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Award-Winning Sputnik Wi-Fi Network Management Software Now Available As SputnikNet Hosted Service

Posted on: Tuesday, 21 September 2004, 06:00 CDT

Sputnik, a leading provider of managed Wi-Fi software and hardware, today introduced SputnikNet(TM), a hosted service that lets businesses and Wi-Fi providers manage wireless networks over the Internet, without installing server software.

SputnikNet delivers the functionality of the award-winning Sputnik Control Center(TM) software over the Internet, starting at $19.95 per month. With SputnikNet, businesses and Wi-Fi providers can build managed wireless networks simply by plugging access points (APs) into broadband. No software purchase is required, and no server hardware needs to be purchased and maintained.

"It's like salesforce.com for your Wi-Fi network," said David LaDuke, Sputnik CEO. "You get all the benefits of a full-featured management system, without any upfront investment in server hardware, and without the overhead of running software."

SputnikNet lowers the technical requirements to manage one or several wireless access points. According to LaDuke, SputnikNet is an ideal solution for businesses without technical staff who want to offer Wi-Fi service to their customers, as well as an easy-to-use addition for Wi-Fi providers managing multiple networks.

No Wires, No Server, No Problem

Using SputnikNet, businesses can attract and retain customers by offering free Wi-Fi or charging for it. Each wireless hotspot can have its own branding, access rights and pricing. SputnikNet includes Pre-Paid and RADIUS Modules, enabling hotspots to limit access based on pre-paid cards or use their preferred billing system.

"SputnikNet lets me focus on running my business, not on running a server," said Carlos Rice, CEO of Alana Blue, a Wi-Fi provider based in Hollywood, California. "It doesn't get much easier than this."

SputnikNet lets network administrators track usage by user and location, and capture "opt-in" marketing information about their wireless customers. Administrators can block usage of specific protocols, such as peer-to-peer file swapping, and secure internal networks, making them available only to employees. In addition to monitoring real-time network status, administrators use the secure SputnikNet Web interface to configure APs remotely, create custom captive portal pages, set network policies and generate reports.

SputnikNet "future-proofs" wireless networks though simplified updates. SputnikNet provides tools that automate upgrading a Sputnik network by reflashing APs over the Internet and migrating user account data. A large network can be upgraded in minutes, with no costly field service visits.

Price and Delivery

SputnikNet is available now. A SputnikNet Account costs $49.95 to activate and can manage any number of Sputnik-powered APs, which start at $99 for the AP 160. SputnikNet subscription fees are $19.95 per month or $199 per year, per AP. Volume pricing is available for Wi-Fi providers. All Sputnik access points come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

About Sputnik (www.sputnik.com)

Sputnik Inc. provides the leading software platform for wireless networks and applications designed for businesses, service providers and institutions. Remote network and subscriber management allows cost-effective operation of multiple indoor and outdoor wireless venues. Sputnik launched its commercial products in November 2003 and has gained over 300 customers, many of whom are engaging in major deployments. The privately funded company is based in San Francisco.

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