Cisco adds 3G wireless to routers

Cisco will use AT&T, Sprint and Verizon Wireless as the initial 3G service providers in the US

Cisco is planning to add 3G wireless capabilities to its line of Integrated Service Routers. 

The routers are primarily aimed at companies looking quickly to set up a temporary network without using land-line networking equipment, or companies that wish to have a backup in case land-line equipment fails.

Cisco will use AT&T, Sprint and Verizon Wireless as the initial 3G service providers in the US. Telefonica Moviles Espana will provide services for the routers in Europe.

In conjunction with Cisco's new routers, AT&T announced that it will be offering a 3G interface card to allow computers to use the 3G components on the new router.

The new routers will also feature modules that support bigger wireless large area network setups. The modules will allow companies to link up to 12 wireless access points into the router.

Cisco hopes to ship the new routers by this summer.