The information in this manual is subject to change without notice. BeWAN systems cannot be held liable for any partial non-compliance between this manual and the product which it describes, nor for any accidental damage resulting from the use of the above. The manual provided is protected by Copyright law, and may neither be copied nor distributed in any way for any purpose. Use of the documentation is intended for private use only. Any total or partial representation or reproduction requires the approval of the author or of the latter’s legal successors. Commercial use is strictly forbidden. Violation of these regulations may result in prosecution by law and any prosecuted persons being held financially liable for any inconvenience and loss to the Copyright owner. Copyright 2003, BeWAN systems. All rights reserved. October 2003 edition. Similarly, the product names indicated in this manual for identification purposes may be commercial brands, registered or not by their respective companies.
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Table of contents Foreword.................................................................................................... 5 Box contents .........................................................................................................................5 Knowledge required .............................................................................................................6 Technical assistance .............................................................................................................6 Usage precautions.................................................................................................................6 Location .......................................................................................................................................6 Upkeep and maintenance.............................................................................................................6
Main technical characteristics ..............................................................................................7 Indicator lights and rear panel of the Access Point ..............................................................8 Indicator lights.............................................................................................................................8 Rear panel....................................................................................................................................8
Installing the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54.......................................................... 9 Positioning the Access Point ................................................................................................9 Connection............................................................................................................................9 Access to the Web interface ...............................................................................................10
Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 ................................................... 12 "Primary Setup" tab ............................................................................................................12 "System" tab .......................................................................................................................18 Modification of administration password..................................................................................18 Restoring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 to its factory settings..........................................................19 Saving a configuration...............................................................................................................19 Restoring a configuration ..........................................................................................................19 Upgrading the firmware ............................................................................................................20
"Operating Mode" tab.........................................................................................................21 Access Point (Server) mode .......................................................................................................22 The Roaming principle...............................................................................................................24 Repeater mode ...........................................................................................................................26 Bridge mode ...............................................................................................................................28
"Status" tab .........................................................................................................................30 "Advanced Setup" tab.........................................................................................................31 "Access Control" tab..................................................................................................................31 "Advanced Wireless" tab............................................................................................................32
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Configuring the computers .................................................................... 34 With Windows 98 and Me..................................................................................................34 With Windows 2000...........................................................................................................36 With Windows XP..............................................................................................................38
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Foreword The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 access point provides users with simple, rapid and secure access to a wireless LAN network, allowing them to connect to the Internet or work in a room without a wired network connection. The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 provides you with a fast connection of up to 54 Mbps with other equipment using the 802.11g standard, and remains compatible with the 802.11b standard. The access point also provides you with security (encryption function ensuring the integrity of the data transferred with wireless clients and checking of remote Wireless equipment’s MAC address) and other improved functions, without compromising its interoperability with all 802.11 or 802.11b wireless LAN equipment (allowing communication with equipment produced by other manufacturers) and wired, Ethernet-type networks. This Access Point (or AP), can be used to link up Stations (clients: laptop or desktop computers with a Wireless USB adapter or card) and the wired network. By interconnecting different Wireless devices, it acts as a bridge and its role can be compared to that of a hub or switch in a cable environment. Note: in order to optimise traffic, you are advised to limit the number of users to ten. It is also possible to install and link several Access Points together in a network, to increase the number of users and the operating range. Within the company, it is then possible to move around freely, without interrupting the connection (Roaming function). The wireless network (WLAN or Wireless LAN) uses radio waves and provides wireless access to all network resources and services within the company, in one or several buildings.
Box contents In addition to the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, guaranteed for 3 years, the box must contain the following basic elements:
Power supply cable
Quick Installation Guide
RJ45 Ethernet cable
BeWAN Wi-Fi CD-ROM
You should also find: • 1 external antenna to be screwed onto the Access Point, • a warranty registration card
Note: should any of these elements be missing or damaged, contact your retailer or the BeWAN systems client services.
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Knowledge required Prior knowledge of telecommunications is not necessary when using the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54. In the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 documentation, we assume that you are already familiar with the Windows user interface, commands and utilities. We will therefore not go over these points. If necessary, please refer to the Windows manual or the Windows on-line help.
Technical assistance The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 and its documentation are designed to be as simple as possible, so that they can be used not only by professionals but also by the individual user at home. Before proceeding with the installation of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, we recommend that you register your product on the BeWAN systems web site (http://www.bewan.com). It is essential if you would like to enjoy the benefits of the after-sale service. Follow the step-by-step instructions in this User’s guide. If a problem arises during the installation or configuration of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, refer to the instructions provided on the warranty card. Note: for information about the BeWAN systems technical assistance service, or to obtain product upgrades, consult the BeWAN systems web site.
