This solution explains the procedure to connect a wireless access point to a wired network. Check out the FAQ and recommended products at the end of the article.
In this example we shall use the deployment with Netgear access points
Step 1- Identify and configure the TCP/IP parameters for the access point
The first step is to configure the IP address of the access point. The IP address of the access point should be a part of the same network address of the existing network.
For example, let us assume that there is a wireless router on the network. To extend the Wifi network, a wireless access point has to be setup up. The network address range is 192.168.1.0/24. The IP address of the access point should be within the range of the network and also an unused IP address. This could be 192.168.1.25.
The default gateway and DNS IP address of the access point should be configured as the IP address of the wireless router.
The next step is to configure the IP address on the wireless access point. This can be done using the web interface of the access point.
Step 2 – Configure the SSID name and security parameters for the access point
The next step is to configure the SSID name and security parameters for the access point. It is always recommended that you configure a different SSID name for the access point for identification purpose. If the same SSID as the wireless router is provided, you may not know to which device you are connected.
Step 3 – Connect the access point to the wired network
Once, Step 1 and Step 2 is completed, you need to connect the access point to the inbuilt switch on the wireless router. This is done using Ethernet cable.
Connect the ethernet cable to network port of the access point. Access points have ethernet ports which are inbuilt on them.
The other end of the Ethernet cable should be connected to the inbuilt switch on the wireless router.
Step 4- Test the connectivity
Connect to the wireless access point using SSID name and the associated security parameters using any device like laptops, mobiles etc. The connection should be successfull, and you should be able to access the internet and other resources on the network.
FAQ
What to do when you need to connect access point where there is no power outlet
In this scenario you should use a POE switch. By using a POE switch, the access point can be powered without the use of power adapters.
Is it mandatory to configure static IP address for the access point
No. It is not mandatory. But static IP address is always recommended since it would be difficult to manage an access point which is configured with dynamic IP address.
Recommended products
1. Ubiquiti UniFi 6 Lite Access Point
2. NETGEAR WiFi 6 Access Point (WAX214) – Dual-Band PoE Access Point AX1800 Wireless Speed
3. NETGEAR Wireless Desktop Access Point (WAC104) – WiFi 5 Dual-Band AC1200 Speed
Recommended read
Home network with multiple access point