Wireless LAN Array Element Security Specifications Wireless Security: WEP 40bit/128bit encryption WPA with TKIP and AES encryption Misappropriated APs automatically reset to factory defaults (requires the Xirrus Wireless Management System) Rogue AP detection, with alerts and classification User and System Authentication: WPA Pre-Shared Key authentication Embedded RADIUS Server 802.1x EAP-TLS 802.1x EAP-TTLS 802.
Wireless LAN Array Element Wireless Specifications Number of Radios: 4 x 802.11a/b/g radios Wireless Standards: 802.11a/b/g and g-only mode 802.11e (draft), 802.11i Channel Selection: Manual Automatic Frequency Bands: 11a: 5.15-5.25 GHz (UNII 1) 11a: 5.15-5.25 GHz (TELEC) 11a: 5.25-5.35 GHz (UNII 2) 11a: 5.470-5.725 (ETSI) 11a: 5.725-5825 GHz (UNII 3) 11b/g: 2.412-2.462 GHz (FCC) 11b/g: 2.412-2.472 GHz (ETSI) 11b/g: 2.412-2.484 GHz (TELEC) Antenna: 4 internal 3 dBi 180° 802.
Wireless LAN Array Installing the Xirrus Array This chapter defines the prerequisites for installing the Xirrus Array and provides instructions to help you complete a successful installation.
Wireless LAN Array ! The Gigabit1 Ethernet interface is the primary port for both data and management traffic. If a single Ethernet connection is used, it must be connected to the Gigabit1 Ethernet interface. The 10/100 Ethernet Port can be used for managing the Array, and will only bridge management traffic. See also, “Port Failover Protection” on page 33. z Secure Shell (SSH) utility To establish secure remote command line access to the Array, you need a Secure Shell (SSH) utility, such as PuTTY.
Wireless LAN Array Optional Network Components The following network components are optional. z DHCP server To distribute IP addresses and ancillary information to your Xirrus Array. z Xirrus Wireless Management System (XM-3300) The optional XM-3300 offers powerful management features for small or large Xirrus Array deployments.
Wireless LAN Array Planning Your Installation This section provides guidelines and examples to help you plan your Xirrus Array deployment to achieve the best overall coverage and performance. We recommend you conduct a site survey to determine the best location and settings for each Array you install. General Deployment Considerations The Xirrus Array’s unique multi-radio architecture generates 360 degrees of sectored high-gain 802.11a/b/g coverage that provides extended range.
Wireless LAN Array 3. Building materials can make all the difference. For example, solid metal doors or aluminum wall studs may adversely effect wireless signals. Try to position wireless client devices so that the signal passes through drywall (between studs) or open doorways and not other materials.
Wireless LAN Array RF Patterns The Xirrus Array allows you to control—automatically or manually—the pattern of wireless coverage that best suits your deployment needs. You can choose to operate with full coverage, half coverage, or custom coverage (by enabling or disabling individual sectors). Full (Normal) Coverage In normal operation, the Array provides a full 360 degrees of coverage. Figure 10.
Wireless LAN Array Custom Coverage Where there are highly reflective objects in close proximity to the Array, you can turn off specific radios to avoid interference and feedback. reflective object Figure 12. Custom Coverage Calculating Areas Before we discuss cell sizes, it is useful to know how to calculate the area of a circle (because the Array radiates a full 360 degrees). The area of a circle is equal to pi (π) times the square of the radius, where pi is equal to 3.14.
Wireless LAN Array Capacity and Cell Sizes Cell sizes should be calculated based on the number of users, the applications being used (for example, data/video/voice), and the number of Arrays available at the location. The capacity of a cell is defined as the minimum data rate desired for each sector multiplied by the total number of sectors being used. The following chart shows the maximum recommended cell sizes for each data rate.
Wireless LAN Array Sample 802.11a Cells The following 802.11a sample cells illustrate the coverage area and minimum throughput you can expect (per sector) based on the size of each cell. Notice how the throughput increases as the cell size decreases, and vice versa. 68 ft 14,520 sq ft 54 Mbps per sector 98 ft 30,157 sq ft 36 Mbps per sector 165 ft 85,487 sq ft 18 Mbps per sector Figure 14. Sample 802.
Wireless LAN Array Fine Tuning Cell Sizes Adjusting the transmit power allows you to fine tune cell sizes. There are three settings—Large, Medium, or Small (the default is Large). If you are installing many units in close proximity to each other, reduce the transmit power to avoid excessive interference with other Arrays or installed APs. See also, “IAP Settings” on page 90. Small Medium Large Figure 15.
