Cisco Systems gave wireless networking a bump earlier this month when it released the 802.11n Aironet 1250 wireless network access point. The 802.11n standard isn't expected to be official until sometime in 2008, but Cisco's entry into the market signals that 802.11n is relatively mature. To that end, Cisco has been working closely with Intel to minimize the adoption risk for enterprise customers.

The Aironet 1250 takes advantage of Unified Wireless Network 4.2, Cisco's delivery platform for the delivery of enhanced mobility services. The services include voice-ready wireless networking, support for remote access points, and integrated spectrum analysis for improved reliability.

The Aironet 1250 is an enterprise-class wireless access point that features dual radios and is powered via a single Ethernet port. The new access point also features multiple-in, multiple-out technology for highly reliable wireless coverage. Joining it is a Catalyst 6500-based wireless LAN controller.

Cisco has been very active in the development of the 802.11n wireless standard. To address enterprise wireless security concerns, Unified Wireless Network 4.2 supports Secure Services Client 5.0, which is designed to address the security needs of single-client attachments and improves the user's experience when connecting to the wireless network.