WOP-2ac quick manual
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9 Cluster operation mode
9.1 Description
The cluster operation mode allows to manage devices in a cluster simultaneously, that sufficiently improves
operation efficiency while deploying, configuring or exploiting a wireless network.
When operating in Cluster mode, it is sufficiently that you configure only one access point. The rest of the access
points will copy the configuration of the device with set parameters. If the configuration of one access point in a
cluster has been changed, the other access points will apply the same changes. The solution is valid while
firmware update. Operation in Cluster mode allows to perform manageable consistent firmware update of devices
in a cluster.
The cluster is a group of devices allocated in a single broadcast domain with synchronized configuration and
firmware. Cluster mode is enabled by default. The defining parameter of the mode is the name of a cluster by
which the identification of device attachment to this cluster is performed. The default name of a cluster is
«default»
. After loading, WOP-2ac defines if there are devices located on the network with the same name as in its
configuration. If the devices with these parameters are not found, WOP-2ac becomes a master of the cluster. If
the devices belonging to the cluster are found, WOP-2ac starts copying the configuration of a master. Thus, the
first device with enabled Cluster mode occurred on the network becomes a master of its cluster. Other devices
occurred on the network later and having the same cluster name start duplicating the master configuration.
Several clusters with different names might be located in the same network simultaneously. One access point
should be included to only one cluster.
WOP-2ac announces its affiliation to a cluster through a special protocol. The device sends broadcast UDP
packets to LAN with data on affiliation to a particular cluster. Thus, all the access points included to a cluster
exchange data among them, identify a master of the cluster and its configuration. The master carries out an
inventory of the devices in the cluster and always controls the quantity of the access points in the cluster and their
addresses.
9.2 Installation
It is sufficient that only one access point be configured when deploying a network. For providing data exchange
among devices in a cluster, you should install a DHCP server for network addresses distribution.
Network installation algorithm:
1. DHCP server installation.
2. Configuration and physical connection of an access point.
3. Physical connection of other access points in the cluster.
After installing the first access point, you do not need to configure the rest, it is sufficient to connect them
physically to the network. The devices will obtain network addresses, define the master of the «default» cluster
and will be automatically configured according to the master configuration.
9.3 Cluster configuration
The device may operate in a cluster only if WDS (Wireless Distribution System) and WGB (Work Group Bridge)
features are disabled.
For operation in a cluster Management Ethernet interfaces of all access points should be located in one network.
Cluster operation mode is disabled by default.
In
«Cluster»
menu, open
«Access Points»
tab and perform the following: