GFI Software unveiled GFI WirelessSentry (GFI WiSe), a cloud-based solution designed to allow IT administrators to easily monitor, manage and secure their wireless networks, optimizing performance while protecting users from wireless threats, regardless of the networking hardware deployed.

GFI WiSe uses a simple-to-deploy lightweight sensor on a local machine near each access point, in conjunction with a web-based cloud management console. After deploying the sensor, WiSe automatically identifies nearby wireless networks and access points, which can then be easily monitored and managed via an intuitive dashboard that can be accessed using a variety of browser-equipped devices.

GFI WiSe works with a company’s existing systems, regardless of make and model, eliminating the need to make large investments in compatible hardware.

GFI WiSe’s vendor agnostic approach makes it an ideal option for SMBs who want a centrally-managed solution that controls costs around usage monitoring while assuring their network is secured and protected from rogue access points.

GFI WiSe features include:

· Vendor and AP agnostic: There’s no need to replace existing access points, as GFI WiSe works with any existing hardware. As a result, costs are kept low and the need for forklift upgrades of equipment are eliminated, along with vendor lock-in.

· Remote management of Wi-Fi networks: GFI WiSe’s cloud-based console makes networks accessible from virtually anywhere via a web-based console.

· Wireless vulnerability assessment and detection: The GFI WiSe wireless intrusion detection system (WIDS) enhances security by detecting threats and vulnerabilities, including rogue access points in and around an organization’s wireless network, alerting IT staff to their existence.

· Bandwidth monitoring: GFI WiSe sensors monitor the wireless connections and traffic on the access point. Sensors poll into the web console on a configured interval over a secured connection. Upon check-in, the sensor sends updated device connection and usage information to the web console.

· VIP Monitoring: GFI WiSe enables you to mark certain devices as “VIP”. This ensures you receive instant alerts when those devices connect to the network, and that you know their location. With complete knowledge of the SSID, access point and device the VIP is using, you can ensure business continuity for executives on the move.

· Real time alerts: GFI WiSe enables IT administrators and wireless network managers to monitor their networks via the dashboard. In addition, support staff can receive real-time alerts for critical and warning events via SMS or email. The graphical reporting tool allows users to easily attain detailed network usage information and share it with stakeholders.

“GFI WiSe is a vital tool for IT administrators to monitor, manage and secure their wireless estate,” said Sergio Galindo, GM of the Infrastructure Business Unit at GFI Software. “Its monitoring capability helps reduce wireless network down time, its management capability enables users to manage wireless networks with multiple locations, and its security feature does everything from identifying rogue access points and detecting all client devices connecting to their wireless network to locating threats and vulnerabilities in client networks. It is a very simple and straightforward way for IT administrators to monitor and manage their networks at a very reasonable price point.”

GFI WiSe is easy to install, maintain and can be up and running in minutes, without the need to replace any existing hardware. IT administrators quickly gain greater insight into the devices connecting to their networks; where, when and how users are connecting; and the amount of bandwidth used. In addition, GFI WiSe enhances wireless security and protects users against rogue access points in and around IT administrators’ wireless networks.

GFI WiSe is available immediately.