Administration

The Administration page allows you to perform access point management tasks as described below.

Change Password—A password is required to configure the access point. Enter the user name and new password in the spaces provided and click Apply. It is recommended that you change the password from the default value (no password) to ensure network security.

Telnet and SSH Settings—This option controls whether the console management interface is enabled. There are two protocols available for console connection:

Telnet—Sends data unencrypted over the network.

SSH—Secures the connection by encrypting the information between the access point and the user’s computer.

Both options are enabled by default.

Note: SSH connections may appear to be disabled after booting up the access

point from a factory configuration for the first time. This is because the access point is generating a random key for use with SSH authentication. Wait a few minutes before trying to make SSH connections.

Telnet Server Enable—Enabling this option allows connection to the access point management interface using unencrypted Telnet.

SSH Server Enable—Enabling this option allows connection to the access point management interface using encrypted SSH.

SSH Port Number—This parameter determines the port number where the access point accepts SSH connections. The default port number is 22. Enter a value between 1024 and 65535.

Firmware Upgrade—You can upgrade firmware from a remote FTP or TFTP server. Select FTP or TFTP. Enter the firmware file name, the host IP address where the file is stored, the user name, and the password. Click Start Upgrade to start the upgrade process.

Backup and Restore Configurations—Access point configurations can be saved as data files and later used to restore the access point configuration. This option lets you save access point settings in an external file or copy them from an external file to the access point. You can save an entire configuration for use as a backup to a single access point, or you can save a basic configuration, which can then be used in common by several access points in a network, providing an easy way to reconfigure all access points in a network.

You must have a TFTP server set up on which to store the backup files.

WL-455 specifications

The 3Com WL-455 is a versatile wireless access point designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises. Renowned for its robust performance, this device is a critical component for businesses looking to enhance their wireless network capabilities.

One of the standout features of the WL-455 is its ability to support both 802.11b and 802.11g wireless standards. This dual compatibility allows organizations to maintain connectivity with a broad range of devices, ensuring high-speed internet access while reducing the risk of obsolescence as new technologies emerge. The WL-455 supports data rates of up to 54 Mbps, providing sufficient bandwidth for most applications utilized in a business environment.

Security is paramount in today's digital world, and the WL-455 excels in this area. It offers advanced security features including WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols, offering multiple layers of protection for sensitive data transmitted over the wireless network. This ensures that employees can connect to the network securely, minimizing the risks posed by potential threats.

In terms of management and installation, the 3Com WL-455 is designed for ease of use. It includes a streamlined web-based interface, which simplifies the process of configuring network settings. Additionally, the device supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling network administrators to deploy the access point without needing external power sources, reducing cabling clutter and simplifying setups.

The WL-455 is also equipped with a feature called Quality of Service (QoS), which prioritizes network traffic to ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth during peak usage times. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on real-time applications, such as VoIP or video conferencing, where latency and packet loss can severely impact performance.

With a sleek and compact design, the 3Com WL-455 can be easily mounted on ceilings or walls, allowing for flexible placement options within any office environment. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use while maintaining optimal performance.

Overall, the 3Com WL-455 is a powerful solution for organizations aiming to implement a reliable and secure wireless network. With its range of features, user-friendly management tools, and robust security measures, it emerges as an excellent choice for businesses looking to improve their connectivity and efficiency in an increasingly wireless world.