Avoid the constant hassle of broken Internet connections with a proper wireless access point setup and installation. It is usually better to let a professional handle the job, even if you believe that you have the ability to perform a DIY installation. You never know – your needs may change or expand in the future, and the right setup may save you money when reconfiguring down the road.
Here are the basics of what you should know about wireless access point installation and setup.
Wireless Access Point Configuration Access
There are different ways to configure the point of access for clients and partners. Serial cables can connect your desktop or laptop to the console port of the wireless access point. You can also use terminal software to administrate your config screens and settings, including power transmission and radio channels. The one downside of this configuration is that it is not always the most user-friendly due to its basis in characters. You also face limitations in the physical movement of the wireless access point when you use a serial cable.
You can access your configuration screens through a consumer Internet browser by simply replacing the access point IP address for the Web page address. If your IP is within a certain range, the Internet browser gives you a better format when rendering the configuration screens.
Wireless Access Point Configuration Options
There are many changeable options on your wireless access point that should be available. The most important of these options is usually the IP address. Having the ability to apply a dynamic host configuration protocol gives you the ability to get a new IP address from a DHCP server.
You can also set the range of wireless access point radio channels to different ranges so that they do not interfere with each other. This becomes important the larger that your AV infrastructure becomes. You can use channels 1,6, and 11 to reduce conflicts in frequency over 802.11b and 802.11g networks. You may also set 802.11a wireless points to completely different channels.
Setting the transmission power gives range or saves money depending on your needs. A better range reduces costs for your customers. However, you can set your wireless access points closer together and set the power lower if you want to bolster the capacity of your partner’s network. On lower power settings, wireless signals are also limited in their ability to propagate outside a controlled area that you set, which drastically improves security.
You can also improve security by setting your service set identifier away from its default name. Unauthorized users will have a more difficult time associating with your access point. You may also completely disable SSID broadcasting. This is a great solution if you are using a Windows OS and you are unsure of the stability of the system.
Investing in an installation partner with the characteristics above will ensure efficiency in your Internet connections and streamlined upgrades in the future. Save yourself the hassle of a DIY installation – call a professional now and focus on your core competencies.
