KNet wireless CWLF 1 0 student guide vol 3 2006

CWLF

Cisco Wireless LAN
Fundamentals
Volume 3
Version 1.0

Student Guide
Text Part Number: xx-xxxx-xx


Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.
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Table of Contents
Volume 3

Module 8: Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation
Lesson 1: Introducing Wireless Mesh Networking ................................................ 8-3
Overview .............................................................................................................................8-3
Wireless Mesh Networking .................................................................................................8-4
Outdoor Wireless Mesh Solution Components ...................................................................8-5
Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol.........................................................................................8-7
Mesh Applications...............................................................................................................8-9
Lesson Self-Check ............................................................................................................8-12
Summary...........................................................................................................................8-14

Lesson 2: Introducing the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series Lightweight Outdoor Mesh
Access Point ........................................................................................................... 8-15
Overview ...........................................................................................................................8-15
The Cisco Aironet 1500 Series .........................................................................................8-17
Power Solutions ................................................................................................................8-18
Controller Intelligence .......................................................................................................8-20
Mesh Management ...........................................................................................................8-23
Lesson Self-Check ............................................................................................................8-27
Summary...........................................................................................................................8-29

Module 9: Security

Lesson 1: Introducing 802.11 Security ................................................................... 9-3
WLAN Security....................................................................................................................9-4
Wired Equivalent Privacy ....................................................................................................9-8
Enhanced 802.11 Security................................................................................................9-11
Wi-Fi Protected Access.....................................................................................................9-21
Advanced Encryption Standard Encryption ......................................................................9-36
Lesson Self-Check ............................................................................................................9-37
Summary...........................................................................................................................9-39

Lesson 2: Defining Vulnerabilities of WLAN Security ......................................... 9-41
Overview ...........................................................................................................................9-41
Basic 802.11 Security Concerns .......................................................................................9-42
Documented WEP Attacks................................................................................................9-45
Passive and Active Attacks ...............................................................................................9-46
Lesson Self-Check ............................................................................................................9-51
Summary...........................................................................................................................9-53

Lesson 3: Introducing Cisco Wireless Security Suite ......................................... 9-55
Strong Authentication........................................................................................................9-56
Cisco LEAP.......................................................................................................................9-58
EAP-FAST ........................................................................................................................9-63
EAP-PEAP ........................................................................................................................9-67
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EAP-TLS .................................................................................................................. 9-73

Lesson Self-Check ................................................................................................... 9-78
Summary .................................................................................................................. 9-80

Lesson 4: Configuring Cisco Secure ACS .....................................................9-81
Overview .................................................................................................................. 9-81
Network Configuration.............................................................................................. 9-82
System Configuration ............................................................................................... 9-86
External User Database ........................................................................................... 9-90
Group Setup............................................................................................................. 9-95
User Setup ............................................................................................................... 9-98
Lesson Self-Check ................................................................................................. 9-106
Summary ................................................................................................................ 9-108

Lesson 5: Configuring Encryption and Authenticationon Autonomous
Access Points................................................................................................. 9-109
Overview ................................................................................................................ 9-109
Securing the Access Point ..................................................................................... 9-111
Configuring the Access Point for Encryption and Authentication ........................... 9-116
Non-Root Device Configuration ............................................................................. 9-124
Configuring MAC Authentication ............................................................................ 9-127
Configuring the Client for Authentication and Encryption....................................... 9-129
Lesson Self-Check ................................................................................................. 9-138
Summary ................................................................................................................ 9-140

Lesson 6: Configuring Encryption and Authentication on Lightweight Access
Points ..............................................................................................................9-141
Overview ................................................................................................................ 9-141
Security Policy Considerations............................................................................... 9-143
Open Authentication............................................................................................... 9-144
Pre-Shared Key Authentication .............................................................................. 9-145

Web Authentication ................................................................................................ 9-147
Public Key Infrastructure ........................................................................................ 9-152
802.1X.................................................................................................................... 9-157
VPN ........................................................................................................................ 9-160
Cranite WirelessWall .............................................................................................. 9-170
Airfortress Secure Client ........................................................................................ 9-172
Lesson Self-Check ................................................................................................. 9-174
Summary ................................................................................................................ 9-177

