Linksys WAP51AB manual Setting Up the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point

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Instant WirelessTM Series

Chapter 4: Connecting the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point

1.Locate an optimum location for the Access Point. The best place for the Access Point is usually at the center of your wireless network, with line of sight to all of your mobile stations.

2.Fix the direction of the antenna. Try to place it in a position which can best cover your wireless network. Normally, the higher you place the anten- na, the better the performance will be. The antenna’s position enhances the receiving sensitivity.

3.Connect a standard Ethernet network cable to the Access Point. Then, connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to a switch or hub. The Access Point will then be connected to your 10/100 Network.

4.Connect the AC Power Adapter to the Access Point’s Power Socket. Only use the power adapter supplied with the Access Point. Use of a differ- ent adapter may result in product damage.

Now that the hardware installation is complete, proceed to Chapter 5: Setting Up the Dual-Band Wireless Access Point for directions on how to set up the Access Point.

Note: In order for all other wireless devices to communicate with the Access Point, those devices must be operating in the Infrastructure Mode. If any wireless devices are configured in the Ad Hoc Mode, they will not be recognized by the Access Point.

Dual-Band Wireless Access Point

Chapter 5: Setting Up the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point

Have You: Connected the Access Point to a hub, switch or router

on your wired network as shown in Chapter 4: Connecting the Dual-Band Wireless Access Point? The Access Point can only be set up through your wired network.

Now that you’ve connected the Access Point to your wired network, you are ready to begin setting it up. This Setup Wizard will take you through all the steps necessary to configure the Access Point.

Note: While the Access Point has been designed to work correctly right out of the box, setting it up on a wireless computer will require you to use the Linksys default settings. These settings can then be changed with the Setup Wizard or Web-based Browser Utility.

1.Insert the Setup Wizard CD into your PC’s CD-ROM drive. Your PC must be on your wired network to set up the Access Point.

2.The screen in Figure 5-1 should appear on your monitor. If it does not, this means the autorun is not functioning. Start the Setup Wizard manually by clicking the Start button, selecting Run, and typing d:\setup.exe (where “D” is your PC’s CD-ROM drive). Click the Setup button to continue this Setup Wizard. Clicking the User Guide button opened this User Guide. To access the Linksys web site on an active Internet connection, click the Linksys Web button or to exit this Setup Wizard, click the Exit button.

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Contents Dual-Band Wireless Access Point Copyright & Trademarks Table of Contents IntroductionSystem Requirements Planning Your Wireless NetworkPackage Contents Network TopologyPower Switch Dual-Band Wireless Access Point’s Back PanelPower Reset ButtonSetting Up the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point Instant WirelessTM Series Dual-Band Wireless Access Point Instant WirelessTM Series Instant WirelessTM Series Instant Wireless Series Configuring the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point Setup TabSetting WEP Encryption Password Tab Status TabHelp Tab Filter TabWireless Tab Can the Access Point act as my Dhcp Server? Appendix a TroubleshootingFrequently Asked Questions What Ieee 802.11a features are supported?What is Roaming? What is Ad-hoc?What is Infrastructure? What is BSS ID?How do I reset the Access Point? What is WEP?What is a MAC Address? How do I resolve issues with signal loss?IPX Setup for Windows 95, 98, and Millennium Setting Up TCP/IP in WindowsTCP/IP Setup for Windows 95, 98, and Millennium Select Specify an IP AddressTCP/IP Setup for Windows TCP/IP Setup for Windows NTIPX Setup for Windows NT IPX Setup for WindowsTCP/IP Setup for Windows XP Appendix C GlossaryDouble click the Network and Internet Connections icon Instant WirelessTM Series Instant WirelessTM Series Instant Wireless Series Appendix D Specifications Appendix E Warranty Information EnvironmentalSales Information Technical Support RMA Issues FaxAppendix F Contact Information Web FTP SiteCopyright 2002 Linksys, All Rights Reserved

WAP51AB specifications

Linksys WAP51AB is a Wireless Access Point designed to provide high-speed wireless connectivity for both home and office environments. With its dual-band capabilities, it operates efficiently on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, ensuring a stable connection for various applications, including streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming.

One of the standout features of the WAP51AB is its robust support for the latest wireless standards, including 802.11a/b/g. This versatility allows it to connect with a wide range of devices, from older wireless gadgets to the latest smartphones and laptops. Additionally, the access point enables simultaneous dual-band broadcasting, which helps to reduce congestion and improve the overall wireless experience.

The WAP51AB boasts advanced security features to protect users' data and privacy. It supports WPA2 encryption, ensuring robust security for wireless networks. The access point also offers MAC address filtering, which adds an additional layer of control over which devices can connect to the network, thereby enhancing security.

A key characteristic of the WAP51AB is its ease of setup and management. With the Linksys web-based configuration interface, users can quickly set up their network settings, manage bandwidth, and monitor connected devices with minimal hassle. This user-friendly interface simplifies the process for both novice and experienced users alike.

In terms of physical characteristics, the WAP51AB features a sleek, compact design that allows for easy mounting on walls or ceilings, making it an ideal choice for various deployment scenarios. The external antennas enhance wireless coverage, providing a reliable signal across larger areas, which is particularly useful in environments such as schools, warehouses, or multi-story buildings.

The Linksys WAP51AB also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling flexible placement options without the need for additional power sources. This feature is particularly advantageous in commercial settings where power outlets may be limited.

In summary, the Linksys WAP51AB stands out for its dual-band support, robust security features, user-friendly setup, and flexible installation options, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their wireless networking capabilities. Whether for home use or in a business environment, this access point delivers reliable performance and comprehensive coverage to meet diverse connectivity needs.