Colubris MultiService Controllers

Key Features

Creates easy-to-use public/guest Internet access (hotspot) services

"Zero configuration" service interface adapts to client device configuration settings

Bandwidth management creates multiple service tiers and ensures fair access to bandwidth for users

Secure user authentication, authorization and accounting enables wide range of free or fee-based service models

Complete IP routing and networking services enables direct connection to the Internet

Interfaces for centralized AAA, captive portal and billing functions enables large multi-location networks

Models ranging from "hotspot in a box" to high capacity controllers enable a single architecture to deploy in any size venue

Upgradeable to new Colubris multiservice software modules

"Controls client devices that are connected via WLAN access points or an Ethernet network"

InMotion MultiService Controllers (MSC) act as traffic cops in the CIMS, controlling the operation of InReach MAPs distributed throughout a wireless zone, building, or campus. They implement Colubris' Guest/Public Internet Access service and provide an upgrade path to additional Colubris software-based service modules.

Organizations can use the Guest/Public Internet Access service to provide convenient Internet access to their guests and visitors - without compromising the security and performance of other WLAN services. It controls client devices that are connected via WLAN access points or directly to an Ethernet network, enabling service providers and enterprises to authenticate users and control session operation.

The service features the Colubris "Zero Configuration" service interface, which automatically adapts to any client device's network settings, ensuring the best possible user experience. Advanced IP networking features, including Adaptive NAT™, SMTP redirect, and DHCP services, provide seamless support for VPN tunneling and other applications demanded by business travelers and consumers. Per-user bandwidth controls enforce fair sharing of limited network bandwidth among users.

In Public Access networks, this service module enables service providers to implement a variety of hotspot business models and back-end authentication and billing systems. Operators have the flexibility to authenticate users locally, or by referencing a centralized remote AAA server. Session activity records include elapsed time and bulk data transfers. Users can be redirected to separate portal, AAA and DHCP server destinations based on the user's location or associated SSID, enabling a range of service customization or wholesale service models.

Enterprises can use the service module to provide Internet access without compromising the security and performance of other enterprise WLAN applications. All traffic can be mapped to a specific VLAN, limiting access to specific network resources, such as an Internet router. At the same time QoS policies can eliminate competition for limited WLAN bandwidth between the guest and internal services sharing the network.

Guest/Public Internet Access Service supports user authentication with a range of mechanisms, including user name/password and single-use authorization codes. The service can be set up to prompt users to read and accept a "terms of use agreement" before it grants them access to the network. Organizations can also redirect user traffic to a central web server and walled garden to provide users with access to special content, from employment application forms, phone directories, and product catalogs in enterprise applications to promotions and advertisements in hotspot services.

A rich feature set allows service providers to create a centrally managed hotspot network. Standards-based RADIUS interfaces provide access to a remote authentication, authorization and accounting system. Alternatively, operators can outsource these functions using the service's integrated support for leading third-party hotspot billing services. The service also integrates seamlessly into a facilities-based network, enabling RBOCs and PTTs to add hotspot services to their suite of broadband service offerings.

Because the Guest/Public Access Service Module is certified to be interoperable with popular smart clients from iPass, Gric and Boingo, service providers can authenticate roaming users and take advantage of revenue-sharing opportunities.

Colubris offers a choice of InMotion MSC models to fit any environment, from a small office to a large campus.

InMotion MSC-5200 is a 1U rack-mount system designed to integrate into an existing Ethernet backbone infrastructure. The MSC-5200 provides service for up to 500 simultaneous Guest/Public Internet Access users.

The InMotion MSC-3200, MSC-3200R, and MSC-3300 are multiservice controllers and access points combined in a single, easy-to-deploy enclosure ideal for small offices, retail locations, and Internet hotspots. They are an ideal "hotspot in a box" for service providers. The MSC-3200 and MSC-3200R provide the flexibility of plenum-rated indoor and outdoor enclosures with a single software configurable 802.11 a/b/g radio. The MSC-3300 offers dual radios in a plenum-rated indoor enclosure for increased RF flexibility. Customers can expand RF coverage easily in larger venues by daisy-chaining InReach MAP-320 or MAP-330 access points using the convenient downstream Ethernet port.