3Com OfficeConnect Cable/DSL Gateway

The latest addition to the 3Com OfficeConnect range of small-business networking products is a Cable/DSL gateway.

This slimline unit can share a broadband cable or DSL connection with users on a local network. Firewall protection is an added bonus.

There's no cable or DSL interface built into the broadband gateway. Instead, a separate cable or DSL modem is required, to which the gateway connects using the supplied 10Mbit/s Ethernet connection cable.

An integrated Ethernet switch then allows the gateway to communicate via existing local area network infrastructure or, on a small network, direct to up to four desktop PCs.

A Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server is built into the gateway to assign local IP addresses if required. There's also support for port and network address translation.

Additionally, the 3Com Gateway offers security through an integrated firewall, enabling small businesses to block hack attacks. Specifically, the gateway can protect against denial of service attacks, where the network is flooded with traffic, and other common scenarios.

In addition, the gateway enables secure encrypted traffic of a Point to Point Tunneling Protocol or IPSec virtual private network to pass through unblocked for remote office and remote access applications.

A device discovery wizard makes for easy installation, while a choice of predefined configurations means that the gateway can be up and running in a matter of minutes.

Ongoing management is via an intuitive and clearly set out browser-based interface, with help boxes to provide instant explanations for each option.

With network address translation turned on, outside access is effectively blocked, but there's a virtual server capability to allow internal web, email and other servers to be accessed via the wide area network port.

Support for File Transfer Protocol and Microsoft NetMeeting is also built in, with a pull-down menu allowing traffic for applications to be passed by the gateway. Remote management is also supported and users can specify an individual IP address to allow management across the internet.

Status and diagnostics LEDs at the front help troubleshoot any problems and there's a comprehensive downloadable log file. As with other 3Com products, a lifetime limited warranty is provided with online firmware upgrades also available.

Price: £108 (ex. VAT)

Specifications:

Wan ports: 1 x 10Mbit/s Ethernet
Lan ports: 4 x 10/100Mbit/s Ethernet, auto MDI/X detection
Power supply: External adapter

Contact: 3Com 01442 438000
www.3com.co.uk

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