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Mobile and Wireless: Page 4 of 5

Two new types of security services are available. One is remote authentication and encryption, using technologies such as 802.1X. Radiuz Networks, for example, offers this for free; Wireless Security runs a subscription-based service. Neither requires extensive in-house architecture. The second is wireless security monitoring, offered by the likes of Full Mesh Networks (fullmesh.net). Using Red-M's technology for wireless security and/or intrusion detection, Full Mesh offers its service for less than a penny per square foot per month, with no start-up charges.

Why outsource?

Unless you've already got the wireless chops, designing and monitoring a wireless network will be challenging. If your installation is intimidatingly large, or if you're looking at a dense deployment, it might behoove you to hire a consultant to assist you, at least in the site-planning phase. Then again, mastering the learning curve may prove more cost-effective than delegating the planning, design and implementation to an expert. To the extent that outsourcing is necessary, determine your needs ahead of time, then verify that the prospective provider is up to the task.

QUESTIONS TO ASK PROVIDERS:

• Which wireless standards (802.11a/b/g) do you install, monitor or manage?