Configuring a Wireless Distribution System (WDS)

The Gateway 7001 Series self-managed AP lets you connect multiple access points using a Wireless Distribution System (WDS). WDS lets access points communicate with one another wirelessly in a standardized way. This capability is critical in providing a seamless experience for roaming clients and for managing multiple wireless networks. It can also simplify the network infrastructure by reducing the amount of cabling required.

Understanding the WDS

A Wireless Distribution System (WDS) is an 802.11f technology that wirelessly connects access points, known as Basic Service Sets (BSS), to form what is known as an Extended Service Set (ESS).

Important A BSS generally equates to an access point (deployed as a single-AP wireless “network”), except in cases where multi-BSSID features make a single access point look like two or more access points to the network. In such cases, the access point has multiple unique BSSIDs.

Using WDS to bridge distant wired LANs

In an ESS, a network of multiple access points, each access point serves part of an area which is too large for a single access point to cover. You can use WDS to bridge distant Ethernets to create a single LAN. For example, suppose you have one access point which is connected to the network by Ethernet and serving multiple client stations in the

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