New with LCOS 8.5: HTTPS requests and cabled Internet access for guests 

London, UK, Monday 16th May, 2011 - German networking specialists LANCOM release an extensive update with new functions for both guest Internet access solutions, the LANCOM Public Spot option, and its web content filters. The new features come with the operating system LCOS version 8.5, available for free download via the LANCOM customer portal: myLANCOM.

Guest Internet access now available via Ethernet and remote
With LCOS 8.5, the Public Spot option - originally developed for LANCOM's access points and WLAN controllers to provide secure wireless Internet access for guests - can now be activated on selected routers and on LANCOM's central-site gateways. For the first time, guest Internet access accounts can be implemented on a LANCOM network not only via wireless but also by wireline. This is often required in hotel rooms, for example, where difficult structural conditions prevent the use of wireless LAN. Using the same approach, companies relying on a cable-based network can use the existing infrastructure to provide guest Internet access in conference rooms, for instance.

Wireline guest access accounts operate in exactly the same way as wireless guest access. The login data is generated with a simple user interface and output to a standard printer. Time periods and methods of payment can be defined individually.

Another innovation in the LANCOM Public Spot solution will be of special interest to hotel chains and operators with multiple sites. With the option installed on a WLAN controller, for example at the data centre, the hotspot function can be made available at access points of remote locations over a secure connection. This technique provides a very economical way of implementing wireless hotspot solutions in distributed networks.

The LANCOM Public Spot option can be activated on all LANCOM Wireless LAN controllers and access points, on LANCOM 1711 VPN and LANCOM 1721+ VPN routers, and on LANCOM 7100 VPN and LANCOM 9100 VPN the central-site gateways.

Content filter with HTTPS requests
The LCOS 8.5’s new LANCOM Content Filter supports the blocking of unwanted HTTPS requests. This improves the effectiveness of web-site filtering with particular regard to the protection of minors, which is highly relevant as this option is increasingly used in schools. Furthermore, the performance of the filter has been optimised with the new version now capable of operating with twice the maximum number of active users per device. Another new feature is the simplified override function that allows administrators to configure the system to allow users to override the blocking of certain web site categories.

The LANCOM Content Filter can be activated on a variety of LANCOM routers, VPN central-site gateways, and on LANCOM WLAN controllers. A range of additional licenses are available for 10, 25 or 100 users, each with a validity period of 1 or 3 years. A full list of supported devices and numbers of users is available on the LANCOM web site.