Cisco launches Linux powered N-router with media sharing functionality

The new model complements the existing Linksys by Cisco consumer router line-up and is essentially the next generation of the popular WRT54GL.

The design of the new product is similar to other Linksys by Cisco N-routers, but has integrated connectors for external antennae. Consumers that prefer external aerials can now enjoy the new Linksys by Cisco router design because of the integrated R-SMA antenna connectors.

The integrated Storage Link functionality is designed to allow consumers to connect their USB storage device to the router to create a powerful media sharing solution that enables video, photo and music sharing through the integrated media server.

Mohammad Hoda, Director of Emerging Markets for Global Consumer Sales of Cisco Consumer Business Group, believes that the new product, which should be available shortly from authorised Linksys by Cisco retailers, resellers, and VAR partners, can be seen as the next progression in its router market.

"In the past, we have had many successful Linux powered devices with the WRT54GL and NSLU2 being great examples. The WRT160NL is the logical next step, combining Linux 802.11n technology and USB storage functionality. We see the WRT160NL as a possible successor of our WRT54GL as the market transitions to 802.11n - but with storage functionality on top of that,"

he added.

The Storage Link port on the new router lets users connect USB storage devices to it. Music, video, or data files can be made available in the network through the built-in media server. This server can stream to PCs or UPnP AV digital media adaptors and the integrated Storage Link port supports FAT16, FAT32 and NTFS file systems in both read and write mode.

Although most Linksys by Cisco routers feature internal antennae, the WRT160NL has external antennae. The two R-SMA antennae connectors are designed to allow tech savvy users to be more flexible in their antennae choice and placement. The Wireless-N Broadband Router with Storage Link is shipped with Linksys EasyLink Advisor (LELA).

LELA helps consumers to get their network up and running and helps keep their network updated and secure. The included set-up CD is compatible with both Macintosh and Windows computers.

Ecological considerations are also given a high priority with this new router. Linksys by Cisco product packaging now provides more than 40% reduction in waste materials compared to the previously offered packaging.

The size of the boxes is reduced, internal packaging has been transitioned to more recyclable material, the use of plastic bags is being eliminated where possible and all packaging and internal documents are printed on paper that is made from 80% recycled content. Vegetable and soy inks are also used for printing.

Technical Specifications:

- Linux powered
- 802.11n draft 2.0 certified
- 400Mhz processor
- 8 Megabytes Flash memory
- 32 Megabytes DDRAM
- Storage Link port (USB 2.0)
- UPnP AV media server
- Wi-Fi protected Setup pushbutton security
- 2 x R-SMA antennae connectors.

Availability

The Wireless-N Broadband Router with Storage Link (WRT160NL) is planned to be available in the UAE market by first week of July 2009 from authorized Linksys by Cisco retailers, resellers, and VAR partners.