Cisco updates suite of network management software

Cisco has updated its Network Magic suite of network management software that allows consumers to setup, manage, and help secure their home networks.

The latest releases (Network Magic Pro, Network Magic Essentials, and Network Magic Basic) offer a new dynamic, interactive network map, more intuitive navigation, support for more types of networked consumer devices, and simplified access to printer and file sharing from within Network Magic. In addition, to add unprecedented value to its line of wireless routers, Network Magic Basic will now be included with all Linksys by Cisco wireless routers.

Network Magic highlights:

Updated user interface
A more consumer-friendly user interface offers users more intuitive control over devices on their network from within a single network map window. The new interface also adds simplified access to printer and file sharing, an easier process for adding wireless devices, and support for a broader range of devices than earlier generations of Network Magic.

Comprehensive parental controls
Network Magic users can utilize the Parental Controls built into the software to help oversee and control exactly how the Internet is being used by the whole family. With a simple point and set interface, users can set limits for web browsing, game playing and overall Internet usage. Additionally, for select Linksys by Cisco Wireless-N Routers, Home Network Defender, powered by Trend Micro, has been integrated into Network Magic to add further Parental Control capabilities to the offering.

Integration with Linksys by Cisco wireless routers
Going forward, all Linksys by Cisco wireless routers will feature Network Magic Basic as the default network management tool.

Expanded language support
The new versions of Network Magic include 33 languages integrated into the software.

Optimized SpeedTest
New regional server support provides better measurement of local services through the popular Network Magic SpeedTest function.