µ

D-Link DWL-7100AP User Manual

Introduction

D-Link, the industry pioneer in wireless networking, introduces a performance breakthrough in wireless connectivity – The D-Link AirPremier

AG™ DWL-7100AP Access Point, designed for multimode network deployments capable of up to delivering 15x faster data rates than

standard 802.11b in both 802.11a and 802.11g bands.

The DWL-7100AP is an ideal solution for creating a wireless backbone infrastructure or for extending an existing wireless network. For

advanced configuration, network administrators can deploy multimode operation such as using the DWL-7100AP as a 5GHz 802.11a

wireless bridge while simultaneously providing Access Point functionality for 2.4GHz 802.11b/g networks. The DWL-7100AP can operate

as an Access Point, WDS, WDS with AP, Repeater or an AP Client. For compatibility with other D-Link AirPremier AG hardware, the DWL-

7100AP uses Wireless Distribution System (WDS) technology when running in Repeater mode.

The DWL-7100AP provides maximum wireless security by supporting WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), 802.1x, and three levels of WEP

Encryption (64/128/152-bit). Other security features include MAC Address Filtering, Wireless LAN segmentation, Disable SSID Broadcast,

and support for Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) Encryption.

The DWL-7100AP delivers extremely fast wireless performance with maximum wireless signal rates reaching up to 108Mbps* when set

in Turbo mode for both 802.11g and 802.11a networks, while still remaining backwards compatible to 802.11b. With the ability to deliver

blazing transfer speeds, network administrators have ample bandwidth to distribute amongst multiple workgroups and avoid network

bottlenecks.

Network administrators can manage the DWL-7100AP settings via its Web-based configuration utility or though Telnet. For advanced

network management, administrators can use D-Link’s AP Manager or D-View SNMP management module to configure multiple access

points from a single location.

With versatile dualband operation modes, solid security features, and extremely fast data transfer speeds, the D-Link AirPremier AG

DWL-7100AP Wireless Access Point offers a high return on investment and provides SMB and Enterprise network administrators an ideal

solution for establishing a new wireless network or for extending the range of an existing one.

* Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11a and 802.11g specifications. Actual data throughput will vary. Network conditions and environmental

factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate. Environmental factors will

adversely affect wireless signal range.

7

D-Link DWL-7100AP User Manual

Features and Benefits

Up to 108Mbps* with D-Link 108AG

Technology

Using D-Link 108AG Technology, transfer rates reach up to 15x the speed of

previous 802.11b wireless devices. Large data packets or bandwidth-intense

files can now be transferred smoothly without interruption. With 4x the number of

non-overlapping channels than a standard 802.11g device, you can increase the

total amount of aggregated user bandwidth.

Assign Users to 2.4GHz or 5GHz

Frequency Bands

For advanced configuration, the DWL-7100AP concurrently operates in both the

2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency band; network administrators can deploy multimode

wireless settings such as using the DWL-7100AP as an 802.11a wireless bridge

while simultaneously providing access point functionality to 802.11b/802.11g

networks.

Strong Security with WPA, AES, and

152-bit WEP Encryption

Clients accessing the DWL-7100AP can securely connect using 802.1x and

WPA for wireless user authentication. For increased data protection, the

Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and 152-bit WEP Encryption protocols are

supported.

Multimode Operation for Versatility in

Setup

The DWL-7100AP can operate in more than one mode: Access Point,

WDS with AP, WDS, AP Client and AP Repeater. In repeater mode, the WDS

feature allows users to freely roam about the location without having to change

wireless settings.

Advanced Network Management Options

Users can manage the DWL-7100AP using any Web browser (e.g. Internet Explorer

6.0) or via Telnet. For advanced network management, D-Link’s AP Manager and

D-View’s SNMP network management software are comprehensive management

utilities designed to manage your entire wireless network features and options.

* Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g specifications. Actual data throughput will vary. Network

conditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead lower actual data

throughput rate.

¶

D-Link DWL-7100AP User Manual

Hardware Overview

LEDs

LED

LED Activity

Power

A steady light indicates a connection to a power source

LAN (10/100)

A steady light indicates a connection to the Ethernet port;

a blinking light indicates activity

WLAN

(802.11a and 802.11b or 802.11g)

A blinking light indicates activity in the respective wireless mode:

802.11a and/or 802.11b/802.11g

·

D-Link DWL-7100AP User Manual

Installation

It’s best to use a computer (with an Ethernet adapter) that is connected to a switch or router for configuring the DWL-7100AP. The default

IP address for the DWL-7100AP is 192.168.0.50 with a Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0.

You will need to assign your computer a Static IP address within the same range as the DWL-7100AP’s IP address for the purpose of

configuring the DWL-7100AP. See the Appendix if you need assistance in assigning a Static IP address for your network adapter.

A.

First, connect the power adapter to the receptor at the back panel of the DWL-7100AP and then plug the other end of the power adapter

to a wall outlet or power strip. The Power LED will turn ON to indicate proper operation.

B.

Insert one end of the cable to the

Ethernet port on the back panel of the DWL-7100AP and the other end of the cable to your network

(switch or router).

Note:

You also have the option of connecting the DWL-7100AP directly to the computer that will be used for configuration. The Link

LED light will illuminate to indicate a proper Ethernet connection.

(Note: The Ethernet Port on the DWL-7100AP is Auto-MDI/MDIX.

Meaning you can use a straight-through or crossover Ethernet cable to connect to the Ethernet port on the

DWL-7100AP.)

C.

T

he DWL-G650 Wireless Cardbus Adapter and the DWL-G520 Wireless PCI Adapter will connect, out of the box, with the DWL-7100AP,

using their default wireless settings. Computers with 802.11b wireless adapters can also connect to the DWL-7100AP.

Connect to Your Network

10

D-Link DWL-7100AP User Manual

Installation Considerations

D-Link lets you access your network from anywhere you want. However, keep in mind, that range is limited by the number of walls, ceilings,

or other objects that the wireless signals must pass through. Typical ranges vary depending on the types of materials and background RF

noise in your home or business. The key to maximizing range is to follow these basic principles:

1. Keep the number of walls and ceilings to a minimum - Each wall or ceiling can rob your D-Link Wireless product of 3-90

ft. of range. Position your Access Points, Residential Gateways, and computers so that the number of walls or ceilings is

minimized.

2. Be aware of the direct line between access points, routers, and computers - A wall that is 1.5 feet thick, at a 45 degree angle,

appears to be almost 3 feet thick. At a 2-degree angle it looks over 42 feet thick. Try to make sure that the access point and

adapters are positioned so that the signal will travel straight through a wall or ceiling for better reception.

3. Building materials make a difference - A solid metal door or aluminum studs may have a negative effect on range. Try to

position access points, routers, and computers so that the signal passes through drywall or open doorways and not other

materials.

4. Make sure that the antenna is positioned for best reception by using the software signal strength tools included with your

product.

5. Keep your product away (at least 3-6 feet) from electrical devices that generate RF noise, like microwaves, monitors, electric

motors, UPS units, etc.

6. If you are using 2.4GHz cordless phones or X-10 (wireless products such as ceiling fans, lights, and home security systems),

your wireless connection will degrade dramatically or drop completely. Anything using the 2.4Ghz frequency will interfere with

your wireless network.