Usage precautions Carefully read the following safety instructions before installing or using the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54. The usage instructions must be followed exactly.
Location •
Avoid using, placing or storing the Access Point in areas that are exposed to intense light or high temperatures, or close to sources of heat. Maximum temperature must not exceed 40°C (104°F).
•
Avoid installing the Access Point in a humid or dusty area.
•
Keep the Access Point in a secure and stable location.
•
Keep the Access Point out of the reach of children.
Upkeep and maintenance •
Do not open, disassemble or modify any part of the Access Point. Internal inspections, modifications and repairs must imperatively be carried out by accredited and qualified technicians. Opening the Access Point or any internal modification will void the warranty.
•
Before cleaning the Access Point, disconnect its power supply.
•
When cleaning the Access Point, do not use certain chemical products which could damage plastic materials. Do not use substances containing alcohol, benzene, paint thinner or other flammable products.
•
Do not bring the Access Point into contact with water or other liquids. No liquid must get inside the Access Point. If the outside of the unit comes into contact with a liquid, wipe it using a soft and absorbent cloth.
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Main technical characteristics INTERFACE LAN
One 10/100 Ethernet port, Cable detection (MDI/MDI-X). 3 LEDs: POWER, WLAN, LAN 3 dBi gain, RSMA connector, adjustable and detachable Reset to default setting (hold the reset button for 10 seconds) • •
Indicator lights Antenna Reset button RADIO Standards Frequency bands Channels used Modulations
Media access protocol Output power Receiver sensitivity Data Rates
IEEE 802.11g and 802.11b 2,412 ~ 2,497 GHz Europe and metropolitan France: 1-13 802.11b: CCK (11 Mbps & 5,5 Mbps); DQPSK (2 Mbps); DBPSK (1 Mbps). 802.11g: OFDM CSMA/CA with ACK 15 dBm ± 1 -80 dBm at 11 Mbps; -65dBm at 54 Mbps 802.11b: 11, 5.5, 2, 1 Mbps 802.11g: 54 , 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6 Mbps Auto fallback (*) The performances depend on environment and distance.
SOFTWARE Management Operation modes Support
Security
Protocols OTHERS Dimensions / Weight Power supply
Web interface, SNMP Server / Repeater / Bridge / Multi-bridge • DHCP client, • Roaming function, • Basic Rate Setting, • Wireless Distribution System (WDS), • Configuration Backup/Restore, • Firmware upgrade available on www.bewan.com. • WEP (64/128 bits) and WPA (TKIP and AES algorithms) encryption, • MAC address filter, • Enable/Disable SSID Broadcast. TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, NetBEUI 142 x 101 x 36,9 mm (LxWxH) / 330 g Input: AC 100~240 V; 0.35 A; 50~60 Hz Output: DC 4.7~5.3 V; 2 A
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Indicator lights and rear panel of the Access Point Indicator lights Indicator lights, situated on the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, show the status of the Access Point and connections. Indicator name
Colour of indicator
Red
Green
Orange
Status
Description
Off
Access Point is switched off
On
Access Point is switched on
Off
The product is switched off
Blinks
Data is being sent or received via the Wireless network
Off
The Ethernet cable is not connected
On
The Ethernet connection is established and data sent or received via the wired network
Rear panel •
The RESET button relaunches the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 and re-establishes the original parameters. You have only to press and hold the button for about 10 seconds. Note: this is useful if, for example, you have forgotten your password. However, reinitialising the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 clears your customised parameters.
•
The Ethernet RJ45 (NETWORK) port is used to connect your PC, a hub or a switch. Note: thanks to the cable auto-detection system, you don’t have to use a straight cable to connect the Access Point to a hub.
•
The connector for the power cable provides the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 with its power supply. Warning: only use the adapter provided in the packaging.
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Installing the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 This chapter contains a detailed description of the installation procedure for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54. We recommend that you follow the installation steps in order. The equipment installation involves no more than choosing an appropriate location, connecting the power cable and the Ethernet cable. You must then interconnect the Wireless hardware. Before beginning, deactivate any software that might disrupt the installation procedure, such as anti-virus products. Close all open applications.
Positioning the Access Point 1. Choose the site for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54. The positioning of the Access Point(s) is very important. The network coverage and performances depend on the positioning of the Access Point. To optimise performances and obtain better signal quality, we recommend you position the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 in a high position, in the centre of the zone covered. Note: the nature of the walls, partitions and ceilings greatly affect the network’s quality and performances. Before deciding permanently on the positioning, we recommend you carry out several tests to check the strength and quality of the signal, whilst moving around the planned coverage zone. These tests will allow you to determine the best position for the Access Point. Unlike a wired network, the bandwidth varies according to distance. The smaller the zone covered, the better the performances. Note: microwave ovens radiate in the 2.4 GHz range and are thus a possible source of interference. The units should therefore be as far as possible from such appliances. 2. Adjust the antenna. Position the antenna in order to obtain the maximum signal strength for your wireless equipment. Note: the supplied antenna can also be replaced with another one that uses the same connectors.