Wireless LAN Array Allocating Channels Because the Xirrus Array is a multi-channel device, allocating the best channels to radios is important if peak performance is to be maintained. Automatic Channel Selection We recommend that you allow the Array to make intelligent channel allocation decisions automatically. In the automatic mode, channels are allocated dynamically, driven by changes in the environment.
Wireless LAN Array Deployment Examples The following examples employ 802.11a cells, each offering minimum throughputs of 54 Mbps, 36 Mbps, and 18 Mbps per sector respectively, and assume a floor plan covering a total area of about 60,000 square feet. Figure 18. Deployment Scenario (54 Mbps)—Per Sector Figure 19.
Wireless LAN Array Figure 20. Deployment Scenario (18 Mbps)—Per Sector Failover Planning This section discusses failover protection at the unit and port levels. Port Failover Protection To ensure that service is continued in the event of a port failure, you can utilize the Gigabit 1 and Gigabit 2 ports simultaneously. Multiple port connections Ethernet switch Figure 21.
Wireless LAN Array In addition, the Array has full failover protection between the Gigabit 1 and Gigabit 2 Ethernet ports (see following table).
Wireless LAN Array Power Planning This section discusses the AC and DC power options. AC Power The AC power option requires a direct connection between the Array and a dedicated AC power outlet. The power cord is provided with the unit. Remote Distributed DC Power To deliver DC power to the Array, you must have the optional Xirrus Remote DC Power System (XP-3100) and a Xirrus Array that supports DC power—see Figure 4 on page 8 .
Wireless LAN Array z Wi-Fi Protected Access with AES This is government-grade encryption—available on most new client adapters—and uses the AES–CCM encryption mode (Advanced Encryption Standard–Counter Mode). Authentication Authentication ensures users are who they say they are, and occurs when users attempt to join the wireless network and periodically there after. The following authentication methods are available with the XS-3900: 36 z RADIUS 802.1x 802.
Wireless LAN Array Network Management Planning Network management can be performed using any of the following methods: z Command Line Interface, using an SSH (Secure Shell) utility, like PuTTY. z Web-based management, using the Array’s embedded Web Management Interface (WMI). This method provides configuration and basic monitoring tools, and is good for small deployments (one or two units). z Web-based management, using the optional Xirrus Wireless Management System (XM-3300).
Wireless LAN Array Deployment Summary The following table summarizes your deployment options for small and large deployments. Number of Xirrus Arrays Function Power One or Two Three or More AC AC DC (with XP-3100) DC (with XP-3100) UPS backup (recommended) Failover Recommended Highly recommended VLANs Optional Optional use, Can be used to put all APs on one VLAN or map to existing VLAN scheme Encryption Authentication WPA with TKIP (recommended) WPA with AES (recommended) PSK or 802.
Wireless LAN Array Installation Workflow This workflow illustrates the steps that are required to install and configure your Xirrus Array successfully. Review this flowchart before attempting to install the unit on a customer’s network.
Wireless LAN Array Unpacking the Xirrus Array When you unpack your Xirrus Array, you will find the following items in the carton: Item 40 Quantity Xirrus Wireless LAN Array 1 AC power cord 1 Console cable 1 Mounting plate 1 Mounting screws 4 Tile grid mounting clamps 4 Clamp nuts 4 Mounting template 1 CD-ROM containing: This User’s Guide in PDF format End User License Agreement (EULA) README file 1 Quick Install Guide 1 Registration Card 1 Installing the Xirrus Array
Wireless LAN Array Installing Your Xirrus Wireless LAN Array This section provides instructions for installing your Xirrus Wireless LAN Array. Choosing a Location Based on coverage, capacity and deployment examples discussed earlier in this chapter, choose a location for the Array that will provide the best results for your needs. The Xirrus Array was designed to be mounted on a ceiling where the unit is unobtrusive and wireless transmissions can travel unimpeded throughout open plan areas.
Wireless LAN Array Wiring Considerations Unless you are using the Xirrus Remote DC Power System (XP-3100) with the DC version of the Array, an AC power outlet must be available to the Array (an AC power cord is provided with each unit). If you are using the XP-3100 to distribute DC power to multiple Arrays, go to “Remote DC Power System (Optional)” on page 8.
Wireless LAN Array Important Notes About Network Connections Read the following notes before making any network connections. ! ! The Array’s Ethernet ports should be plugged into an Ethernet switch, not an Ethernet hub—if a hub is used, we recommend that you connect only one Ethernet port. The Gigabit1 Ethernet interface is the primary port for both data and management traffic. If a single Ethernet connection is used, it must be connected to the Gigabit1 Ethernet interface.
