Wireless

Radio

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Some channel ranges and country code combinations have relatively low maximum transmit power. When attempting to set the transmit power to the lower ranges (for example, 25% or 12%), the expected drop in power may not occur, because certain power amplifiers have minimum transmit power requirements.

•Fixed Multicast Rate—The transmission rate in Mbps for broadcast and multicast packets. This setting can be useful in an environment where wireless multicast video streaming occurs, provided the wireless clients are capable of handling the configured rate.

When Auto is selected, the WAP device chooses the best rate for the associated clients. The range of valid values is determined by the configured radio mode.

•Legacy Rate Sets—Rates are expressed in megabits per second.

Supported Rate Sets indicate rates that the WAP device supports. You can check multiple rates (check a box to select or deselect a rate). The WAP device automatically chooses the most efficient rate based on factors such as error rates and the distance of client stations from the WAP device.

Basic Rate Sets indicate rates that the WAP device advertises to the network for the purposes of setting up communication with other access points and client stations on the network. It is generally more efficient to have a WAP device broadcast a subset of its supported rate sets.

•MCS (Data Rate) Settings—The Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) index values that the WAP device advertises. MCS can enhance throughput for 802.11n wireless clients.

Check the box below the MCS index number to enable it or uncheck it to disable the index. You cannot disable all indexes at the same time.

The WAP device supports MCS indexes 0 to 15. MSC index 15 allows for a maximum transmission rate of 300 Mbps. If no MCS index is selected, the radio operates at MCS index 0, which allows for a maximum transmission rate of 15 Mbps.

The MCS settings can be configured only if the radio mode includes 802.11n support.

•Broadcast/Multicast Rate Limiting—Multicast and broadcast rate limiting can improve overall network performance by limiting the number of packets transmitted across the network.

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

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Cisco Systems WAP321, WAP121 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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