Cisco Brings Out New Version of Unified Wireless Software

Cisco Systems, Inc. updates its Cisco Unified Wireless Network (CUWN) software to its new version 7.4. The latest version of CUWN software is now integrated with a number of other Cisco wireless infrastructure products, including the 5500 Series wireless controller.

Over 40 features were incorporated in the 7.4 version, and they are touted to focus mainly on improving the quality of the wireless infrastructure, enhancing security and spectrum intelligence, making minor adjustments to the deployment performance and delivery of IT service through mobile applications, and offering control and visibility into Wi-Fi-enabled networks.

This recent CUWN software release offers application visibility and control (AVC) for both wired and wireless networks, Cisco Aironet 1600 Series Access Points, Bonjour Services Directory for Apple services across layer 3 network levels, mobile connectivity expansion via mobility services engine (MSE) and ThinkSmart, and the Wireless Security and Spectrum Intelligence (WSSI) module for the Cisco Aironet 3600 Series Access Point.

The AVC capability is said to give location analytics in real time, network metrics that can be analyzed to find context-aware networks, and enhanced performance of the 802.11n standard in delivering deployment and operational services to mobile users. Through a packet inspection, version 7.4 also allows for a heightened level of visibility into a variety of Web applications, such as YouTube, Netflix, and Cisco Jabber.

Acquired by Cisco in September 2012, ThinkSmart provides the capability to deliver "real-time location analytics alongside historical trends such as network utilization, peak usage, and the number and types of devices" through Cisco MSE.

The WSSI module for the Aironet 3600 series access points can intercept RF interferences and possible threats by way of continuous spectrum-monitoring analysis. Cisco claims that the WSSI module can deliver up to 30 percent reduction in capital expenditure compared to the spending associated with routinely monitoring access points.

Meanwhile, the Cisco Aironet 1600 Series Access Points are touted to serve as a secure and affordable way for enterprises to deal with the BYOD explosion. The access points allow mid-market and K-12 organizations to create a platform necessary to accommodate the transition to a BYOD network.

Cisco is not alone in expanding into advanced wireless capabilities for unified wireless offerings. ADTRAN recently announced the expansion of its cloud access points to the Bluesocket 1900 series. Other vendors like Aerohive, Aruba Networks, Enterasys, and Meraki were also actively involved in supplying enterprise-grade wireless network capabilities addressing both security demands and support for BYOD and MDM solutions. (KOM) Link. Link. Link.