Connection To connect the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, proceed as follows: 1. Locate the power cable included in the package. Connect the appropriate end of the cable to the connector on the back of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54. Connect the other end to a power outlet that is compatible with the specifications printed on the power unit. The red light should light up when the unit has power. Note: powering the Access Point with a different voltage would damage the product and invalidate the warranty.
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2. If you have an Ethernet card, locate the Ethernet cable provided in the package. Connect one end to the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s RJ45 Ethernet port and the other end to your computer (or an Ethernet hub or switch). The light will light up if the connection is correct.
Access to the Web interface After the physical installation, the configuration of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 requires that you access and use the HTML interface via your computer’s browser (Microsoft® Internet Explorer, for example). The default IP address of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 is 192.168.1.1250 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. To access the HTML interface, you must give your computer a static IP address that falls within the same subnet as the IP address of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 (example: IP address of 192.168.1.10 with the same mask). To configure your computer, refer to the chapter “Configuring the computers” on page 34.
Note: if you don’t have an Ethernet card, you can still configure the Access Point via the Wi-Fi network. To do so, in your Wi-Fi card’s properties, you must provide an IP address that is compatible with the Access Point’s default IP address. Configure your Wi-Fi hardware in Infrastructure mode, then connect to the Access Point, the default SSID of which is BeWANAP54.
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To access the Access Point’s HTML interface, proceed as follows: 1. Launch your Internet browser. 2. In the browser’s Address box, enter the default IP address for the Access Point, then press Enter. Note: by default, the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s default IP is “192.168.1.250”.
3. Your browser should automatically find the Access Point. A dialogue box asks you for the name and password of the Access Point’s administrator. By default, these parameters are the following: •
User name: admin
•
Password: admin
Notes: •
When you enter your login details, you should be careful to use the correct case and differentiate between capital and lower case characters.
•
For obvious security reasons, we strongly recommend that you change the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s administrator password. To do this, refer to the section “Modification of administration password” on page 18.
4. Once you have entered these parameters, click on OK. 5. Once the connection is established, the Web interface appears.
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Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 If you make any modifications to the Access Point configuration, click each time on Apply to validate the new parameters.
"Primary Setup" tab The Primary Setup tab shows the Access Point’s current parameters (Access Point name, IP parameters, MAC Address, SSID, channel used, security activation or not).
LAN Section MAC Address: This address is useful, notably when you configure the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 in "AP Repeater" or "Wireless Bridge" mode. You should always enter the LAN MAC address of the remote Access Point in your settings to allow the connection to be established.
Configuration type: By default, the Static IP Address option is selected. The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 has the following default IP address: 192.168.1.250. However, if the existing network already has a DHCP server (DHCP Server activated on a router for example), you may request the automatic attribution of an IP address for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 from the server. Select the option Dynamic IP setting. Putting the Access Point into the same address plan as your network allows you to access the administration pages at any time, without having to modify the IP address of one of your computers.
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IP Address and Subnet Mask: Represents the IP address for the Access Point and the corresponding subnet mask. You can change these if necessary. The IP address should be unique on the network. For example, if you connect two Access Points ("Wireless Bridge" mode), the default IP addresses will be identical, and you will therefore need to alter the IP address of one of the two Access Points to avoid an IP conflict. Note: the IP address of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 is only needed to access the Access Point’s administration pages. If you have a network with another addressing plan, the connection will still be established. However, if you don’t want to change your computer’s IP address every time the Access Point’s configuration is modified, we suggest that you modify these IP parameters.
Gateway: If you want to administer the Access Point remotely, for example, enter your Internet proxy’s IP address
Wireless Section Mode: The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 uses the IEEE 802.11g standard but is also compatible with the 802.11b standard. •
If you select the 11g Only option, only connections with 802.11g connections can be established.
•
If you select the 11b+g option, this means that, as well as 802.11g devices, 802.11b devices can also be connected to the Access Point.
SSID: Represents the value used to identify the Access Point on the wireless network. The SSID allows the Access Points and client stations on the same network to recognise each other. When you connect two Access Points, you should ensure they have the same SSID. When a client station wants to connect to the Access Point ("Infrastructure" mode), it needs only to scan the wireless network and select the device to which it wants to connect, from those visible. By default, the SSID is BeWANAP54. For security reasons, we recommend that you change this SSID when installing the Access Point. It can contain up to 32 characters and is case-sensitive.
