NetComm NP6800 manual Advanced Topics, Network Topology

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Advanced Topics

Network Topology

The IEEE 802.11 standard supports three basic topologies for WLANs - the Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS), the Basic Service Set (BSS), and the Extended Service Set (ESS). WLAN components can be used to extend, enhance or entirely replace existing Ethernet infrastructure. The NetComm NP6800 - Wireless LAN Access Point can accommodate any of these WLAN topologies.

IBSS

An Independent Basic Service Set or Ad Hoc network consists of two or more wireless stations that communicate directly, peer-to-peer, without the services of a wireless access point. An example of an Ad Hoc or IBSS network would be a group of wireless-equipped laptop computers at a trade show set up to share information. In this arrangement, one of the WLAN units is elected to act as a controller or base station, similar to the function of a wireless access point except there is no connection to a wired Ethernet LAN.

BSS

In a Basic Service Set network, a wireless access point performs multiple tasks - it is a base station and a network access controller for the wireless stations in the WLAN. The access point can also provide a connection to a wired Ethernet LAN for the BSS member stations. An example of a BSS might be a business meeting conducted in a room with only a single Ethernet port available. Each participant has a wireless laptop computer and requires simultaneous access to a data server on the Ethernet LAN. A wireless access point provides the connection to the Ethernet LAN and acts as the network control station for the BSS network members.

In a BSS network, the wireless access point performs functions similar to an Ethernet switch. The access point controls network access and maintains a dynamically updated list of all the members of the BSS. Wireless stations in the BSS are identified by their MAC Addresses.

ESS

An Extended Service Set is a series of two or more basic service sets (BSSs) networked on an Ethernet LAN. Each access point provides connections to the Ethernet LAN for their respective BSS members. Each BSS member is identified by a unique number, the BSSID (actually the MAC address of the access point). Wireless stations (such as a laptop computer with a NetComm NP7032 - Wireless LAN PC Card installed) on an ESS network automatically select the access point or BSS that can serve them best (has the best signal). If no access point can be found, the device will scan for a usable access point.

An ESS network can be set up so that wireless stations can roam anywhere within the range of the access points and still maintain links to both the WLAN and the Ethernet LAN. In this case, each station shares a common ESS. The ESS network is identified by an ESSID that is known and used by all of the stations in the ESS network.

Wireless access points can also be used to segment a wireless network. Under such circumstances, more than one ESS might be used. Two or more separate ESS's can occupy the same physical space. Each station on a WLAN can use only one ESS - and thus only one ESSID.

Rev.1 - YML655

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NP6800 - Wireless LAN Access Point

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Contents Page Contents Introduction NetComm NP6800 Wireless LAN Access Point LED Descriptions About the NetComm NP6800 Wireless LAN Access PointInfrastructure ESS or 802.11-Station Mode Wireless LAN BasicsAd-Hoc Ibss Mode Mbps Operation Signal RangeRev.1 YML655 NP6800 Wireless LAN Access Point Installation Rev.1 YML655 NP6800 Wireless LAN Access Point Installing the Wlan Driver in Windows 98/ME/2000 Driver Installation & ConfigurationInstalling the Driver in Windows XP Installing the Access Point Utility Uninstallation Procedure Configuring the Access Point via USB Configuring the Access PointSubnet Mask IP AddressWEP Community passwordRev.1 YML655 NP6800 Wireless LAN Access Point Assigning a Temporary IPAddress Configuring the Access Point via EthernetConnecting to the Access Point using the Snmp Manager Rev.1 YML655 File Menu Bridge Setup MenuIP Configuration Operational Settings Wireless LANRev.1 YML655 Authorized MAC Address MAC Address Filter Access Point Mode Operation ModeWireless Bridge Mode Access Point Client ModeClick Point to Point Point to PointPoint to MultiPoint Enable Snmp traps Commands Menu AuthorizationField name Description Info MenuNetwork Menu Traps MenuAbout Menu Window MenuNetwork Topology Advanced TopicsHow to Make Your Wireless Network More Secure Glossary Rev.1 YML655 Windows Troubleshooting Tips TroubleshootingTrademarks and Notices Default SettingsNew Settings Contact InformationWarranty Registration Form Page Limitations of Warranty Product Warranty

NP6800 specifications

The NetComm NP6800 is a robust and versatile networking device designed to cater to the needs of modern businesses and consumers looking for high-performance connectivity solutions. This device stands out due to its compelling features, cutting-edge technologies, and remarkable characteristics, making it an ideal choice for diverse applications.

One of the key features of the NetComm NP6800 is its support for advanced broadband technologies, including VDSL2, ADSL2+, and ADSL. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that users can seamlessly connect to different types of internet services, enhancing flexibility and minimizing disruptions during transitions between service providers or technologies. The device's VDSL2 capabilities, in particular, allow for high-speed internet access, providing download speeds of up to 100 Mbps, which is essential for businesses that require considerable bandwidth for tasks like video conferencing, large file transfers, and cloud services.

The NP6800 is also equipped with multiple Ethernet ports, enabling users to connect various devices to the network simultaneously. This feature is beneficial in environments where multiple users depend on stable internet connections for work or entertainment purposes. Additionally, the device offers a clear and intuitive user interface, facilitating easy setup and management even for those with limited technical knowledge.

In terms of wireless capabilities, the NetComm NP6800 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, allowing users to take advantage of both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This dual-band support helps minimize interference and enhances overall network performance, catering to varying device requirements, from streaming high-definition content to casual web browsing. The NP6800 also incorporates advanced security protocols, including WPA3, to safeguard users' data against unauthorized access, ensuring a secure browsing experience.

Moreover, the NetComm NP6800 supports Quality of Service (QoS) features, allowing users to prioritize critical applications and allocate bandwidth accordingly. This prioritization ensures that essential tasks, such as voice calls and video conferencing, receive the necessary bandwidth, thereby enhancing overall user experience.

In conclusion, the NetComm NP6800 offers a comprehensive blend of features and technologies designed to meet the demands of modern connectivity. With its robust performance, extensive compatibility, and emphasis on security, the NP6800 emerges as a reliable choice for both home and business environments, making it a worthy investment for anyone seeking a dependable networking solution.