasingly complex environments. Burton Group covers directories, identity management, application platforms, architecture, and network and telecom infrastructure topics. Like ECAR, Burton Group is an unbiased advocate for the user and more than 80% of Burton Group's clients are user organizations rather than suppliers. EDUCAUSE member institutions can become users of Burton Group research services through EDUCAUSE pricing. Burton Group is an ECAR partner and can be contacted by email at slesueur@burtongroup.com or by telephone (801-373-5767).