WatchGuard recently released the AP420, a high-density indoor 802.11ac Wave 2 access point with a unique twist: it contains a dedicated 3rd radio for continuous WIPS (Wireless Intrusion Prevention System) security protection and RF scanning. Where other enterprise-grade 4×4 Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO) access points focus only on serving up speedy Wi-Fi to users, the AP420 does this and blocks hackers and Wi-Fi enthusiasts from stealing passwords, credit cards, and other data with man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks to keep them moving down the road. Wi-Fi served by a WatchGuard AP420 will be protected by patented WIPS techniques covering both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Those looking to sniff traffic and steal credentials will be prevented at layer 2 and 3 from executing common attack techniques, such as karma attacks recently made famous in HBO’s Silicon Valley series. To learn more about WatchGuard’s patented WIPS technology, check out our three-part Secure Wi-Fi video series.
The AP420’s MU-MIMO features mean it’s perfectly suited for the highest client density deployments. This access point easily serves crowded rooms full of smartphones, laptops and tablets to give users an excellent mobile connectivity experience. Common deployment scenarios include tradeshow floors, auditoriums, large conference rooms, and shopping malls.
The AP420 can be managed with either a Firebox®, via the Gateway Wireless Controller, or with WatchGuard’s Wi-Fi Cloud. With the Wi-Fi Cloud, you get an expanded set of features including:
- WIPS powered with patented technology for hack-free hotspots
- Engaging guest Wi-Fi experiences
- Powerful location-based analytics
- Ability to scale from 1 to unlimited access points with no infrastructure
The latest version of the Wi-Fi Cloud (Manage 8.3) includes new Wi-Fi performance features that improve the quality of experience for users connected to WatchGuard’s access points, new application visibility and firewall policy control, plus an integration with Google for Education to ensure that only devices registered in the school’s Google domain can connect to the school Wi-Fi network and enforce network access policies. This unique integration brings even more control, usability and ease of use to school districts.
To learn more, visit https://www.watchguard.com/wifi