SSID Broadcast: This function allows you to mask the SSID for the wireless network. If you select Disable, the Access Point will not be visible. To connect to it, the client station must know the Access Point’s SSID and must specify it in its configuration. This is a security measure.
Channel: Select the frequency on which the stations should communicate. Channels used: channels 1 to 13 for mainland France and Europe. In "Access Point" mode, the Access Point sets the connection channel. In “AP Repeater” mode or “Wireless Bridge” mode, the frequency selected must be the same for the connection to work between the two devices.
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Security: One of the major aspects of the wireless network is its security. For obvious reasons, wireless connections are easy to intercept. It is therefore strongly recommended that you activate this parameter. The objective is to allow a level of data confidentiality equivalent to wired networks and thus increase the reliability of the transmission of the data packets. Data encryption helps to ensure the security of data transmissions. Click on the Enable option, then the Configure Security button to access the security parameters. The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 offers 3 types of security: WEP WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is a mechanism for identifying users. Data transmission is secured between the Access Point and a client station (or router) or between two Access Points using an encryption key. Without encrypting, anyone in the network coverage zone could intercept and decode other people’s data. This key is sufficient for domestic use. The WEP key is static. To modify it, a manual intervention is required. You should proceed as follows: 1. In the Security Mode section, select WEP. 2. In the Default Transmit Key section, select the key to be used. You can enter four keys, but only one can be selected. The hexadecimal numbering system is used. Note: in hexadecimal format, your characters can only include "a-f", "A-F" and "0-9". For example, a 64 bits WEP key in Hexadecimal mode could be as follows: 11AA22BB33 3. In the WEP Encryption section, select the level of encryption (corresponding to the length of the key): 64 bits 10 hex digits or 128 bits 26 hex digits. We recommend you use the highest level of encryption. Use of WEP keys: •
64 bit WEP key: enter 10 hexadecimal figures.
•
128 bit WEP key: enter 26 hexadecimal figures.
4. Next enter your WEP key. You can set the WEP key in two ways: •
Manually. Enter a WEP key in the Key x section (corresponding to the key number selected).
•
Automatically. You ask the computer to produce encryption keys automatically, by choosing a word or phrase (e.g. "bewan") in the Passphrase section. Then click on Generate for the keys to be created automatically. This facilitates the setting and saving process for the keys.
Note: WEP uses a secret key. For the Access Point to be able to dialogue with a client station or a second Access Point, the Access Point and remote device use the same encryption key. Caution: this key is stored unencrypted on the Access Point.
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It is particularly important to make a careful note of the result obtained, to be able to configure your Wireless cards or another Access Point. Activate WEP on each card or Access Point, then enter the key entered into the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, and the link will be established between your cards and the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 (obviously, when you activated WEP encryption on the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, the link to the cards was lost).
Manual key
Automatically generated key
5. Click on Apply. 6. The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 will acknowledge this new parameter. Click on Continue.
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WPA Pre-Shared Key WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) is a security protocol designed to replace the current WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) for Wi-Fi links which use static keys, which must be changed manually. WPA uses different data encryption protocols (or algorithms): •
TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol): instead of using a set key to encode the data packets, it regularly generates new dynamic keys derived from the main key, providing increased security. Note: all existing devices can benefit by simply upgrading the software used.
•
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard): this is a symmetrical algorithm for block encoding. It operates using 128 bit blocks. This block encryption provides a greater level of security. Caution: this requires the use of a dedicated chip. It is therefore not possible to upgrade existing equipment. Its compatibility remains limited to devices fitted with this chip.
You should proceed as follows: 1. In the Security Mode section, select WPA Pre-Shared Key. 2. In the WPA Algorithms section, select TKIP or AES. 3. Then enter your key value. This key should contain between 8 and 63 characters. 4. If you wish, you can also modify the key expiry period. By default, the value is 300 seconds.
5. Click on Apply for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 to acknowledge this new parameter. Click on Continue.
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WPA RADIUS To control access to the wireless network efficiently, the identification function can be carried out using an identification server such as RADIUS. The use of a RADIUS server allows access to be protected as much as possible by identifying users after having defined their profile. This key allows users to be identified by the server and to access the network. You should proceed as follows: 1. In the Security Mode section, select WPA RADIUS. 2. In the WPA Algorithms section, select TKIP or AES. 3. Next enter the IP address of your RADIUS server to connect the Access Point with the server. 4. Enter the RADIUS server port. Note: the 1812 destination port, present by default, corresponds to the standard RADIUS port. If you alter this, you should make sure it is also altered on the server. 5. Enter the shared secret password exchanged between the server and the RADIUS client. Ask your RADIUS for the password if you do not know it. The password should be identical on the RADIUS server and the Access Point. 6. If you wish, you can also modify the key expiry period. By default, this value is set to 300 seconds.
