Weidmuller WI-MOD-945-E: 900Mhz Wireless Ethernet & Device Server v2.16 - Manual (Page 56)

Weidmuller Wireless Ethernet Modem & Device Server WI-MOD-945-E User Manual
Page 56 www.weidmuller.com Rev 2.136
The WDS configuration for unit B is shown above (this page is accessible via the Repeaters link from the configuration
web pages). Site B is acting as an Access point for Site A, and is a client to Site C, likewise Site C is acting as an Access
Point for Site B, and a Client for Site D. Since this example is a bridged network i.e. all devices on the same IP network
and each link is using a different SSID, there is no possibility of loops (i.e. multiple paths to the same location) therefore
we do not need to incur the overhead of enabling STP (bridge spanning tree protocol).
We specify the devices at the other end of the WDS links by SSID only –MAC addresses can be used to specify point-to-
point links to third party devices which do not support meshing via SSID.
In this example each Virtual connection is using the same Encryption method (WPA- PSK (AES) with a key of “Pass
Phrase”, however in example #1 the Encryption method and key can be different for each virtual link or even disabled (no
encryption). Also the Spanning Tree Protocol is disabled as there is no possibility of network loops.
Example 2 - Roaming with WDS Access Points
Another common use for WDS is extending the range across a large wireless network but allowing roaming connections
between access points or being able to switch to the next Access Point when out of range of the previous Access Point.
The diagram above shows a bridging network with a number of Access Points all with the same SSID, network structure,
etc. (so as the Stations can freely roam between Access Points)
Each Access Point then needs a separate connection to the next Access Point, which is done using the WDS Virtual
Access Points and Stations
Site B is acting as a Virtual AP for Site A, which in turn is acting as a Virtual Station. At the same time Site B is also acting
as a Virtual Station for Site C which in turn is acting as a Virtual AP.
This setup can be replicated to extend the range and will allow any Roaming Stations full connectivity across the network
Figure 36 - WDS Roaming