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Unit 6: Data Communication

use WEP Wired Equivalent Privacy security systems. These have been found to be still vulnerable Notes
to intrusion. Though WEP does block some intruders, the security problems have caused some
businesses to continue using wired networks until a more suitable security system can be
introduced. The use of suitable firewalls overcome some security problems in wireless networks
that are vulnerable to attempted unauthorized access.
6.5.3 Environmental Concerns and Health Hazard

Starting around 2009, there have been increased concerns about the safety of wireless
communications, despite little evidence of health risks so far. The president of Lakehead
University refused to agree to installation of a wireless network citing a California Public Utilities
Commission study which said that the possible risk of tumors and other diseases due to exposure
to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) needs to be further investigated.

Abuzz Technologies

buzz Technologies designs and manufactures interactive touch-screen kiosks.
Founded in 1995 as a design agency, Abuzz produced its first kiosks as an innovative
Away to present its portfolio of designs at trade shows. The overwhelming response
to these prototypes convinced the company to shift its focus to interactive touch-screen
products in 1997. A kiosk is a self-service terminal comprising a secure enclosure that houses
hardware and software. Kiosks usually incorporate a touch-screen monitor, printer, speakers
and keyboard as well as a custom-developed software application. The company is now one
of the largest kiosk manufacturers in Australia. Based in Sydney, with approximately 50 staff,
Abuzz exports to 13 countries around the world, including Germany, the Netherlands, the
United Kingdom and the United States. Abuzz’s impressive client list includes AMP, BMW,
Coles Myer, Greater Union, Hoyts, Nokia, Toyota, Westfield and Westpac. Abuzz designs
and assembles the kiosks and develops specialised applications to ensure each kiosk meets
the needs of each customer. For example, shopping centre management company Westfield
uses kiosks to enable shoppers to search for and locate the stores they need, while cinema
chain Greater Union uses them for self-service ticket sales. Banks such as the Commonwealth
Bank of Australia and Westpac use Abuzz kiosks as personnel directories.

Business Challenge
Abuzz was experiencing rapid revenue growth of about 50 per cent each year, but the
company’s data and telephony systems did not have the scale or flexibility required to meet
its evolving business needs. Its outdated PABX phone system was proving expensive in terms
of support and maintenance.
However, Abuzz’s telephony system wasn’t its only problem. The company was also
dissatisfied with its data network. Staff working remotely were unable to connect to critical
business applications. Network security was also a concern. Abuzz’s disconnected systems
meant it had to manage multiple vendors—one for its PABX phone system, another for Linux
firewall and a third for its data network. This increased the cost of managing and maintaining
the company’s technology systems.
“We wanted a telephony environment that would enable us to manage call flows ourselves
and that would integrate with our customer relationship management system,” said Drew.

Contd...

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