7. Click on Apply for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 to acknowledge this new parameter. Click on Continue.
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"System" tab
Modification of administration password The network administrator can change the password allowing access to the configuration of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54. In the factory settings, as seen previously, this parameter is as follows: •
Password: admin
For security reasons, we strongly recommend that you change your administration password. To modify this parameter, you should proceed as follows: 1. In the first section, enter the new password of your choice. 2. Confirm this password by re-entering it in the section below. Caution: •
Choose a password you will remember easily. If you forget it, you will no longer be able to access your settings. You will then have to “reset” the device by pressing the button on the back of the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, thus losing all the elements of your current configuration.
•
When you enter your administrator login details, it is important to respect the correct case used (capitals/lower case).
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3. Click on Apply to validate your new identification parameter. 4. In the following window, enter the password you have chosen, then click on OK. You will then have access to the Web configuration. This shows that your new administrator login has been acknowledged.
Restoring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 to its factory settings If you restore the Access Point to its factory settings, you will lose the current settings and therefore your personalised parameters. You should proceed as follows: 1. Select the Yes option. 2. Click on Apply to validate. The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 will restart. 3. Click on Continue.
Saving a configuration You have the possibility of backing up your complete configuration (by creating a .bin file). You should proceed as follows: 1. Click on the Backup Setting button. 2. You must then save the backup file on your disk. Indicate the location of the .bin file you wish to save, renaming it if necessary, then click on Save. 3. The file is now saved.
Restoring a configuration If you wish to update your BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 using a .bin file, into a configuration previously saved (see previous section), you should proceed as follows: 1. Click on the Restore Setting button. 2. In the File Path section, give the access path to the .bin file concerned. To find this, click on the Browse… button. 3. Once the file has been selected, click on Open. 4. Then click on Restore. The saved file is sent to the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54.
5. Then click on Continue.
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Upgrading the firmware You should proceed as follows: 1. Click on the Firmware Upgrade button. 2. In the Firmware Upgrade window, click on Browse… to enter the access path to the upgrade file. 3. Then click on the Upgrade button to load the upgrade file into the memory of the BeWAN WiFi AP54.
4. A message informs you that the upgrade has been completed. Click on Continue.
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"Operating Mode" tab To use the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, there are several types of configuration. Each configuration has specific parameters, and a different number of Access Points to be used. Once the mode is selected, enter the parameters required to run the Access Point.
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Access Point (Server) mode This mode, selected by default, connects the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 to the wired network infrastructure and a group of wireless client stations. The user connects to the Access Point, which serves as the link between the wired network and the client station. Several users can connect to the same Access Point, which manages the exchanges between the various stations. To connect to the wireless network, the user has only to be in the Access Point’s reception area. The network radius is easily identifiable, as the Access Point is fixed. For mobile users, workstations can be moved around with no problem, within the cell covered by the Access Point, without loss of connection. In this case, wireless users can communicate with each other, but also with users of the wired network through the Access Point. Within a company setting, this is very useful for accessing services provided by the wired LAN (file servers, printers, Internet access). Standard configuration diagram:
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Configuration parameters for establishing a connection: Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54: •
The Access Point must be configured in "Access Point" mode.
•
Determine the communication channel on the Access Point, i.e. the frequency on which the wireless devices will communicate (Reminder: frequencies 1 to 13 used in mainland France and in Europe).
Configuring the wireless client stations: •
Each client station must be configured in "Infrastructure" mode to detect and connect to the Access Point.
•
Each client station must scan the SSIDs available to then make the connection.
You should also ensure that: •
A compatible transmission rate is used. For example: if you wish to connect a 802.11b wireless device to the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, do not select the 11g Only option on the Primary Setup tab.
•
The same security parameters (same key) are entered for the wireless devices forming your network, to allow the connection to be established. The security must also be activated on both sides. Refer to the Security section, “"Primary Setup" tab” on page 12 of the “Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54” chapter.
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The Roaming principle With the “Roaming” function, the transmission is commuted automatically from one radio cell to the next, whether in different conference rooms, a multi-storey building or even a large site. The distance between the different Access Points must be adapted individually to each building and depends heavily on their method of construction. When the user moves around from one Access Point to another, he/she connects simultaneously and immediately to the Access Point whose signal is the strongest. The principle is the same for GSM. Mobile users have the possibility of moving from one Access Point to another without losing their network access. Between two Access Points interconnected by radio waves, the client station moves around and chooses the Access Point with the strongest signal fort. This mode allows the coverage of the wireless network to be extended. Standard configuration diagram:
Configuration parameters: Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54: •
The Access Points must have the same SSID.
•
The Access Points must be configured in "Access Point" mode.