Wireless LAN Array Attaching the T-Bar Clips The T-bar clips are used to create four mounting points on the ceiling tile grid for the Array mounting plate. Use the mounting template (provided) to find the correct location for all four clamps. To attach the clamps, simply twist the clamps onto the grid and tighten the screw post with a screwdriver. Ceiling tile grid Template T-bar clips (4 places) Tighten the screw post Figure 25.
Wireless LAN Array Installing the Mounting Plate If necessary, orient the mounting plate (see “Attaching the T-Bar Clips” on page 44) and locate the plate on the four screw posts. Secure the mounting plate to the four clamps using the nuts provided. Once the mounting plate is secured, cut an access hole in the ceiling tile for the cables. Tile grid Mounting Plate Cut an access hole here Figure 26.
Wireless LAN Array Connecting the Cables Feed the power and Ethernet cables through the access hole in the tile and the mounting plate (XS-3900), then connect the cables to the unit. See also, “Wiring Considerations” on page 42. Figure 27. Connecting the Cables When the cables are connected, turn on the power switch—before attaching the unit to the mounting plate (next step). Verify that the Ethernet link LED lights and the LED boot sequence begins.
Wireless LAN Array Attaching the Array to the Mounting Plate (XS-3900) Align the port recess on the Array with the access hole in the mounting plate, then connect the Array with the lugs on the mounting plate (4 places) and turn the Array clockwise to lock the unit into place (similar to a smoke detector). Figure 28.
Wireless LAN Array Attaching the Array to the Mounting Plate (XS-3500) Align the XS-3500 Wireless LAN Array with the key post on the mounting plate, then turn the Array to the right to lock the unit into place at the 4 lugs—similar to a smoke detector. Key post Lug Alignment hole Figure 29.
Wireless LAN Array Securing the Array For added security, there is a locking bracket incorporated into the mounting plate, which will accept a small luggage-style padlock (if desired). There is also a Kensington lock slot located near the Ethernet ports. In addition, the mounting plate incorporates a positive locking tab that prevents the unit from being inadvertently released. Locking bracket Figure 30.
Wireless LAN Array Dismounting the Array To dismount the Array, place your fingers so as to increase the space between the Array and the mounting plate at the positions indicated by the decals on the mounting plate—these are aligned with IAPs (radios) abg1 and abg3, as indicated on the clock-face of the Array. a12 a11 a1 abg4 abg1 a10 a2 a3 a9 a8 a4 abg3 abg2 a7 a5 a6 Figure 31.
Wireless LAN Array Powering Up the Xirrus Wireless LAN Array When powering up, the Array follows a specific sequence of LED patterns showing the boot progress, and following a successful boot will provide extensive status information. The normal boot sequence is as follows: 1. The green status LED will light first, showing a steady flashing while the unit boots. In the event of a boot failure, this LED will change to flashing red. 2.
Wireless LAN Array Once the unit is fully booted the default IAP LED display will be as follows: z IAP radio LEDs that are enabled will show a steady orange for 802.11a radios, or green for 802.11b/g radios. z Once a client associates with an individual IAP, that LED will show a slow flash (heartbeat) pattern. z When data is transmitted or received by an IAP, that IAP’s LED will flash.
Wireless LAN Array Establishing Communication with the Array The Array can be configured through the Command Line Interface (CLI) or the graphical Web Management Interface (WMI). You can use the CLI via the serial management port, the Fast Ethernet port, or either of the Gigabit Ethernet ports. You can use the WMI via any of the Array’s Ethernet ports. Serial Fast Ethernet Gigabit 1 Gigabit 2 Figure 34.
Wireless LAN Array Performing the Express Setup Procedure The Express Setup procedure allows you to establish global configuration settings that will enable basic Array functionality. Any changes you make on this page will affect all radios. When finished, click on the Apply button to apply the new settings to this session, then click on the Save button to save your changes. more ... Figure 35.
Wireless LAN Array ... continued Figure 36. WMI: Express Setup Page (Part 2) Procedure for Performing an Express Setup 1. Host Name: Specify a unique host name for this Array. The host name is used to identify the Array on the network. Use a name that will be meaningful within your network environment, up to 64 alphanumeric characters. 2. Location Information: Enter a brief but meaningful description that accurately defines the physical location of the Array.
Wireless LAN Array 7. Configure the Fast Ethernet (10/100 Megabit), Gigabit 1 and Gigabit 2 network interfaces. The fields for each of these interfaces are the same, and include: a. Enable Interface: Choose Yes to enable this network interface, or choose No to disable the interface. b. Allow Management on Interface: Choose Yes to allow management of the Array via this network interface, or choose No to deny all management privileges for this interface. c. 8.
