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Chapter 1: Introduction
Configuring via web browser?
We recommend that you wait to apply network configuration changes until all fields are correctly set. If you change modes and
press apply before finalizing your changes, your remote computer may no longer be on the same network as the Coalesce and
will need to be reconnected to the network.
1.6 Selecting a Network Deployment Mode
Using the Configuration Panel, enable and configure Ethernet and/or wireless settings. Keep in mind that if you are configuring a
Coalesce using a separate computer via the Coalesce unit's browser-based Configuration Panel, changing the network the
Coalesce is attached to will require you to similarly modify the network your device is attached to in order to continue configuring
the Coalesce.
First, determine what networks, if any, you want to attach your Coalesce units to. Remember, there is a firewall in place between
the Coalesce unit's Ethernet and wireless ports, so when the Coalesce is attached to multiple networks, your networks remain
separate and secure. When attaching to multiple networks, Black Box recommends connecting to the primary network (e.g. the
enterprise network for corporate users) via the Coalesce unit's Ethernet port, and connecting to any secondary network (e.g. an
existing guest network) via the Coalesce unit's wireless.
When the WAP mode is enabled, you can designate both the SSID (i.e. wireless hotspot network name) and security settings for
user access to the WAP. Ethernet can be configured for DHCP, or a static IP address can be selected with settings for Gateway,
Network prefix length, and DNS information.
If you are attaching the Coalesce as a wireless client to an existing network, you will need to provide the existing wireless network
SSID and password (if required). You can either type in the network SSID by selecting “Add Wireless Network” or use the “Scan”
feature and the associated drop-down menu to select the correct SSID. These are options in the Coalesce unit's Configuration
Panel under the “Wireless Settings” section of the “Network” tab. You may need to first enable wireless settings and then press
apply to see these options.
1.7 Deploying the Coalesce
With fully configurable Ethernet and wireless capabilities, the Coalesce offers a range of deployment options. Deploying the
Coalesce on an existing network is the most common setup but may require additional consideration. For small, flat network set-
ups with a single switch (e.g. small business environments) it is usually sufficient to configure the Coalesce to receive a DHCP
address and attach it to the network. In more complex network environments, IT management at the network layer should be
considered/consulted. Coalesce is flexible in this regard, and the specific network configuration details should be determined
based on existing network IT policies and management preferences.
This guide covers seven common deployment configurations that support different use-case needs and IT requirements. Select the
configuration that most closely matches your network setting and follow the associated setup process.
