Proxim AP-4000 - Manual (Page 63)

Advanced Configuration AP-4000 Series User Guide
Interfaces
63
Bridging WDS
Each WDS link is mapped to a logical WDS port on the AP. WDS ports behave like Ethernet ports rather than like
standard wireless interfaces: on a BSS port, an Access Point learns by association and from frames; on a WDS or
Ethernet port, an Access Point learns from frames only. When setting up a WDS, keep in mind the following:
• WDS and Mesh functionality cannot be enabled on the same radio when the AP is configured to function as a Mesh
AP.
• There are separate security settings for clients and WDS links. The same WDS link security mode must be configured
(currently we only support none or WEP) on each Access Point in the WDS and the same WEP key must be
configured.
• The WDS link shares the communication bandwidth with the clients. Therefore, while the maximum data rate for the
Access Point's cell is 54 Mbits/second (802.11a, 802.11g only, or 802.b/g modes) or 11 Mbits/second (802.11b only
mode), client throughput will decrease when the WDS link is active.
• If there is no partner MAC address configured in the WDS table, the WDS port remains disabled.
• Each WDS port on a single AP should have a unique partner MAC address. Do not enter the same MAC address
twice in an AP’s WDS port list.
• Each Access Point that is a member of the WDS must have the same Channel setting to communicate with each
other.
• If your network does not support spanning tree, be careful to avoid creating network loops between APs. For example,
creating a WDS link between two Access Points connected to the same Ethernet network will create a network loop (if
spanning tree is disabled). For more information, see the
Spanning Tree section.
WDS Setup Procedure
NOTE: You must disable Auto Channel Select to create a WDS. Each Access Point that is a member of the WDS must
have the same channel setting to communicate with each other.
NOTE: WDS and Mesh functionality cannot be enabled on the same radio when the AP is configured to function as a
Mesh AP.
To setup a wireless backbone follow the steps below for each AP that you wish to include in the Wireless Distribution
System.
1. Confirm that Auto Channel Select is disabled.
2. Write down the MAC Address of the radio that you wish to include in the Wireless Distribution System.
3. Click on Configure > Interfaces > Wireless A or Wireless B.
4. Scroll down to the Wireless Distribution System heading.
Figure 4-14 WDS Configuration