Mushroom Networks Launches Link-Bonding Device

Upstart CPE maker Mushroom Networks Inc. on Tuesday announced a device it claims can bond dissimilar speed and type links to form a bigger pipe that SMBs can use to more effectively download big files.

The company’s Truffle Broadband Bonding Networking Appliance (BBNA) uses IP technology to bond DSL, T-1, cable and satellite links into a large broadband pipe, with the SMB not requiring a similar device in a service provider network site as other older bonding approaches do.

“It’s geared toward the SMB and perhaps larger enterprise,” said Mushroom CEO Cahit Akin. “File downloads are spread over the multiple links [up to six], with the device also featuring a built-in firewall.” It also enables firms to prioritize traffic.

“The specific pain point today is that you can’t scale up networks gracefully,” explained Akin. Some SMBs “have two to three times more bandwidth at home,” which creates frustration, he added.

Mushroom’s Truffle BBNA features four LAN ports and six WAN ports and is shipping now for $3,000 apiece. Cahit claimed the device is being tested by multiple local exchange carriers, but did not say if they would be users or sell the product to their SMB customers.

The company may create a version of the unit for residential customers.

Mushroom Networks www.broadbandbonding.com

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