•
The Access Points must have different IP addresses. The default IP address for the BeWAN WiFi AP54 is 192.168.1.250 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. It is essential that you modify the IP address of one of the two Access Points.
•
Select the same channel for all Access Points, i.e. the frequency on which they will communicate (Reminder: frequencies 1 to 13 used in mainland France and in Europe).
•
The Access Points must use the same transmission rate.
•
The Access Points must have the same security parameters (same key) for connections to be made if the security settings are activated. Refer to the Security section, “"Primary Setup" tab”, on page 12 of the “Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54” chapter.
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Configuring wireless client stations: •
Each client station must be configured in "Infrastructure" mode to detect and connect to the Access Point.
•
There is no need to select a channel. The client station will be configured automatically to the channel set on the Access Points.
•
Each station must use the same transmission rate.
•
Each station must have the same security parameters as the Access Points.
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Repeater mode The BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 Repeater mode allows you to extend your wireless network’s range when the Access Point’s coverage area is not sufficient to connect users who are too far away, though without using an Ethernet cable. The second Access Point configured in "AP Repeater" mode is used to amplify the signal and extend the coverage zone to allow all users to connect to the wireless network. It does not need a LAN link. A power supply and an antenna are sufficient, with the most important point being that the Access Point should be situated in an intermediary zone between the two Wireless devices to allow them to communicate. Through the Wireless Distribution System (WDS), this mode combines the Server and Bridge functions, to extend the coverage zone. Standard configuration diagram:
Configuration parameters:
Configuring Access Point 1: •
Access Point 1 should be configured in "Access Point" mode. This will allow it to connect to the second Access Point but also to accept the client station connections.
Configuring Access Point 2: •
Access Point 2 should be configured in "AP Repeater" mode to connect to Access Point 1, configured in "Access Point" mode.
•
Access Point 2 must know the MAC LAN address of Access Point 1.
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You should also ensure: •
That each Access Point has a different IP address. The default IP address for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 is 192.168.1.250 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. Ensure that the IP address of one of the Access Points is modified.
•
That a compatible transmission rate is used. For example: if you wish to connect a 802.11b wireless device to the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, do not select the 11g Only option in the Basic settings tab.
•
That the same channel is selected on both Access Points, i.e. the frequency on which they will communicate (Reminder: frequencies 1 to 13 used in mainland France and in Europe).
•
That the same security parameters are entered (same key) on the wireless devices forming your network, to allow the connection to be established. The security option should also be activated on both sides. Refer to the Security section, “"Primary Setup" tab” on page 12 of the “Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54” chapter.
Note: the SSID parameter may be different for the two Access Points as identification is carried out by the MAC LAN address of the remote Access Point. Configuration of wireless client stations: •
Each client station should be configured in "Infrastructure" mode to detect and connect to the remote Access Point configured in "Access Point" mode (Access Point 1).
•
There is no need to select a channel. The client station will set itself automatically to the channel set on the Access Points.
•
Each station must use the same transmission rate.
•
Each station must have the same security parameters as the Access Points.
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Bridge mode This mode involves connecting Access Points to each other and only to each other. They identify each other using their MAC address and are no longer accessible by the rest of the network. The term “Bridge” mode is used when two Access Points are linked, and “Multi-bridge” mode when at least three are used to form the wireless network. This mode allows wired networks to be linked. For the connection to work, the configuration parameters must be the same on all the Access Points. Standard configuration diagram:
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Configuring BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54s: •
The Access Points should be configured in "Wireless Bridge" mode.
•
Each Access Point should know the MAC LAN address (or MAC LAN addresses if the wireless network includes more than two Access Points) of the remote Access Point. Note: the SSID parameter may be different for the two Access Points, as identification is carried out using the MAC LAN address of the remote Access Point.
•
The Access Points should have different IP addresses. The default IP address for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 is 192.168.1.250 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. You should therefore ensure that the IP address of the other Access Points is modified.
•
Select the same channel for the Access Points, i.e. the frequency on which they are to communicate (Reminder: frequencies 1 to 13 used in mainland France and in Europe).
•
The Access Points must use the same transmission rate.
•
If you wish to activate the security feature, ensure that the Access Points have the same parameters (same key) to allow the connection to be established. Refer to the Security section, “"Primary Setup" tab” on page 12 of the “Configuring the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54” chapter.
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"Status" tab The Status tab shows the current characteristics of the Access Point (IP parameters, MAC address, SSID, channel used, security activation or not) as well as the status of your Wireless network (display of the MAC addresses of the Wireless stations connected, as well as their time of connection). This information is read-only. The page is refreshed every 10 seconds. You can, however, refresh the information by clicking on the Refresh button.
