SMC Networks has released an updated 802.11g gateway targeted at the small and midsize enterprise market for quick, simple, secure Wi-Fi hotspot deployments at hotels, cafes, exhibition areas, bus station and similar venues.

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The gateway can be used to create password-protected Internet access for customers, as either a value-added or fee-based service.

What's new in the EliteConnect 2.4GHz 802.11g Wireless Hotspot Gateway is support for RADIUS/802.1X authentication, authorization and accounting and an Ethernet interface for the gateway's bundled point-of-sale printer/keypad (previously tethered directly to the hotspot via a printer cable) for tickets and receipts. If customers lack a RADIUS server, the gateway offers an internal authentication database for up to 512 entries. (Compare SMB wireless product with our online Buyer's Guide.)

As with the previous models, the new version supports 54Mbps 802.11g (and 802.11b) clients, has a built-in four-port 10/100Mbps Ethernet LAN switch, a 10/100Mbps WAN port, and Power-over-Ethernet. SMC says the gateway can support up to 100 simultaneous users, presuming they're not all making VoIP calls or streaming "American Idol" TV episodes.

The twin omni-directional antennas are detachable, and can be replaced with any of several SMC high-gain antennas and directional antennas.

A Web-based management interface is designed to make configuration and set-up simple. There are interfaces to an array of payment gateways such as Authorize.net, iValidate.net, Secure Pay and others. It supports SSL user login and administration, and VPN pass through, and Wi-Fi Protected Access.

The gateway is priced at about $900, printer included.