COMPANY CONFIDENTIAL
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3.4.2 Multiple APs With Different Security Modes
This example shows how a set of VAPs with different security modes can be defined. NOTE THAT THE WEP VAP IS
ATH0. This is required due to hardware limitations.
# export AP_STARTMODE=multi
# export AP_SSID=AP_wep
# export AP_SECMODE=WEP
# export AP_SECFILE=WEP.conf
# export AP_SSID_2=AP_open
# export AP_SECMODE_2=NONE
# export AP_SSID_3=AP_psk
# export AP_SECMODE_3=WPA
# export AP_SECFILE_3=wpa2-psk.conf
# export AP_SSID_4=AP_eap
# export AP_SECMODE_4=WPA
# export AP_SECFILE_4=wpa2EAP.conf
# apup
3.4.3 Changing Parameters in mBSSID Modes
It is highly recommended that the environmental variable method for configuring the AP be used. Since the ATH object
is shared, any configuration change that causes changes in the ATH object will also affect all defined VAPs. Some of
these changes can cause unstable behavior if the VAPs are running while they are made. Therefore, if ANY
configuration change is to be made, ALL VAPs must be brought down using ifconfig, and brought back up after the
configuration changes have been made.
3.5 Wi-Fi Distribution System (WDS)
The WDS system is used to create a network of AP’s that can be used as a single “virtual” AP. This is accomplished by
the 4 address frame format as specified by the 802.11 specification, in conjunction with layer 2 bridging implemented in
the AP. The MAC frames are forwarded to the appropriate AP based on the final destination MAC address provided.
WDS is essentially a tunneling protocol, and is unique to 802.11 implementations.
Several configurations can be implemented, as outlined in the following sections. All rely on a “root” AP device that is
the center of a “star” configuration of nodes.
3.5.1 AP With Single WDS Repeater
This configuration provides a single RF repeater station/AP that is used to bridge between a root AP and remote clients.
The repeater will have two VAPs: one that is a STA that connects to the root AP, and one that provides an Access Point
for the remote stations to associate to. The link between the Repeater and the Root AP uses the WDS mechanism with 4
address frames.
3.5.1.1 Limitations
When running in repeater mode, the following limitations apply:
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VAP configuration after start are subject to the conditions specified in
section 3.4.3 and section 0
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Use the environmental variable method to configure the VAPs.
