Zyxel Networks has introduced two tri-band WiFi 7 access points designed for small businesses and home offices, offering wireless speeds of up to 9.3 gigabits per second (Gbps) and cloud-based network management.
The NWA50BE MAX and NWA90BE MAX are intended for businesses upgrading wireless infrastructure to accommodate growing numbers of connected devices, including point-of-sale terminals, security cameras and Internet of Things equipment.
The company said the new models combine support for the 2.4-gigahertz (GHz), 5GHz and 6GHz bands with simplified deployment and management features to reduce the cost and complexity of network upgrades.
Both access points support Smart Mesh Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows wireless links between access points to operate across the three frequency bands. The feature is designed to help businesses extend wireless coverage in locations where installing additional network cables is impractical.
The devices also support Zyxel’s Nebula cloud platform, which provides remote configuration, real-time monitoring and centralized network management through its core capabilities. Businesses can upgrade to more advanced management features as their requirements grow.
Security and deployment options
The NWA90BE MAX supports captive portal functions for managing guest WiFi access and branded login pages. It also supports IEEE 802.1X authentication and Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS), which can help businesses separate employee and guest network access.
Both models have a maximum power consumption of 15 watts. Zyxel said this is up to 38 percent lower than comparable tri-band WiFi 7 access points, based on published maximum power figures of 21W to 24W for competing products.
The access points will be available with or without a power adapter. Businesses with compatible USB-C or Power over Ethernet (PoE) power sources can select adapter-free versions, potentially reducing equipment costs and electronic waste.
“WiFi 7 is moving beyond high-end deployments, but smaller businesses still need to balance performance with the cost and effort of upgrading,” said Gary Chen, Zyxel Networks head of emerging markets.
The company said the new models are intended to help smaller organizations adopt WiFi 7 without adding unnecessary deployment and management complexity.
Distribution and availability
Zyxel said the NWA50BE MAX will be sold exclusively through e-commerce channels, while the NWA90BE MAX will be distributed through its channel partners.
The announcement did not specify Philippine pricing or local availability dates.
Product details are available on the company’s websites for the NWA50BE MAX and NWA90BE MAX.
