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Planning Your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless network is a group of computers, each equipped with one or more wireless adapters. Computers in a wireless network must be configured to share the same radio channel to talk to each other. Several computers equipped with wireless cards or adapters can communicate with each other to form an ad-hoc network without the use of an access point.

Cisco also provides products to allow wireless adaptors to access wired network through a bridge such as the wireless access point, or wireless router. An integrated wireless and wired network is called an infrastructure network. Each wireless computer in an infrastructure network can talk to any computer in a wired or wireless network via the access point or wireless router.

An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of a wireless computer to a wired network, and may double the effective wireless transmission range for two wireless adapter computers. Since an access point is able to forward data within a network, the effective transmission range in an infrastructure network may be more than doubled since access point can transmit signal at higher power to the wireless space.

Roaming

Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. Roaming means that you can move your wireless computer within your network and the access points will pick up the wireless computer’s signal, providing that they both share the same wireless network (SSID) and wireless security settings.

Before you consider roaming, choose a feasible radio channel and optimum access point position. Proper access point positioning combined with a clear radio signal will greatly enhance performance.

WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point with Power Over Internet

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Cisco Systems WAP4410N manual Network Topology, Roaming

WAP4410N specifications

The Cisco Systems WAP4410N is a robust Wireless-N access point designed to enhance connectivity in small to medium-sized business environments. It provides seamless, high-performance wireless connections while maintaining security and managing features that cater to the needs of modern enterprises.

One of the standout features of the WAP4410N is its Wireless-N technology, which offers improved range and speed compared to previous wireless standards. With dual-band support of both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, the device delivers enhanced performance by allowing users to connect to the less congested 5 GHz band for data-intensive applications. This capability significantly reduces interference from other devices, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.

The WAP4410N comes equipped with advanced security protocols, including WPA2, WPA, and WEP encryption, which play a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive data transmitted over the network. Additionally, it supports features such as MAC address filtering and VLANs, allowing administrators to create secure, segmented networks tailored to their specific needs.

For ease of management, the WAP4410N includes a user-friendly web-based interface, enabling quick configuration and monitoring of network settings. The device also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), simplifying installation by eliminating the need for external power outlets.

The Cisco WAP4410N offers support for multiple SSIDs, allowing businesses to create distinct access profiles for guests and employees, thereby enhancing network security and management. Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities ensure that bandwidth is prioritized for critical applications, accommodating voice over IP (VoIP) and video streaming with minimal interruptions.

With a sleek, compact design and versatile mounting options, the WAP4410N can be easily installed in various environments, providing unobtrusive network coverage that is both effective and aesthetically pleasing.

Overall, the Cisco Systems WAP4410N stands out as a reliable and feature-rich access point that meets the demands of contemporary wireless networking, making it a valuable addition to any small or medium-sized business looking to improve its connectivity infrastructure.