Appendix I - Network

This section provides more detailed explanation on the network operation modes in general.

The Network Page allows the administrator to setup bridge or routing functionality.

Device can operate in bridge or router mode. The IP configuration as described below is required for device management purposes. IP addresses can either be retrieved from a DHCP server or configured manually. Use the Network menu to configure the IP settings.

Network Mode Selections

Network Mode: Specify the operating network mode for the device.

The mode depends on the network topology requirements:

Bridge operating mode is selected by default as it is widely used by the subscriber stations, while connecting to Access Point or using WDS. In this mode the device will act as a transparent bridge and will operate in Layer 2. There will be no network segmentation while broadcast domain will be the same. Bridge mode will not block any broadcast or multicast traffic. Additional Firewall settings can be configured for Layer 2 packet filtering and access control in Bridge mode.

Router operating mode can be configured in order to operate in Layer 3 to perform routing and enable network segmentation – wireless clients will be on different IP subnet.

Router mode will block broadcasts while it is not transparent.

Device supports Multicast packet pass-through in Router mode. Router can act as DHCP server and use Network Address Translation (Masquerading) feature which is widely used by the Access Points. NAT will act as the firewall between LAN and WLAN networks. Additional Firewall settings can be configured for Layer 3 packet filtering and access control in Router mode.

Bridge Mode

Bridge Mode Network Settings

In bridge mode the device forwards all the network management and data packets from one network interface to the other without any intelligent routing. For simple applications this provides efficient and fully transparent network solution. WLAN (wireless) and LAN (Ethernet) interfaces belong to the same network segment which has the same IP address space. WLAN and LAN interfaces form the virtual bridge interface while acting as the bridge ports. The bridge has assigned IP settings for management purposes:

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Compex Systems 802.11N manual Appendix I Network, Network Mode Selections, Bridge Mode Network Settings
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802.11N specifications

Compex Systems 802.11N solutions are designed to provide high-performance wireless networking, catering to the growing demand for faster and more reliable connectivity in various applications. The 802.11N standard, also known as Wi-Fi 4, significantly enhances the capabilities of previous Wi-Fi standards by utilizing advanced technologies and features.

One of the key characteristics of Compex Systems 802.11N products is their support for Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology. MIMO allows the transmission of multiple data streams simultaneously, effectively improving throughput and range. This is especially useful in environments with high user density or physical obstructions, as it enhances the signal quality and minimizes interference.

Another significant feature is the use of Channel Bonding, which combines two adjacent channels to double the data rate. This capability enables users to experience higher speeds, typically reaching up to 600 Mbps under optimal conditions. The dual-band operation, supporting both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, further enhances flexibility and performance. The 2.4 GHz band offers broader coverage, while the 5 GHz band provides faster speeds with less congestion.

Compex Systems also incorporates advanced security protocols in their 802.11N solutions. With support for WPA2 encryption and robust authentication methods, users can ensure that their connections remain secure, protecting sensitive data from potential threats.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another critical feature, allowing network administrators to prioritize traffic according to application needs. This ensures that bandwidth-intensive applications, such as video streaming and online gaming, receive the necessary resources for optimal performance, even in a crowded network environment.

Designed for versatility, Compex Systems 802.11N devices can be employed in various scenarios, including enterprise, education, healthcare, and hospitality sectors. Their compact and durable designs make them suitable for deployment in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Overall, Compex Systems 802.11N solutions offer a comprehensive set of features and technologies aimed at providing robust, high-speed wireless connectivity. With MIMO, Channel Bonding, dual-band support, enhanced security, and QoS capabilities, these systems are well-suited to meet the demands of modern wireless networking environments.
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