Self-Service Networking a Snap

Posted: 1/2004

Self-Service Networking a Snap
By Khali Henderson

ISPs, wireless ISPs and their channel
partners targeting residential, SOHO and small business accounts with Internet
connectivity are challenged by the increasingly service-intensive requirements
of these low-margin clients as they move to more sophisticated networking.

One company, Leus Networks, aims to change that by making
networking literally a snap for self-service users, and curbing escalating
support costs for ISPs. In a joint venture with Compex Systems Pte Ltd., Leus
introduced a stackable ADSL modem/gateway in fall 2003, the Leus ConnectStack
6000, to be distributed by ISPs seeking a low-cost way to provide out-of-the-box
networking to their end-user customers.

ConnectStacks secret is the StackBus technology, which
enables the addition of users including wireless users by snapping on
additional modules.

ConnectStacks base module includes an ADSL modem connected
via USB. It draws power from the USB, eliminating the need for an external power
supply. No additional software is necessary, once the driver is installed on the
users computer. The user need not understand routing or networking to add
users. They can add the ConnectStack Gateway module and other optional modules
as required.

Unlike traditional broadband Internet gateways or routers, the
ConnectStack Gateway module enables sharing without having to recable or
reconfigure the first user. The ConnectStack Gateway module easily snaps on top
of the base modem, connecting the power supply and the second computer via
Ethernet. The experience of additional users mirrors that of the first
user.

ConnectStack enables shared login allowing users to utilize
one public IP address through a Network Address Translation. This is acceptable
for most Internet applications. However, when used with a router, some
applications such as corporate VPNs, multiplayer games and certain
video-conferencing applications do not function without complex reconfiguration.

In contrast, ConnectStack does not require complex settings to
access these applications. Instead, it supports multiple individual logins on a
single ADSL line. Each user with an individual login has a routable public IP
address required for access to certain applications. Leus Networks spokesperson
Stephanie Ngan says the ability to offer additional login accounts presents ISPs
with another revenue opportunity from a single DSL line.

In addition, a wireless module allows the connection of
additional computers wirelessly using the 802.11b, or Wi-Fi, standard. While
supporting the de facto WEP security protection, ConnectStack also offers a
second method of preventing access to the wireless network by requiring users to
login through a browser interface.

ConnectStack uses a browser interface for all operations,
eliminating the users need to install Microsoft Windows-based clients or
additional software. All logins are performed the same whether the user is on a
USB modem, wireless or Ethernet connection.

Leus Networks seeks to partner with ISPs to offer the Leus
ConnectStack 6000 as a complete SOHO networking package. Successive expansion
modules will be available in selected retail outlets. Ngan says the base modem
wholesales for about $50 while the gateway, switch (for three or more users) and
wireless modules wholesale for $25 to $40 each.