Wireless

5

 

Quality of Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STEP 1 Select Wireless > QoS in the navigation pane.

STEP 2 Select an option from the EDCA Template list:

WFA Defaults—Populates the WAP device and Station EDCA parameters with WiFi Alliance default values, which are best for general, mixed traffic.

Optimized for Voice—Populates the WAP device and Station EDCA parameters with values that are best for voice traffic.

Custom—Enables you to choose custom EDCA parameters.

These four queues are defined for different types of data transmitted from WAP- to-station. If you choose a Custom template, the parameters that define the queues are configurable; otherwise, they are set to predefined values appropriate to your selection. The four queues are:

Data 0 (Voice)—High priority queue, minimum delay. Time-sensitive data such as VoIP and streaming media are automatically sent to this queue.

Data 1 (Video)—High priority queue, minimum delay. Time-sensitive video data is automatically sent to this queue.

Data 2 (Best Effort)—Medium priority queue, medium throughput and delay. Most traditional IP data is sent to this queue.

Data 3 (Background)—Lowest priority queue, high throughput. Bulk data that requires maximum throughput and is not time-sensitive is sent to this queue (FTP data, for example).

STEP 3 Configure the following EDCA and Station EDCA parameters:

NOTE These parameters are configurable only if you selected Custom in the previous step.

Arbitration Inter-FrameSpace—A wait time for data frames. The wait time is measured in slots. Valid values for AIFS are 1 through 255.

Minimum Contention Window—An input to the algorithm that determines the initial random backoff wait time (window) for retry of a transmission.

This value is the upper limit (in milliseconds) of a range from which the initial random backoff wait time is determined.

The first random number generated is a number between 0 and the number specified here.

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

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Cisco Systems WAP321, WAP121 manual Wireless

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.