3Com WL-455 manual Security, Selecting a Virtual Access Point VAP, Configuring Authentication

Models: WL-455

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SECURITY

The Security page allows you to set up lower-layer client authentication and data encryption parameters as described below.

Note: Because of limitations in the Virtual Access Point feature, VAPs on the same physical interface share the same WEP keys; therefore, the WEP configuration section applies to both VAPs.

When you are finished configuring items on this page, click Apply.

SELECTING A VIRTUAL ACCESS POINT (VAP)

Open the Virtual AP drop-down box and select the VAP you want to configure. Each VAP has its own set of security parameters except for the WEP key table, which is shared between two VAPs.

CONFIGURING AUTHENTICATION

The following types of authentication can be configured:

„Open System (the default)—Allows access to everyone.

„Shared Key—If Shared Key is enabled, Encryption must also be enabled as described in “Configuring Encryption” on page 54.

CONFIGURING ENCRYPTION

The following types of data encryption are available:

„WPA—Wi-Fi Protected Access.

„WEP—Wired Equivalent Privacy

The access point and the wireless devices must have the same encryption settings to communicate. You can choose to allow only clients using WPA encryption, or you can allow both WPA and WEP clients.

The following sections describe how to configure each type of encryption. When you are finished configuring the encryption, click Apply.

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3Com WL-455 manual Security, Selecting a Virtual Access Point VAP, Configuring Authentication, Configuring Encryption

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.