Bridging
A wireless bridge is an access point configured to allow wireless communication from access point to access point. The wireless bridging function in the WAB-1000 allows use as a wireless bridge, in a number of alternate configurations, including the following popular configurations:
•Point-to-point bridging of 2 Ethernet Links;
•Point-to-multipoint bridging of several Ethernet links;
•Repeater mode (wireless client to wireless bridge.)
Because the WAB-1000 is equipped with two separate internal access point boards, it can operate as both a bridge and an access point with no loss of efficiency.
Data Encryption and Security
The WAB-1000 Wireless Access Point includes advanced wireless security features. Over the AP band, you have a choice of no security, Static WEP, or WPA. Some level of security is suggested. Static WEP gives you a choice of 64-bit, 128-bit or 152-bit encryption. WPA includes the option of using a WPA pre-shared key or, for the enterprise that has a Radius Server installed, configuration to use the Radius Server for key management with either TKIP or AES-CCMP. Bridging encryption is established between WAB-1000’s and includes use of AES-ECB or 3DES encryption (approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for U.S. Government and DoD agencies). (As a side note, NIST is currently reviewing the AES-CCMP adopted by the WiFi Alliance and is expected to eventually ratify that standard for U.S. Government use.)
A more detailed discussion of the WAB-1000 security features is covered in the following paragraphs.
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