Chapter 1: Introduction

The 2.4 GHz Wireless Access Point is an IEEE 802.11b/g access point that provides transparent, wireless high-speed data communications between the wired LAN and fixed or mobile devices equipped with an 802.11b, or 802.11g wireless adapter.

This solution offers fast, reliable wireless connectivity with considerable cost savings over wired LANs (which include long-term maintenance overhead for cabling). Using 802.11b and 802.11g technology, this access point can easily replace a 10 Mbps Ethernet connection or seamlessly integrate into a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet LAN.

The access point supports up to eight Virtual Access Points. This allows traffic to be separated for different user groups using an access point that services one area. For each VAP, different security settings, VLAN assignments, and other parameters can be applied.

Each radio interface on the access point can operate in one of four modes:

Access Point – Providing conectivity to wireless clients in the service area.

Repeater – Providing an extended link to a remote access point from the wired LAN. In this mode, the access point does not have a cable connection to the wired Ethernet LAN.

Bridge – Providing links to access points operating in “Bridge” or “Root Bridge” mode and thereby connecting other wired LAN segments.

Root Bridge – Providing links to other access points operating in “Bridge” mode and thereby connecting other wired LAN segments. Only one unit in the wireless bridge network can be set to “Root Bridge” mode.

In addition, the access point offers full network management capabilities through an easy to configure web interface, a command line interface for initial configuration and troubleshooting, and support for Simple Network Management Protocol tools.

Radio Characteristics – The IEEE 802.11b/g standard uses a radio modulation technique known as Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and a shared collision domain (CSMA/CA). It operates at the 2.4 GHz Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (UNII) band for connections to 802.11g clients.

IEEE 802.11g includes backward compatibility with the IEEE 802.11b standard. IEEE 802.11b also operates at 2.4 GHz, but uses Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Complementary Code Keying (CCK) modulation technology to achieve a communication rate of up to 11 Mbps.

The access point supports a 54 Mbps half-duplex connection to Ethernet networks for each active channel.

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SMC Networks SMC2552W-G2-17 manual Introduction

SMC2552W-G2-17, SMC2552W-G2 specifications

The SMC Networks SMC2552W-G2 and SMC2552W-G2-17 are advanced wireless access points designed for a range of networking environments, offering robust features suited to both home and business applications. These devices are known for their reliable performance, making them a popular choice for those seeking to enhance network connectivity and coverage.

One of the primary features of the SMC2552W-G2 is its dual-band capability, operating on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This versatility allows users to take advantage of the high capacity of the 5 GHz band, which is less congested and ideal for activities that require substantial bandwidth, such as streaming and online gaming. The 2.4 GHz band, on the other hand, provides better penetration through walls and is more suitable for basic browsing and mobile device connectivity.

Another significant characteristic is the device's support for the 802.11n Wi-Fi standard, which enables data rates of up to 300 Mbps. This standard ensures a fast and stable wireless connection, facilitating a seamless online experience for multiple devices simultaneously. The integration of MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology further enhances the performance, allowing for multiple data streams to be transmitted and received, significantly increasing throughput and range.

The SMC2552W-G2 series also boasts advanced security features, including WPA/WPA2 encryption and support for 802.1X authentication. These security protocols provide robust protection against unauthorized access and ensure that data transmitted over the network remains secure.

In terms of management, these access points offer both web-based and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) interfaces, enabling users to easily configure and monitor the network settings. This user-friendly interface simplifies the process of overseeing network performance and troubleshooting issues when they arise.

The SMC2552W-G2 and SMC2552W-G2-17 are designed for easy installation, whether as stand-alone units or as part of a larger network. Their compact design allows for flexible mounting options, making them suitable for various environments.

In summary, the SMC Networks SMC2552W-G2 and SMC2552W-G2-17 provide an excellent combination of speed, security, and ease of management, making them ideal solutions for enhancing wireless connectivity in both home and office settings. Their dual-band functionality, compliance with the latest Wi-Fi standards, and comprehensive security measures ensure a reliable and efficient networking experience.