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"Advanced Setup" tab "Access Control" tab In addition to the encryption methods (refer to the Security section, “"Primary Setup" tab” on page 12), the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54 is equipped with a very useful security device – controlling the MAC addresses of the remote wireless devices (Wireless client stations or other Access Points). It allows you to block or allow certain computers to access the Access Point by MAC address. The MAC address is the physical identification feature of a card. This address is unique. Whilst this solution is complicated to manage, as there are many access cards in existence, it limits the risk of intrusions. 1. Select the Enable option, then enter the MAC addresses of the remote wireless devices for which you wish to refuse or allow access. Note: •
If you select Deny wireless connection to join the unit from the list without indicating an address in the table, this will be taken to mean that you accept all devices on your wireless network.
•
If you select Allow wireless connection to join the unit from the list, without indicating the table address, this is the same as not allowing wireless network access in any circumstances.
2. Once established, click on Apply to back up the settings and validate the configuration.
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"Advanced Wireless" tab These Web-style configuration pages allow you to adjust the tool to your working environment by altering fairly subtle configuration details. For example, you can adjust transmission speed, data levels, the fragmentation limit and the beacon interval. Carry out any modifications to the Access Point configuration, then click on Apply to validate the new parameters.
Authentication Type: Defines the configuration options for wireless network sharing, in order to verify the identity and access privileges of wireless network cards. This consists of validating a user or system, prior to communication. It is possible to choose between Open system, Shared key and Auto. •
Open system: Open system identification is the simplest of the identification algorithms available. It is an algorithm which requires no verification. Any station requiring identification with this algorithm will be identified if the receiver station’s identification type is set to receive open system identification. This identification method allows all wireless devices to communicate with each other.
•
Shared key: Identification is made using the WEP network key to identify the remote wireless device. If the remote device uses an incorrect key, or no key, the user is refused access. Shared key identification prevents unauthorised devices from connecting to your equipment.
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Transmission rates: Basic transmission speed must be set according to the speed of your wireless network. Transfer speed can be set between 1 Mbps and 54 Mbps.
RTS/CTS: This is a specific channel control technique using call packet exchange. This technique can be activated or deactivated. Before sending a data packet, the source station sends a special RTS call packet to its destination. If the packet is received correctly by the destination station, it responds with a CTS packet. If the source station receives this packet correctly, it can take control at the end of the CTS transmission and send its data packet. If received correctly, the destination station confirms that the packet has been correctly forwarded to its recipient. If there is a failure in the transmission of the RTS or CTS or no delivery receipt is received, the entire procedure must be restarted.
Beacon Interval: When a station wants to access an existing wireless network (following start-up, standby or simply by entering the cell geographically), the station trying to connect requires synchronisation information from the Access Point. The station simply waits to receive a beacon frame. The beacon frame is a frame sent periodically by the Access Point to synchronise the wireless network. This section allows the time interval to be determined between each beacon.
RTS Threshold: This field allows you to specify the size of the packet which is used to invoke the RTS/CTS mechanism, governing the packet exchange. It should be noted that each station can set a different level. RTS/CTS adds a "handshake" before each transmission of packets to ensure the channel is free. This increases performance levels in the event of hidden nodes or a large number of active nodes. Enter a value between 256 et 2432. It is preferable to keep the default value.
Fragmentation Threshold: This field is used to specify the fragmentation level over which packets are to be fragmented. Fragmentation allows an IP packet to be broken down into a series of smaller fragments. This parameter sets the maximum fragmentation size. Select a value between 256 and 2346. It is preferable to keep the default value. If the fragmentation level is too low, performance will be affected.
DTIM Interval: This value represents the DTIM (Delivery Traffic Indication Message) message interval. A DTIM zone is a count zone informing customers of the following window for listening to diffusion and multidiffusion messages. When the Access Point has recorded diffusion or multidiffusion messages in its buffer memory for associated clients, it sends the following DTIM with an interval of DTIM. The Access Point’s clients hear the beacon signals and wake up to receive the diffusion and multidiffusion messages.
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Configuring the computers This chapter allows you to verify the configuration of your computer to access the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’ web interface. To configure the Access Point which has a default IP address 192.168.1.250 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, you should assign your computer a static IP address within the addressing plan. In this section, we describe the configuration for computers using the following operating systems: Windows 98/Me, Windows 2000 and Windows XP. Note: here, we assume that the computers have Ethernet cards and that the TCP/IP protocol is already installed. For questions relative to the installation and operation of Ethernet cards, refer to the documentation provided by the card manufacturers.
With Windows 98 and Me To assign your computer a fixed IP address compatible with the Access Point addressing plan and thus access the Web interface, you should proceed as follows: 1. Click on Start, then point to Settings, and then click on Control Panel. Then double-click on the Network icon. 2. In the group The following network components are installed, select TCP/IP -> name of your network card, then click on Properties.
