Aruba to compete with MPLS at half cost

NEW DELHI, INDIA: Wireless LAN provider Aruba Networks today launched its dual-radio 802.11n Access Point, AP-105 which it claims is world's first access point that has user-based identification system which makes the wireless network secure and with virtual branch networking solution of the company, it forms an alternative to existing MPLS technology at half the price of deploying MPLS.

“We can deliver speed of 300 mbps per radio. AP-105 has dual radio which means it can deliver up to 600 mbps. AP105 is world's first wireless access point that has user based identification system,” said Shalendra Singh, sales director for Aruba Networks India.

“For the first time we have provided the world with a device that brings security to wireless network. Using this AP and our virtual branch networking solution, we are providing better alternative to MPLS technology at half price of deploying MPLS.

Aruba Networks has acquired more than 130 customers in two years of time and is forming strategies to double the number of customer with focus of new enterprise and businesses that are looking for expansion.

“We have cost and flexibility advantage over existing networking solution in the market. A wireless access point replaces number of switched and hardware that consumes power and incur an average of 22 per cent annual maintenance cost,” explained Singh.

He said Aruba would propose CIOs to replace their existing wired access points to save this AMC. “Simultaneously we will approach enterprises looking for expansion and new businesses setting up their network infrastructure.”

The company also claims that recent shift in focus of Cisco towards data centers and cloud computing had been an additional advantage for it, as system integrators have started looking at Aruba as alternative to Cisco and willing to promote its product.

“The clash of business interest between system integrators and Cisco has brought SIs close to us. They are very keen to promote our product,” added Singh.

AP 105 can be integrated into DSL, MPLS and it can provide VPN connectivity with 3G. It has been priced at $ 834 for Indian market.

The company has tie-up with 50 channel partners and has plans to double its partnership by December 2010 to increase its reach across the country.