New Linksys Print Server Lets Users Print From Anywhere
Solution providers can use the Linksys Wireless-G PrintServer as an integral part of business center solutions, Internet cafs and corporate lobbies, as it allows the solution provider to connect a USB printer directly to a network without having to install any special cabling. The PrintServer also eliminates the need to have a dedicated PC set up as a print server, and consequently, the need to leave the dedicated PC continuously powered-up. (The power savings alone will pay for the $89 PrintServer in no time.) The unit is compatible with all standard SNMP management tools and built-in Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) permits printing from anywhere on the Internet. For security purposes, data can be protected by 128-bit WEP encryption or pre-shared key Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA).
Both wired and wireless PCs can access the PrintServer Even if a network is completely wired, 802.11g users, 802.11b users and visitors can still access the printer in ad-hoc mode. Wireless networking is typically done in infrastructure mode, whereby a wireless network is bridged to a wired network using a wireless access point or router. In ad-hoc mode, wireless devices can communicate directly with one another in peer-to-peer fashion without the use of an access point.
The PrintServer can be connected to a network using a 10/100 Ethernet cable, or it can connect wirelessly over 802.11g. The PrintServer is compatible with Windows 98SE, ME, 2000 and XP. The printer being used must have a USB 1.1 or 2.0 port; multifunction printers cannot be used, nor will the PrintServer work with a USB hub that's connected to more than one USB printer. A Setup Wizard detects the PrintServer and lists it under its default name along with its IP address. DHCP networks will automatically assign an IP address. If your network uses a static IP address, the solution provider must enter a valid IP address, subnet mask and gateway.
Linksys' Partner Connection Program consists of a single level. VARs must provide a face-to-face selling model, provide pre- and post-sales support, provide networking design, configuration and troubleshooting for their customers, and obtain a significant portion of their overall revenue from sales of complementary products and services. Benefits include discounts on select Linksys products, reseller-only promotions, demo pricing, technical support and training, marketing tools and more. Margins average between 15 percent and 20 percent.
