IDC
Predicts WLANs to be the Next Disruptive Technology
FRAMINGHAM, Mass., April 10, 2002 - The emergence and adoption of
wireless local area network (WLAN) technologies represents a significant
departure from wired networks that have existed for decades. WLANs will
impact network equipment in a similar way that mobile phones impacted the
traditional voice network. Worldwide revenue for WLAN equipment in 2001
reached $1.45 billion, up 34.2% from 2000, and is expected to grow to $3.72
billion in 2006.
"Mobile connectivity is being driven by the acceptance of wireless devices
and infrastructure both in and out of the enterprise. Entrenched data
networking vendors, primarily those selling LAN switches, routers, and IP VPNs
will integrate WLANs as part of their overall networking strategies," said
Jason Smolek, research analyst, Enterprise Networks. "But, perhaps,
the
largest opportunity will come from the SOHO and home networking space, where
Asia/Pacific vendors are driving WLANs to the masses in all corners of the
world."
There are four factors driving WLAN adoption. First,
new verticals such
as education and retail, second, deployment in visitor-based networks such as
airports and hotels, third, use in the SOHO/home networking space, and fourth,
the introduction of 5GHz products (802.11a and HiperLAN/2). Large
enterprises
will drive spending later in the forecast period, though old economy processes
like manufacturing and warehousing will still remain strong.
IDC's new report Worldwide Wireless LAN Equipment Market
Forecast and
Analysis, 2002-2006 (#26797) forecasts the worldwide wireless LAN equipment
market through 2006, analyzing the key markets, industry, and technology
trends that will impact the market's development throughout the forecast
period. To purchase this study, call IDC's volume sales hotline at
508-988-
7988 or email ctoffel@idc.com.
About IDC
IDC is the foremost global market intelligence and advisory
firm helping
clients gain insight into technology and ebusiness trends to develop sound
business strategies. Using a combination of rigorous primary research, in-
depth analysis, and client interaction, IDC forecasts worldwide markets and
trends to deliver dependable service and client advice. More than 700 analysts
in 43 countries provide global research with local content. IDC's customers
comprise the world's leading IT suppliers, IT organizations, ebusiness
companies, and the financial community. Additional information can be found at http://www.idc.com.
IDC is a division of IDG, the world's leading IT media,
research and
exposition company.