Designers always put ad-hoc wireless networking on a pedestal. Now, GreenPacket promises to make it easier to create such a network with SONbuddy. This software platform enables WLAN-equipped handheld and personal devices to form spontaneous, self-organizing networks (SON). SONbuddy automatically seeks, organizes, and maintains a peer-to-peer and peer-to-multi-peer, ad-hoc community based on user-defined search parameters.

The software allows a mobile device to connect to other mobile handhelds or computers and communicate with them without a wireless network. To do so, it uses the wireless devices as intelligent routers. The result is the formation of a true ad-hoc network. When a transmission occurs from device A to device B, it multi-hops over other devices to create a connection. That connection extends the reach of a typical wireless LAN.

If a device were to go out of range or be switched off in the middle of the hop, SONbuddy algorithms automatically re-route the signal to another device. This aspect enables the formation of a self-healing network. SONbuddy's algorithms deliver self-organizing, self-healing, and self-optimizing networks without relying on any infrastructure. The solution also permits the user's data to be authenticated and encrypted.

SONbuddy is available in beta form for Windows-based notebooks, desktops, and PocketPC-based PDAs. The applications being launched with the solution include BuddyManager, which lets a user create multiple self profiles. BuddyExplorer permits users to seek out people with similar interests and profiles. For peer-to-peer or peer-to-multi-peer gaming, users can relay on Buddy2Play. With BuddyXchange, a user can transfer files from one device to another without having to log onto a network.

Green Packet, Inc.
4043 Clipper Ct., Fremont, CA 94538; (510) 651-9338, FAX: (510) 651-9088, www.greenpacket.com.