Wireless configuration, Chapter 6 – Brocade Mobility Access Point System Reference Guide (Supporting software release 5.5.0.0 and later) User Manual
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Chapter
6
Wireless Configuration
A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a data-communications system and wireless local area
network that flexibly extends the functionality of a wired LAN. A WLAN links two or more computers
or devices using spread-spectrum or OFDM modulation based technology. WLANs do not require
lining up devices for line-of-sight transmission, and are thus, desirable for wireless networking.
Roaming users can be handed off from one access point to another, like a cellular phone system.
WLANs can therefore be configured around the needs of specific user groups, even when they are
not in physical proximity.
WLANs can provide an abundance of services, including data communications (allowing mobile
devices to access applications), E-mail, file and print services or even specialty applications (such
as guest access control and asset tracking).
Each WLAN configuration contains encryption, authentication and QoS policies and conditions for
user connections. Connected access point radios transmit periodic beacons for each BSS. A
beacon advertises the SSID, security requirements, supported data rates of the wireless network to
enable clients to locate and connect to the WLAN.
WLANs are mapped to radios on each access point. A WLAN can be advertised from a single access
point radio or can span multiple access points and radios. WLAN configurations can be defined to
provide service to specific areas of a site. For example, a guest access WLAN may only be mapped
to a 2.4 GHz radio in a lobby or conference room providing limited coverage, while a data WLAN is
mapped to all 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz radios at the branch site to provide complete coverage.
The wireless configuration is comprised of the following policies:
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FIGURE 1
Configuration > Wireless menu