Socket Improves the Software for its Wireless Networking Cards

Socket Communications has released new drivers for its Wi-Fi CompactFlash card and Wi-Fi SD Card for Pocket PCs. These drivers are the necessary software for the handheld that allows it to make use of these wireless networking cards.

The improved drivers include a new Graphical User Interface (GUI) with advanced network monitoring capabilities. They provide real-time monitoring of signal strength, link quality, Internet availability, data rate, packets sent/received, and duration of connection.

They use Microsoft's built-in Wireless Zero Configuration tool for Wireless Network configuration and profile management.

Wi-Fi Protected Access

These new drivers also offer support for WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) and WPA-PSK (Pre-shared) security.

WPA offers enterprise-class security -- an industry standard instituted by the Wi-Fi Alliance -- that combines strong encryption, message integrity checking (called "Michael"), and 802.1x authentication.

WPA is supported using certificate-based EAP-TLS and EAP-PEAP. WPA with Pre-shared Key (PSK) is also supported for SOHO environments. WPA and WPA-PSK are only supported on Windows Mobile Second Edition as well as on some ROM upgrades of the original Windows Mobile. Users will need to check with the manufacturer of their device to see if WPA support is available.

Pricing and Availability

Socket's new drivers are now shipping with its Wi-Fi CompactFlash card and Wi-Fi SD Card. Current owners of these cards can download the new, enhanced software at no charge from the Socket web site.

Thanks to Geekzone for the tip.

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