Module 10: Site Survey Preparation and Techniques
Lesson 1: Determining the Deployment Requirements for a Site Survey... 10-3
Overview .................................................................................................................. 10-3
Methodology............................................................................................................. 10-5
Customer Requirements .......................................................................................... 10-7
Protocol Evaluation .................................................................................................. 10-9
Coverage................................................................................................................ 10-13
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Possible Problem Areas..................................................................................................10-16
Common Questions ........................................................................................................10-17
Access Point Placement Guidelines ...............................................................................10-19
Enterprise Wireless Planning ..........................................................................................10-20
Documentation................................................................................................................10-22
Lesson Self-Check ..........................................................................................................10-32
Summary.........................................................................................................................10-35

Preassessment Form ......................................................................................................10-35

Lesson 2: Performing a Site Survey.................................................................. 10-39
Overview .........................................................................................................................10-39
Preparation .....................................................................................................................10-40
Access Point Placement .................................................................................................10-41
Coverage Parameters .....................................................................................................10-44
Environmental Effects .....................................................................................................10-49
Survey Mistakes..............................................................................................................10-51
Lesson Self-Check ..........................................................................................................10-55
Summary.........................................................................................................................10-57

Module 11: Manual Site Survey Tools and Utilities
Lesson 1: Identifying Site Survey Tools ............................................................. 11-3
Overview ...........................................................................................................................11-3
Types of Access Points.....................................................................................................11-4
Correct Surveying Equipment ...........................................................................................11-5
Client Cards ......................................................................................................................11-7
Antennas...........................................................................................................................11-8
Antenna Cable Loss........................................................................................................11-10
Recommended Site Survey Equipment ..........................................................................11-11
Cisco Wireless Site Survey Kit........................................................................................11-17
Lesson Self-Check ..........................................................................................................11-19
Summary.........................................................................................................................11-22

Lesson 2: Using Site Survey Utilities ................................................................ 11-23
Overview .........................................................................................................................11-23
Cisco Site Survey Tool....................................................................................................11-24
Cisco Aironet Site Survey Utility .....................................................................................11-25
AirMagnet Survey Pro Tool .............................................................................................11-32

Cisco IP Phone 7920 Site Survey Tool ...........................................................................11-35
Access Point Configuration .............................................................................................11-37
Access Point Statistics ....................................................................................................11-40
Cisco 1000 Series Lightweight Access Point ..................................................................11-42
Lesson Self-Check ..........................................................................................................11-43
Summary.........................................................................................................................11-45

Lesson 3: Using AirMagnet Site Survey Tool for a Manual Survey ................ 11-47
Overview .........................................................................................................................11-47
Determining DSA Coverage............................................................................................11-48
Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

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DSA Coverage Audit .............................................................................................. 11-52
Using the AirMagnet Site Survey ........................................................................... 11-56
Add an Access Point Icon ...................................................................................... 11-66
Site Viewer Display Modes .................................................................................... 11-69
Lesson Self-Check ................................................................................................. 11-79
Summary ................................................................................................................ 11-81

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Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Module 8

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network
Installation
Overview
This module explores the Cisco Wireless Mesh Network solution.

Objectives
Upon completing this module, you will be able to perform an initial configuration of a WLAN.
This ability includes being able to meet these objectives:
„

Define wireless mesh networking and concepts

„

Define the components, features, and functionality of the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series


8-2

Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Lesson 1

Introducing Wireless Mesh

Networking
Overview
This lesson is an introduction to wireless mesh networking and concepts.

Objectives
Upon completing this lesson, you will be able to define wireless mesh networking and
concepts. This ability includes being able to meet these objectives:
„

Define wireless mesh networking

„

Identify Cisco wireless mesh networking components

„

Define Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol

„

Identify wireless mesh applications


Wireless Mesh Networking
This topic defines wireless mesh networking.

Wireless Mesh Networking Defined
Mesh is a network topology where devices are
connected with many redundant connections

between nodes.
The Internet is a good example of a mesh network.

Si

Si

Mesh
Controller

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-2

Mesh networking infrastructure is decentralized and inexpensive, as each node need only
transmit as far as the next node. Nodes act as repeaters to transmit data from nearby nodes to
peers that are too far away to reach, resulting in a network that can span a large distance,
especially over rough or difficult terrain.
Mesh networks are also extremely reliable, as each node is connected to several other nodes. If
one node drops out of the network, due to hardware failure or any other reason, its neighbors
simply find another route. Extra capacity can be installed by simply adding more nodes.
A wireless mesh is a mesh network like any other. Connections between access point nodes are
formed with a radio. This allows many possible paths from a given node to other nodes. Paths
through the mesh network can change in response to traffic loads, radio conditions, or traffic
prioritization.
Wireless mesh networks differ from other wireless networks in that only a subset of the nodes
need to be connected to the wired network. The network can cover more distance by using
nodes that are not connected to the wired network. Unlicensed bandwidth and wireless routing
allow micro-cells to interconnect over wireless backhaul links, reducing costs.

