Technical and operational analysis of the fortress secure wireless access bridge (ES-520) in support of tactical military coalition operations

Abstract

Technology Studies (COASTS) field experimentation program, utilize an access point, wireless bridge, switch, and security gateway. Reducing equipment requirements in the field is most desirable to minimize the equipment footprint, cost, and power required. The COASTS research group, involved in developing a scalable, multi-mission, system of systems for coalition environments, relies heavily on Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) network technology. Evaluating the performance of COTS technology such as the Fortress Secure Wireless Access Bridge (ES-520) directly supports the programs objectives. This thesis will analyze the performance of the Fortress Secure Wireless Access Bridge (ES-520) vs. traditional 802.11a/b/g wireless access points. Additionally, radio frequency (RF) propagation performance will be analyzed for distance, mobility, sustainability, and technical advantages/disadvantages with respect to varying antenna configurations and physical parameters such as climate and terrain. Testing and evaluation will be accomplished under the COASTS field experimentation program.