I want to plug a Wireless AP directly into my NIC....

forcemac101

Senior member
Oct 29, 2001
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I have an internal ADSL PCI modem in my desktop, and am thinking about getting a laptop with integrated wireless. I have an unused NIC in my desktop and was thinking of just plugging the AP into my NIC, and using the laptop via that. Can this be done? I realize that the desktop will have to be on while i want to surf with the laptop. I am also running WinXP Pro, will I have to do anything special to configure the AP for the NIC and using the desktop as a proxy server????

thanks

 

ktwebb

Platinum Member
Nov 20, 1999
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Just use a crossover and you'll be all set. The Wired NIC will push to the AP and the AP will broadcast to wireless clients.
 

JackMDS

Elite Member
Super Moderator
Oct 25, 1999
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Theoretically, it should be able to work. I never came across such an arrangement in a real system (not too many Internal DSL around).

A/P directly to NIC needs Crossover Cable. If you can not find a way to have one DHCP working correctly, you will need to set all the IPs manually, and then put the A/P's IP as the PCMCIA DNS.

I am not sure that WinXP ICS supports it, however Sygate claims support for similar concoctions.

Sygate® Home Network


 

ktwebb

Platinum Member
Nov 20, 1999
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Do it all the time. Works perfectly. AP's pass packets indiscriminately to any client associated to it. Assuming we're talking about a simple AP and not a wireless router. An AP is just a hub. Instead of plugging the LAN interface NIC into a hub and sharing the connection via wired medium, he would be replacing the hub with the AP, a wireless hub. Nothing for ICS or any other Internet sharing software to support. He wouldn't use the AP's IP for anthing other than management unless some AP's have a DNS service built in. Wireless routers yeah, but not AP's. I have never heard of that. Would be a neat feature though I can't see the point. The NAT/Proxy software should do the resolution.

 

forcemac101

Senior member
Oct 29, 2001
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ok, thanks for 411, sounds like I will have to get some proxy software then? I do have a 4 port switch laying around, but I don't see how that can simplify stuff...
 

ktwebb

Platinum Member
Nov 20, 1999
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Since your runnin XP you could just use the built in Connection sharing software. Up to you of course. You only need the switch if you plan on adding more wired PC's. Well, I suppose if you already have a few regular straight thru patch cables, using the switch would negate having to go out and buy a X-over cable.