Wireless-N Access Point with Power Over Ethernet

Chapter 5: Setting Up the Wireless-N Access Point

Overview

The Access Point has been designed to be functional right out of the box with the default settings. However, if you'd like to change these settings, the Access Point can be configured through your web browser with the Web- based Utility. This chapter explains how to use the Utility to perform the most basic settings.

The Utility can be accessed via web browsers, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox through the use of a computer that is networked with the Access Point.

For a basic network setup, most users only have to use the following screens of the Utility:

Setup

On the Setup screen, enter your basic network settings (IP address) here.

Management

Click the Administration tab and then select the Management screen. The Access Point’s default password is admin. To secure the Access Point, change the AP Password from its default.

Most users will also customize their wireless settings:

Wireless

On the Wireless screen, change default SSID under the Basic Wireless Settings Tab. Select the level of security under the Wireless Security Tab and complete the options for the selected security mode.

Accessing the Utility

There are three ways to connect to your Access Point for the first time.

1.If you have a 48VDC Power Injector (e.g. Linksys WAPPOE), power up your Access Point first, then connect the Injector’s cable to your PC. Configure your PC to have the static IP address on the same subnet as the Access Point’s default IP address (192.168.1.245).

2.If you have a PoE switch (e.g. Linksys SRW224P), connect your Access Point and your PC to the same network. Configure your PC to have the static IP address on the same subnet as the Access Point’s default IP address (192.168.1.245). Or if there is a DHCP server connected to the switch, configure it to assign the IP address in 192.168.1.0/24 subnet. Your PC will get an IP address in the subnet through the DHCP.

HAVE YOU: Enabled TCP/IP on your PCs? PCs communicate over the network with this protocol. Refer to “Appendix D: Windows Help” for more information on TCP/IP.

tcp/ip: a set of protocols PCs use to communicate over a network.

browser: an application that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the World Wide Web.

Chapter 5: Setting Up the Wireless-N Access Point

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Overview

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Linksys WAP4400N manual Setting Up the Wireless-N Access Point, Accessing the Utility

WAP4400N specifications

The Linksys WAP4400N is a robust wireless access point that caters to small and medium-sized businesses looking for reliability and enhanced wireless coverage. This device combines advanced networking technologies with a user-friendly design, making it a versatile addition to any network infrastructure.

At the heart of the WAP4400N is its adherence to the IEEE 802.11n wireless networking standard, which provides significantly improved speed and range compared to its predecessors. By utilizing multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) technology, the WAP4400N can transmit and receive multiple data streams simultaneously, which boosts the overall data throughput and extends the wireless coverage area, making it ideal for larger spaces.

One of the standout features of the WAP4400N is its dual-band capability. It operates seamlessly across both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, allowing for greater flexibility and reduced interference. This dual-band functionality enables users to optimize their wireless environment by assigning less congested channels, which is particularly useful in densely populated areas where multiple wireless networks compete for bandwidth.

The WAP4400N also boasts comprehensive security features. It supports WPA2 encryption, ensuring that data transmissions remain secure against unauthorized access. Additionally, it offers MAC address filtering and the option to create a guest network, allowing businesses to provide internet access to visitors without compromising the security of their main network.

Installation and configuration of the WAP4400N are straightforward, thanks to its web-based interface and guided setup wizard. The access point is equipped with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability, which simplifies deployment by allowing the device to receive power through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for additional power adapters or outlets.

For monitoring network performance, the WAP4400N includes advanced features such as traffic prioritization and bandwidth management. These features allow administrators to allocate bandwidth to critical applications, ensuring optimal performance for essential business operations.

In summary, the Linksys WAP4400N is an excellent choice for businesses seeking a powerful and efficient wireless access point. With its advanced wireless technologies, strong security features, and ease of management, it effectively meets the demands of modern networking environments, providing reliability and speed that users can trust.