Edge-Core OAP6626A, User Manual

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2-1
Chapter 2: Network Configuration
The Dual-band Outdoor Access Point / Bridge system provides access point or
bridging services through either the 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz radio interfaces.
The wireless bridge units can be used just as normal 802.11a/b/g access points
connected to a local wired LAN, providing connectivity and roaming services for
wireless clients in an outdoor area. Units can also be used purely as bridges
connecting remote LANs. Alternatively, you can employ both access point and
bridging functions together, offering a flexible and convenient wireless solution for
many applications.
This chapter describes the role of wireless bridge in various wireless network
configurations.
Access Point Topologies
Wireless networks support a stand-alone wireless configuration as well as an
integrated configuration with 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LANs.
Wireless network cards, adapters, and access points can be configured as:
• Ad hoc for departmental, SOHO, or enterprise LANs
• Infrastructure for wireless LANs
• Infrastructure wireless LAN for roaming wireless PCs
The 802.11b and 802.11g frequency band, which operates at 2.4 GHz, can easily
encounter interference from other 2.4 GHz devices, such as other 802.11b or g
wireless devices, cordless phones and microwave ovens. If you experience poor
wireless LAN performance, try the following measures:
• Limit any possible sources of radio interference within the service area
• Increase the distance between neighboring access points
• Increase the channel separation of neighboring access points (e.g., up to 3
channels of separation for 802.11b or up to 5 channels for 802.11g)
Ad Hoc Wireless LAN (no Access Point or Bridge)
An ad hoc wireless LAN consists of a group of computers, each equipped with a
wireless adapter, connected through radio signals as an independent wireless LAN.
Computers in a specific ad hoc wireless LAN must therefore be configured to the
same radio channel.