exclamation points (!). You can refresh this display by clicking Refresh. You should refresh the display, for example, after you change a device IP address.

2In the Wireless Network Tree, select the device you want to configure.

If more than one wireless LAN device appears in the tree and you are not sure that you have selected the right one, click Properties and check the MAC address to verify that it is the one you want.

3Click Configure.

If the selected device is on the same subnet as your computer, the configuration management system main page appears in your Web browser. (If a password is set on the device, enter it when prompted.)

If the selected device is on a different subnet, the Pre-IPConfiguration Wizard is activated automatically. This wizard lets you configure the IP settings for the selected wireless device. It proposes IP address and subnet mask settings derived from your computer’s settings, so the selected device will then reside on the same subnet as your computer. You can accept the suggested settings or change them as required. For more information, see

“Using the Pre-IP Configuration Wizard” on page 26.

The next window prompts for an administrative password to allow the new IP address to be set. When the units are shipped from the factory, there is no administration password and you should leave the password field blank. If an administration password has been set for the device, enter the password and click Next. The 3Com Web Configuration Management System main screen appears in your Web browser.

The following table describes the functions of the buttons in the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager window.

Button

Description

 

 

Properties

Displays the following properties of the selected device: Device Name, Device

 

Type, Wireless LAN Service Area (ESSID), IP Address, Subnet Mask, and

 

MAC Address.

Configure

Launches the Configuration Management System for the selected device. If the

 

selected device is on a different subnet, you are prompted to assign an address

 

on the same subnet as your computer.

Refresh

Scans the network and displays the connected 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless

 

LAN devices.

Choose NIC

If your computer has more than one network interface card installed, allows you

 

to choose which card you want to use.

Close

Closes the device manager window and ends the session.

25

Page 27
Image 27
3Com WL-455 manual Click Configure

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.