Wireless

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Networks

 

 

 

 

 

Key—The shared secret key that the WAP device uses to authenticate to the primary RADIUS server.

You can use up to 63 standard alphanumeric and special characters. The key is case sensitive and must match the key configured on the RADIUS server. The text you enter is shown as asterisks.

Key 2 to Key 4—The RADIUS key associated with the configured backup RADIUS servers. The server at Server IP (IPv6) Address 2 uses Key 2, the server at Server IP (IPv6) Address 3 uses Key 3, and so on.

Enable RADIUS Accounting—Enables tracking and measuring of the resources a particular user has consumed, such as system time, amount of data transmitted and received, and so on.

If you enable RADIUS accounting, it is enabled for the primary RADIUS server and all backup servers.

Active Server—Enables administratively selecting the active RADIUS server, rather than having the WAP device attempt to contact each configured server in sequence and choose the first server that is up.

Broadcast Key Refresh Rate—The interval at which the broadcast (group) key is refreshed for clients associated with this VAP.

The default is 300. The valid range is from 0 to 86400 seconds. A value of 0 indicates that the broadcast key is not refreshed.

Session Key Refresh Rate—The interval at which the WAP device refreshes session (unicast) keys for each client associated with the VAP.

The valid range is from 0 to 86400 seconds. A value of 0 indicates that the broadcast key is not refreshed.

WPA Personal

WPA Personal is a Wi-Fi Alliance IEEE 802.11i standard, which includes AES-CCMP and TKIP encryption. The Personal version of WPA uses a pre-shared key (PSK) instead of using IEEE 802.1X and EAP as is used in the Enterprise WPA security mode. The PSK is used for an initial check of credentials only. WPA Personal is also referred to as WPA-PSK.

This security mode is backwards-compatible for wireless clients that support the original WPA.

These parameters configure WPA Personal:

WPA Versions—The types of client stations you want to support:

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

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Cisco Systems WAP321, WAP121 manual WPA Personal

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.