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Outdoor Wireless Mesh Solution Components
This topic identifies Cisco wireless mesh components.

Outdoor Wireless Mesh Solution
Components

Cisco Wireless
Control Systems

Cisco Wireless
LAN Controller

Roof-top
Access Point

• Wireless Mesh
management
system
• Enables networkwide policy
configuration and
device
management
• Supports SNMP

and Syslog

• Links the
Wireless Mesh
Access Points to
the wired network
• Handles RF
algorithms and
optimization
• Seamless Layer 3
mobility
• Provides security
and mobility
management

• Serves as Root or
Gateway access
point to the wired
network
• Typically located
on roof-tops or
towers
• Connects up to 32
pole-top access
points using
802.11a

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Pole-top

Access Point
• Provides
802.11b/g client
access
• Connects to root
access point via
802.11a
• Takes AC or DC
power; PoE
capable
• Ethernet port for
connecting
peripheral devices

CWLF v1.0—m8-3

The Cisco Lightweight Access Point Protocol (LWAPP)-Enabled Mesh Networking Solution
enables two or more indoor and/or outdoor Cisco LWAPP-enabled mesh access points to
communicate with each other over one or more wireless hops to join multiple LANs or to
extend IEEE 802.11b wireless coverage. Cisco LWAPP-enabled mesh access points are
configured, monitored, and operated from and through any Cisco Wireless LAN Controller
deployed in the Cisco Mesh Networking Solution.
The wireless mesh solution is based on the Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Solution. That
solution consists of several components:
„

Cisco Wireless Control System (WCS): Easy to use and intuitive software for wireless
mesh management. Enables network-wide policy configuration and device management.
WCS provides the overall view of the wireless mesh. WCS supports Simple Network
Management Protocol (SNMP) and syslog.

„

Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers: The controller is the part of the solution that allows for
the unique integrated architecture whereby you have a systems level view of the network so
that you are not focusing on individual access points, but rather what all of that looks like
together. Each access point is a radio frequency (RF) emitting device. Managing a large
number of these devices while mitigating interference requires a systems level view of the
network. This systems level view is also critical when managing security and ensuring
Layer 3 mobility.
—

Roof-top access point’s (RAPs): This access point is connected to the wired
network, and serves as root or gateway to the wired network.

—

Pole-top access point’s (PAPs): The PAPs are the remote access points.

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

8-5


Operating Mode
The Cisco Aironet 1500 Series Lightweight Access Point
Protocol (LWAPP)-enabled outdoor mesh access points can be
operated in one of the following roles:

• Roof-top AP (RAP)
• Pole-top AP (PAP)

Controller

RAP
PAP

PAP

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-4

RAPs have a wired connection back to a Cisco Wireless LAN Controller. They use the
backhaul wireless interface to communicate with neighboring PAPs. RAPs are the parent node
to any bridging or mesh network and connect a bridge or mesh network to the wired network.
RAPs are typically located on roof-tops or towers, and can connect up to 32 pole-top access
points. During boot up, an access point will try to become a RAP if it is connected to the wired
network. Reversely, if a RAP loses its wired network connection, it will attempt to become a
PAP and will search for an appropriate RAP.
Note

Do not connect a RAP directly to a Cisco Wireless LAN Controller. A switch or router
between the Cisco Wireless LAN Controller and the RAP is required because Cisco
Wireless LAN Controllers do not forward Ethernet traffic coming from an LWAPP-enabled
port. RAPs can work in Layer 2 or Layer 3 LWAPP mode.

PAPs have no wired connection to a Cisco Wireless LAN Controller. They can be completely
wireless, supporting clients which are communicating to other PAPs or RAPs, or they can be

wired and serve as a bridge to a remote wired network. These access points are not connected
to the wired network, but rely on the RAP to provide a gateway to the wired network. These
units are typically installed in places where you cannot provide a wired connection, but you can
provide power. A typical installation site would be a light pole. The PAP provides IEEE
802.11b/g client access via the radio, and connects wirelessly to the root access point via
backhaul radio. The access points provide a variety of powering options which will be
discussed in a later section. The PAP Ethernet port can be configured for connecting peripheral
devices, such as video surveillance equipment.

