SDSL Router

Enables ISPs to provision Internet access without complicated installations. Key features include interoperability with major DSL equipment, and firewall, DHCP, and Network Address Translation (NAT).

By Wayne Kawamoto

Xpeed Networks recently announced the latest in its family of SDSL access devices: the 320R, the company's easy-to-install, high performance, low-cost router. According to Xpeed, the router's technology enables ISPs and CLECs to quickly deploy sophisticated DSL services to their customers.

The company says that the 320R, which offers transfer rates from 144Kbps to 2.3Mbps, is ideal for server applications that include web hosting and e-mail serving. Also, the device uses browser technology to create a familiar graphical user interface (GUI), and was designed to let non-technical users quickly and easily configure the router. Overall, Xpeed claims that the 320R's simplified installation and configuration will minimize installation time and lower support costs.

The 320R comes with high-end features that include a firewall, DHCP, and Network Address Translation (NAT), which Xpeed says can be configured in a few easy steps.

The company says that interoperability is a key factor in the device's ease of installation, and Xpeed's heavy R&D investments have resulted in the new 320R being interoperable with leading DSL equipment vendors.

"A big part of succeeding with CLECs and ISPs is to bring them products that are as compatible as possible with the wide range of DSLAM equipment they encounter in the real world," said Mike Lowe, Senior Industry Analyst at Cahners In-Stat Group. "They have made the necessary investments in labs and equipment to make [interoperability] a reality."

"The increased performance and improved security of DSL routers are becoming more desirable to a growing number of sophisticated small and medium businesses," said Chris Aronis, consultant at Network Strategy Partners. "As this market segment becomes a higher percentage of the CLEC and ISP customer base, these service providers must maintain a rapid rate of deployment to keep pace with demand and protect market share. Xpeed's new X320R provides CLECs and ISPs with a key tool to accomplish this."

"CLECs and ISPs are demanding affordable, easy-to-use, products that will allow them to increase their customer base through a faster rate of deployment," said Richard D'sa, Xpeed's vice president of Sales and Marketing.

Pricing and Availability
The 320R will have a suggested retail price of $550, and is expected to ship by the end of June, 2000.

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