Adding a wireless access point to a wired network.

[johy99]

Hi all,

I have a wired network at my SOHO. 5 Desktops and 1 notebooks - all of them are connected via an unmanaged switch (SMC 10/100 mbps 8-port switch). Internet access is via a hybrid DSL-type connection (not DSL) and I CANNOT use a router with this connection. Therefore for sharing Internet access, I am using Analog X on one of the PCs (which uses two network cards). This is further distributed via the same 10/100 mbps SMC switch.

Now I want to add a Wireless Access Point, and one PCMCIA wireless card to the notebook. Will I be able to access the Internet via the notebook with such a configuration?

Thanks in advance

 

[InlineFive]

As long as it you disable DHCP on the WAP it should be fine. If it is a router you will also need to change its operation mode from Gateway to Router.

 

[johy99]

Thanks a lot PorBleemo. I am toying between the Buffalo AirStation WBRs-G54 and D-Link DWL-2100AP. What do you think? Also, some wireless access points have 4 or so LAN ports - now if I get a WAP model with these ports, can I use it as a switch as well as WAP?

Thanks,

johy99Text

 

[JackMDS]

You can get the Buffalo (it is a good unit), and use it as a Switch with Access Point.

This page was written for an other type of setting but the principle should be the same for you.

Link to: Using a Wireless Cable/DSL Rou...h with an Access Point

:sun:

 

[johy99]

Hello JackMDS,

Thanks. I took a look at a site and am some confused.

1. I am not using a broadband router and cannot use a hardware router with my connection. I have tested a number of broadband routers and they will NOT work - so using one is out of the question.

2. For sharing my Internet connection, I am using a proxy software - Analog X.

3. Basically the broadband modem connects to one of the computers (which runs Analog X). This computer is further connected to a 10/100 mbps switch via another network card. The rest of the computers (including the notebook) are also connected to this 10/100 mbps switch and can share files and the Internet.

With this configuration, what would be the best option for me for adding one wireless access point? I want to be able to access the Internet and access the shared files/printers of the existing wired networkvia the notebook using a PCMCIA card.

I looked up the Buffalo model WBR2-G54 and it apparanently doubles up as a gateway and router - I won't be able to use the gateway feature.

Thanks in advance,

johy99

 

[JackMDS]

I understand the nature of you setting.

In order to use Wireless you need to plug an Access Point to your Switch.

Buying WBR2-G54 and using it as an Access point is your solution since the Buffalo cab be obtained for much less money then a stand alone 802.11g Access Point.

Read the page given above slowly to the end with open mind, you do not have to get sidetracked by the word Broadband that appears there. By using the principle as described in the page you can use the unit as an Access point connected to your current switch.

:sun:

 

[johy99]

Thanks JackMDS,

You read my mind correctly I have bookmarked the link for future reference. I have the Buffalo model on the top list. Which PCMCIA card will you suggest? I was thinking of Buffalo AirStation WLI-CB-G54A. Also, if possible, please suggest to me other models (both for the AP and the PCMCIA card).

Regards,

johy99