8-6

Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol
This topic defines Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol.

Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol
Controller

Adaptive Wireless Path
(AWP) protocol
establishes an optimal
path to root
Each access point carries
feasible successor or
successors if topology or
link health changes

AWP uses a “parent
sticky” value to mitigate
route flaps

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-5

Each access point runs the Adaptive Wireless Path (AWP) Protocol. This is a new protocol that
was designed from the ground up specifically for the wireless environment. This protocol
allows APs to communicate with each other to determine the best path back to the wired
network. Once the optimal path is established, AWP continues to run in the background to
establish alternative routes back to the RAP if the topology changes or conditions cause the link
strength to diminish.
This protocol takes into consideration things like interference and characteristics of the radio so
that the mesh can be self-configuring and self-healing. AWP has the ability to consider all
elements of the wireless environment that need to be considered so that the mesh network is not
disruptive and provides consistent coverage.
Wireless is a very dynamic environment. When there is interference or if access points are
added or removed, the AWP protocol reconfigures the path back to the rooftop access point.
Since wireless is a very dynamic environment, AWP uses a stickiness factor to mitigate route
flaps. This will ensure that an event, such as a large truck passing through the mesh causing a
temporary disruption, does not allow the mesh to change unnecessarily.

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

8-7

Multiple Radios for Wireless Backhaul and
Access

5 GHz
4.9 GHz

Each Mesh access point has multiple radios:
• 802.11b/g - access; 5 GHz - backhaul
2.4 GHz

• Hardware support for 4.9 GHz public safety band

A variety of antennas will be supported including
• 2.4 GHz - 5.5-dBi omni with N-type connector
• 4.9-5.8 GHz - 7.5-dBi 5 GHz omni with N-type connector

5.8 GHz - 9.5-dBi sector with N-type connector
Additional directional and 4.9 GHz antennas
coming
© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-6

Multiple radios allow the access points to be deployed in a pico cell configuration. A pico cell
configuration is used to size down an individual access point’s coverage area. This allows for a
minimum of interference while maintaining capacity across the mesh.
Each access point is hardware ready to support the public safety band. Software support will
allow licensed users to upgrade and configure access points to work in this band.

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Mesh Applications
This topic identifies mesh applications.

Wireless Mesh Applications
Mesh access points automatically
establish connection to controller
• Roof-top access points (RAP) connects
via wired connection

Controller

• Pole-top access points (PAP) connects PAP
via self-configuring backhaul
connection

RAP

Cisco uses pole-top access points
AWP protocol establishes best
path to root

PAP

Access point authenticates to
controller and downloads
configuration and radio parameters
© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-7

Mesh applications may be used to provide wireless coverage throughout a campus,
manufacturing environment, or city. Deploying pole-top access points allows the network to
extend beyond the typical boundaries that would require each access point to be wired to the
LAN. The Cisco AWP protocol allows each device to find a way back to the wired roof top
access point and thus to the network.
Access points are authenticated as they join the network, allowing the controller to send
configuration parameters.

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

8-9


Applications – Indoor / Outdoor Mesh
Indoor to Outdoor Mesh
Controller

Indoor Mesh

Indoor Mesh is possible with REAP
access points

AP1030 (REAP AP)

Allows multiple
hops

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-8

The Cisco Aironet 1500 Series can be used in the indoor to outdoor mesh topology to provide
connectivity between indoor and outdoor clients and devices. Likewise an indoor mesh is
possible with one hop between the wireless access point and the wired access point.

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Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Key Market Segments for Outdoor Wireless
Enterprise outdoor
• Indoor and outdoor wireless solutions for education
customers
• Rugged mesh solutions for enterprise customers

Public sector
• Connecting peripheral devices across the mesh
• Establishing hot zones for public safety or municipal

departments

Service provider
• Hot Spots become hot zones with Wi-Fi access

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-9

Enterprise Outdoor wireless applications include:
„

Universities and Healthcare: Extending Wi-Fi coverage throughout the entire campus.
Providing access to administration, students and facilities managers.

„

Hospitality: Indoor and outdoor mesh can open up new hospitality markets.

