Wireless

Radio

5

•Primary Channel (802.11n modes with 20/40 MHz bandwidth only)—A

40 MHz channel can be considered to consist of two 20 MHz channels that are contiguous in the frequency domain. These two 20 MHz channels are often referred to as the Primary and Secondary channels. The Primary Channel is used for 802.11n clients that support only a 20 MHz channel bandwidth and for legacy clients.

Select one of these options:

-Upper—Sets the Primary Channel as the upper 20 MHz channel in the 40 MHz band.

-Lower—Sets the Primary Channel as the lower 20 MHz channel in the 40 MHz band. Lower is the default selection.

•Channel—The portion of the radio spectrum the radio uses for transmitting and receiving.

The range of available channels is determined by the mode of the radio interface and the country code setting. If you select Auto for the channel setting, the WAP device scans available channels and selects a channel where the least amount of traffic is detected.

Each mode offers a number of channels, depending on how the spectrum is licensed by national and transnational authorities such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the International Telecommunication Union (ITU-R).

STEP 4 In the Advanced Settings area, configure these settings:

•Short Guard Interval Supported—This field is available only if the selected radio mode includes 802.11n.

The guard interval is the dead time, in nanoseconds, between OFDM symbols. The guard interval prevents Inter-Symbol and Inter-Carrier Interference (ISI, ICI). The 802.11n mode allows for a reduction in this guard interval from the a and g definition of 800 nanoseconds to 400 nanoseconds. Reducing the guard interval can yield a 10 percent improvement in data throughput.

The client with which the WAP device is communicating must also support the short guard interval.

Select one of these options:

-Yes—The WAP device transmits data using a 400-nanosecond guard Interval when communicating with clients that also support the short guard interval. Yes is the default selection.

Cisco Small Business WAP121 and WAP321 Wireless-N Access Point with PoE

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Cisco Systems WAP121, WAP321 manual Wireless
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WAP121, WAP321 specifications

Cisco Systems has long been recognized for its innovation in networking technologies, and the Cisco WAP321 and WAP121 access points are prime examples of its commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance wireless networking solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. These devices offer a robust set of features designed to meet the requirements of modern wireless networking while ensuring ease of use and deployment.

The Cisco WAP321 is a dual-band access point that operates in both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, providing flexibility and improved performance in crowded environments. With support for the 802.11n Wi-Fi standard, it boasts a combined data rate of up to 450 Mbps, enabling high-speed connections for multiple users simultaneously. The WAP321 also includes advanced features such as multiple SSIDs and VLAN support, allowing businesses to segment their networks for enhanced security and management control.

One of the standout characteristics of the WAP321 is its ability to act as a lightweight access point, meaning it can be managed through a Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) for larger deployments. This capability allows for centralized management of multiple access points, making it easier for IT administrators to deploy, configure, and monitor their network infrastructure.

On the other hand, the Cisco WAP121 is designed for those requiring a simpler, more cost-effective solution. This single-band access point also operates on the 2.4 GHz band but still provides robust performance with wireless speeds reaching up to 300 Mbps. It is ideal for small businesses looking to develop or expand their wireless networks without the complexities associated with more advanced systems.

Both models feature Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability, enabling them to receive power through the Ethernet cable, which simplifies installation and reduces the need for additional power outlets. Additionally, they support advanced security protocols, including WPA/WPA2 encryption, ensuring that sensitive data transmitted over the network remains protected from unauthorized access.

The ease of setup and user-friendly management interfaces of both the WAP321 and WAP121 make them appealing options for businesses lacking extensive IT resources. With features aimed at enhancing both performance and security, these access points represent powerful tools for achieving reliable wireless connectivity in a business environment. Whether organizations opt for the WAP321 for its extensive capabilities or the WAP121 for its simplicity, both access points reflect Cisco's dedication to meeting diverse networking needs.
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