3. In the IP Address tab in the TCP/IP Properties window, select the option Specify an IP address.
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4. In the IP Address section, enter the IP address that you have decided to assign to the PC. Important: •
The PC’s IP address must imperatively fall within the same addressing range as the one used by the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54.
•
The PC’s IP address must be unique, i.e. different from the ones used by other devices present on the local network (other computers, BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, router…).
•
The PC’s IP address must fall into a range reserved for private networks. Indeed, your local network must not use addresses that are reserved for the Internet. This would cause problems when connecting your network to the Internet.
In case of uncertainty regarding these points, check with a network specialist. 5. In the Subnet Mask section, enter the PC’s default subnet mask value, i.e. “255.255.255.0”.
In the above example, the IP address and subnet mask assigned to the PC are compatible with the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s default IP parameters (Reminder: by default, the IP address for the Access Point is: 192.168.1.250). 6. Click on OK in each window to validate the modifications. 7. You should then restart your computer by clicking on Yes.
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With Windows 2000 To assign your computer a fixed IP address compatible with the Access Point’s addressing plan and thus access the Web interface, you should proceed as follows: 1. Click on Start, then point to Settings, and then click on Control Panel. Then double-click on the Network and Dial-up Connections icon. 2. With the right mouse button, click on Local Area Connection and select Properties in the menu. 3. Select the element Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), then click on Properties.
4. Select Use the following IP address. 5. In the IP address section, enter the IP address that you have decided to assign to the PC. Important: •
The PC’s IP address must imperatively fall within the same addressing range as the one used by the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54.
•
The PC’s IP address must be unique, i.e. different from the ones used by other devices present on the local network (other computers, BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, router…).
•
The PC’s IP address must fall into a range reserved for private networks. Indeed, your local network must not use addresses that are reserved for the Internet. This would cause problems when connecting your network to the Internet.
In case of uncertainty regarding these points, check with a network specialist.
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6. In the Subnet mask section, enter the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s default subnet mask value, i.e. “255.255.255.0”.
In the above example, the IP address and the subnet mask assigned to the PC are compatible with the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s default IP parameters (Reminder: by default, the IP address for the Access Point is: 192.168.1.250). 7. Click on OK to validate the modifications.
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With Windows XP To assign a fixed IP address to your computer, compatible with the Access Point’s addressing plan and thus access the Web interface, you should proceed as follows: 1. Click on start, then on Control Panel. 2. Click on Network and Internet Connections, then on Network Connections. 3. With the right mouse button, click on Local Area Connection and select Properties in the menu. 4. Select the element Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), then click on Properties.
5. Select Use the following IP address. 6. In the IP address section, enter the IP address that you have decided to assign to the PC. Important: •
The PC’s IP address must imperatively fall within the same addressing range as the one used by the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54.
•
The PC’s IP address must be unique, i.e. different from the ones used by other devices present on the local network (other computers, BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, router…).
•
The PC’s IP address must fall into a range reserved for private networks. Indeed, your local network must not use addresses that are reserved for the Internet. This would cause problems when connecting your network to the Internet.
In case of uncertainty regarding these points, check with a network specialist.
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7. In the Subnet mask section, enter the default corresponding subnet mask value for the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54, i.e. “255.255.255.0”.
In the above example, the IP address and subnet mask assigned to the PC are compatible with the BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54’s default IP parameters (Reminder: by default, the IP address of the Access Point is: 192.168.1.250). 8. Click on OK to validate the modifications.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY Telecommunications terminal equipment Manufacturer’s name: BeWAN systems Address: 16, rue du Moulin des Bruyères
Phone: 01 43 34 69 20
Postal code: 92400
Fax: 01 46 91 03 71
Community: Courbevoie – France Product identification Nature: Wireless Access Point (IEEE 802.11g) Commercial reference: BeWAN Wi-Fi AP54
Declares with full liability that the product described in above complies with the essential applicable demands and in particular with the R&TTE 1999/5/EC directive. The product complies with the demands defined by the Council Directive on the Approximation of the Laws of the Member States related to Electromagnetic Compatibility (89/336/EEC), the Directive on low voltage, the protection of the user’s health and safety (73/23/EEC) and the Amendment Directive (93/68/EEC). For the evaluation regarding the Directives, the following standards were applied: • • • • •
EN 300 328-1 EN 300 328-2 EN 301 489-1 EN 301 489-17 EN 60950
(december 2001) (december 2001) (august 2002) (august 2002) (january 2000)
v1.3.1 v1.2.1 v1.4.1 v1.2.1
CE: CE0560 Additional information: the product has been tested using a standard configuration. Date: october 2003
Eric TEISSANDIER Chairman of the Board of Directors