„

Manufacturing: Shipping and receiving, inventory applications, hand-held scanner, radio
frequency identification (RFID), and so on.

„

Large Corporate Campuses: Creating “blanket” coverage for access and asset tracking.

„

Utilities: Vehicle Fleets and sensor networks.

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

8-11


Lesson Self-Check
Use the questions here to review what you learned in this lesson. The correct answers and
solutions are found in the Lesson Self-Check Answer Key.
Q1)

Which Mesh access point serves as the root or gateway to the network? (Choose one.)
(Source: Outdoor Wireless Mesh Components)
A)
B)
C)
D)

Q2)

Cisco Mesh access points use what protocols? (Choose two.) (Source: Source: Outdoor
Wireless Mesh Components)
A)
B)
C)
D)

Wireless LAN Context Control Protocol
Lightweight Access Point Protocol
Wireless Domain Services
Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol

Q3)

What frequency does the Public Safety Band operate in? (Source: Outdoor Wireless
Mesh Components)

Q4)

The Adaptive Wireless Path Protocol (AWP) establishes an optimal path to the root.
(Source: Adaptive Wireless Path)
A)
B)

Q5)

True
False

The Cisco Mesh access point can be used as a bridge radio. (Mesh Applications)
A)
B)

8-12

Rooftop access point
Pole-top access point

1310
1400

True
False

Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Lesson Self-Check Answer Key
Q1)

A

Q2)

B and D

Q3)

4.9 GHz

Q4)

True

Q5)

True

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

8-13


Summary
This topic summarizes the key points discussed in this lesson.

Summary
• Wireless mesh networks differ from other wireless networks
in that only a subset of the nodes need to be connected to
the wired network.
• A wireless mesh network can cover more distance by using
nodes that are not connected to the wired network.
• The Adaptive Wireless Path was created for wireless mesh
networks, and takes into consideration things like
interference and characteristics of the radio so that the mesh
can be self-configuring and self-healing.

© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-11

Wireless mesh networks differ from other wireless networks in that only a subset of the nodes
need to be connected to the wired network. A wireless mesh network can cover more distance
by using nodes that are not connected to the wired network. The Adaptive Wireless Path was

created for wireless mesh networks, and takes into consideration things like interference and
characteristics of the radio so that the mesh can be self-configuring and self-healing.

8-14

Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Lesson 2

Introducing the Cisco Aironet
1500 Series Lightweight
Outdoor Mesh Access Point
Overview
This lesson is about the components, features and functionality of the Cisco Aironet 1500
Series lightweight outdoor mesh access point.

Objectives
Upon completing this lesson, you should be able to define the components, features, and
functionality of the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series. This ability includes being able to meet these
objectives:
„

Define mesh networking

„

Explain the power options available on the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series

„

Define zero-touch configuration of the Cisco Wireless LAN Controller

„

Identify specific intelligent RF capabilities managed by Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers


The Cisco Aironet 1500 Series
This topic defines mesh networking.

Cisco Aironet 1500 Series Lightweight
Outdoor Mesh Access Point
NEMA-4/IP66 enclosure
• Dimensions 13” x 6” x 8”
• Weight < 12 lbs
• Horizontal and vertical swivel
brackets

Industrial grade power
supply

Antenna ports

• Local AC power
• Street light power tap

AC Power

• DC power over CAT 5 (48-VDC)

48 VDCEthernet-

Wind Loads

48 V DC/Ethernet

AC power

110AC/48VDC Room for
Power
expansion
5312 Brd
2.4 and 5.7 GHz
Bi-directional Amplifiers

• Sustained: 100 mph
• Gusts: 160

Temperature ranges
© 2005 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Weather
proof
outdoor
enclosure

2.4-GHz

N-connector

5-GHz
N-connector

CWLF v1.0—m8-2

The Cisco Aironet 1500 Series is designed specifically for outdoor environments. The low
profile access point is roughly the size of a shoebox and blends in public environments. A
swiveling mount allows the access point to be manipulated in both horizontal and vertical
directions for a variety of flexible installation options.
The casing is strenuously tested to ensure that water will not penetrate the housing. The outdoor
access point is a sealed unit, and may not be opened in the field, or it may become a hazard. If
the seal breaks on an outdoor access point, return it to Cisco for a replacement.

8-16

Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Power Solutions
This topic explains the power options available on the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series.