Wireless LAN Array 9. Wireless Security: Select the desired wireless security scheme (Open, WEP or WPA). Make your selection from the choices available in the pulldown list. Open This option offers no data encryption and is not recommended, though you might choose this option if clients are required to use a VPN connection through a secure SSH utility, like PuTTy. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) An optional IEEE 802.11 function that offers frame transmission privacy similar to a wired network.
Wireless LAN Array a. Confirm Admin Password: If you entered a new administration password, confirm the new password here. 12. Adjust Time (hrs:min:sec): Check this box if you want to adjust the current system time. When the box is checked, the time fields become active. Enter the revised time (hours, minutes, seconds, am/pm) in the corresponding fields. If you don’t want to adjust the current time, this box should be left unchecked (default). 13.
Wireless LAN Array 16. Use NTP (IP Address): Check this box if you want to use an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server to synchronize the Array’s clock. This ensures that syslog time-stamping is maintained across all units. Without an NTP server assigned (no universal clock), each Array will use its own internal clock and stamp times accordingly, which may result in discrepancies. When this box is checked, the NTP and NTP 2 IP address fields become active.
Wireless LAN Array Installing the XS-3900 Wall Mount Assembly The wall mounting assembly is used to mount the XS-3900 Wireless LAN Array on a wall, instead of the traditional ceiling mount—where mounting the Array on the ceiling may be impractical at your location.
Wireless LAN Array Mark the Wall Position 1. Use the Wall Mounting Bracket as a template and mark the locations on the wall for the mounting holes. Mark holes (at least 5 places) Figure 39. Wall Mount—Marking the Holes When marking the holes, ensure that the mounting plate is level—you may need assistance. # The bracket must be secured to the wall in at least 5 places, using a minimum of the top 3 holes and the 2 outside holes at the bottom.
Wireless LAN Array Install the SNAPTOGGLE™ Toggle Bolts 2. At the locations you marked in Step 1, drill a 1/2 inch (13mm) hole (there must be a minimum clearance behind the wall of 1 7/8 inches (48mm). 3. (Refer to graphic A) Hold the metal channel flat alongside the plastic straps and slide the channel through the hole. A B C D Figure 40. Installing the Toggle Bolts 4.
Wireless LAN Array Graphic D shows a cutaway example of how the toggle bolt is used to secure an item to the wall (in our case, the item is the Wall Mounting Bracket—secured to the wall with a minimum of 5 toggle bolts. Do not attach the Wall Mounting Bracket to the wall at this time. Attach the Mounting Plate to the Wall Mounting Bracket Secure the Wireless LAN Array’s mounting plate to the Wall Mounting Bracket (4 places)—tighten the 4 bolt assemblies to a torque of 10–12 lbf.ft (1.38–1.66 kgf.m).
Wireless LAN Array Mount the Array The image opposite shows the orientation of the Wireless LAN Array when mounted on a wall. It is not intended to show a fully installed Array. 7. Mount the Wireless LAN Array to the Wall Mounting Bracket in the same way that you would mount the Array to a ceiling mount (the procedure is identical). Figure 42.
Wireless LAN Array The Web Management Interface This chapter provides an overview of the XS-3900’s embedded Web Management Interface (WMI), used for establishing your network’s configuration settings and wireless operating parameters. An Overview The WMI is an easy-to-use graphical interface to your Xirrus Array. It allows you to configure the product to suit your individual requirements and ensure that the unit functions efficiently and effectively. Figure 43.
Wireless LAN Array Content The content of the WMI has been organized by function and hierarchy, shown here in list form. You can click on any item in the list to jump to the referenced destination. Array Status Express Setup Network Interfaces Network Settings Network Statistics DHCP Settings DNS Settings IAP Interfaces IAP Settings Global Settings Global Settings .11a Global Settings .
Wireless LAN Array Structure The WMI has been designed with simplicity in mind, making navigation quick and easy. In the following example, you’ll see that pages are divided into left and right frames. The left frame contains configuration elements organized by function (for example, radio interfaces, security, etc.), and where these functions are sub-divided there is an associated pull-down menu.
Wireless LAN Array Status Bar Below the configuration frames you will find a status bar containing information about this Array, including: z Location—displays the location information assigned to the unit. z Host name—the host name assigned to this unit. z Network interface IP address—the IP address of the network interface that is currently being used. Also included in the status bar is a Print button and a Help button.
