Business solutions

But don't just push the wireless device. Partners need to emphasise how the network is able to help expedite business processes instead of pushing technology for technology's sake, and to solve business outcomes. Preparing a site survey is the best way to extract the relevant information.

"Don't assume you know what the customer wants with respect to wireless. Listen to their problems and challenges, and determine their expectations," he said. "We don't expect resellers to know how to solve all problems. We can help them do a site survey and identify the appropriate equipment."

Nor surprisingly, brushing up on security training is a must when considering jumping into the wireless ring. Serious consequences can arise from malevolent users piggybacking on wireless connections, carrying out illegal activities and then disappearing.

There's no question that wireless is becoming ubiquitous. Many homes are equipped with access points or routers that transmit high-speed wireless Internet connections to computers, and on top of that, many commercial businesses, organisations, coffee shops and even entire cities have set up wireless access.

McAfee marketing director, Allan Bell, said many end-users were still hesitant to implement the technology due to security concerns. He said opportunities currently exist for resellers to not only learn how to alleviate these concerns, but also in providing innovative security solutions.

In order to improve wireless services such as voice transmissions, it is first necessary to implement the necessary measures to secure this sensitive data.

Some top security concerns include unauthorised people connecting to the network, the lack of monitoring and blocking tools, and accessing wireless laptops in areas that are compromised.

"Through a variety of attacks, if the wireless network is compromised, it can be a back door into the network," Bell said. "The attacker can bypass the gateway protection. The reseller needs to understand the security issues unique to a wireless network, and have the skill set to implement secure wireless setup."

Ensure only valid applications can run on the machine, secure end points through the desktop firewalls, implement network access control solutions, and ensure each computer complies with the company's security policy.

"In a wired world, the user needs physical access to the network. The physical aspect provides the user with an additional layer of security - you lose that in a wireless world."