Powering - Local Power

© 2005 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-3

The rooftop outdoor access point receives inline power from the Cisco Aironet power injector
or from a 110- to 220-VAC power source. The pole top access point uses a street light adapter
uses a 3-prong National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) twist-lock adapter that
installs between the outdoor lighting control and its fixture. The NEMA twist-lock adapter is
designed to be used with UL 773 listed outdoor lighting controls operating at and rated for 100
and 240 VAC 50/60 Hz.
When powered by 100- to 240-VAC 50/60 Hz, connect this equipment only to a twist-lock
outdoor lighting control. Do not connect it to a twist-lock outdoor lighting control powered by
higher voltages.
When powering the product with AC power other than the street lamp power option, the power
plug should be installed where it can be conveniently accessed to de-energize power from the
unit. Power should not be removed by disconnecting the AC power connector at the equipment
itself and where it is not subjected to water or the outdoor elements. This may be accomplished
by the use of UL listed power receptacles, such as Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)s,
provided with UL listed waterproofing covers suitable for covering the receptacle and plugs
with the plugged in equipment in use.
When installing the Cisco-supplied street light adapter to the outdoor access point AC power
connector, always connect the outdoor access point end of the cable first. When removing the
Cisco-supplied street light adapter, always disconnect the outdoor access point end of the cable
last.

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

8-17


Powering- Over Ethernet

Output
Modular
IEC Cable

RJ-45
POWER
INJECTOR

200 Ft.

Military Spec
Connector
RJ-45

RJ-45

Input

48-VDC Power over Ethernet
For indoor installation
Inserts the power onto Ethernet (no regeneration of
power)
Input 100-240 V AC ~ 1.5 A, Output 48 V, 1.2 A
Total length limit of input and output cables is 330
feet
© 2005 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-4

Shielded Ethernet cables provide Ethernet data and power from the power injector, and optional

shielded power cables provide power from the power source to the outdoor access point. The
power injector is a separate unit designed for operation in a sheltered indoor environment, such
as inside a building. The power injector also functions as an Ethernet repeater by connecting to
a Category 5 LAN backbone and using the Ethernet cable interface to the outdoor access point.
The power injector uses an external 48-VDC power module and injects the DC voltage into the
Ethernet cables to power the outdoor access point.
When you are installing the outdoor access point with an Ethernet cable, and powering through
that cable, the outdoor access point must be reliably grounded using an external ground. The
power injector and the power module should not be placed in an unprotected outdoor
environment.

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Cisco Wireless LAN Fundamentals (CWLF) v1.0

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.


Controller Intelligence
This topic defines zero-touch configuration of the Cisco Wireless LAN Controller.

Zero-Touch Configuration
When using zero-touch, the access point will
complete a series of configuration tasks:
• Establish radio role (RAP or PAP)
• Perform backhaul interface and channel discovery
• Establish data rate
• Create a temporary secure connection
• Create a secure LWAPP connection
• Perform connection maintenance

© 2005 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

CWLF v1.0—m8-5

The goal for the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series is to establish a secure zero-touch configuration. If
you have enabled zero-touch configuration on the Cisco Wireless LAN Controller, the Cisco
Aironet 1500 Series does the following to accomplish a secure zero-touch.
„

When a Cisco Aironet 1500 Series is first installed, it attempts to establish its role
automatically. If it has a wired connection to a Cisco Wireless LAN Controller, it assumes
the role of the roof-top access point (RAP); otherwise it becomes a pole-top access point
(PAP).

„

Next, the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series determines the backhaul interface and channel.
—

If it is a RAP, it already has a secure LWAPP connection to the Cisco Wireless LAN
Controller and uses the configured RAP backhaul interface (Default: IEEE 802.11a)
to connect to Pole Top access points.

—

If it is a PAP, it scans the backhaul interfaces and channels for neighbor Cisco
Aironet 1500 Series access points. When it finds a neighbor with the same bridge
group name and a path back to the Cisco Wireless LAN Controller, it makes that
access point its parent. If the PAP finds more than one Cisco Aironet 1500 Series, it

uses a least-cost algorithm to determine which parent has the best path back to the
Cisco Wireless LAN Controller.

—

Typical mesh access-point separation in a suburban environment should be about
300 to 350 feet for best behavior in the mess environment.

All the Cisco Aironet 1500 Series access points use the configured data rate (Default: 18 Mbits
per second).

Copyright © 2006, Cisco Systems, Inc.

Cisco Wireless Mesh Network Installation

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