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Creating a WiFi network in infrastructure mode


Presentation of the WiFi infrastructure network

The set-up of a Wi-Fi network in infrastructure mode is very similar to that of a computer-to-computer Wi-Fi network except for the following differences:

  • A Wi-Fi network in infrastructure mode requires an access point, whether or not it is connected to a local area network or to the internet in the case of a wireless router;
  • The association of target machines with the infrastructure network is generally simpler;
  • While the goal of the wireless network is to make it possible for mobile computers to access the internet, it is not necessary to leave a computer on to obtain access to the network of networks;
  • Security possibilities are more numerous and more robust.

Configuring the access point

The access point is the central hardware component of a Wi-Fi network in infrastructure mode: it makes it possible to manage the association of client machines and connect them to the local area network.

In general, an access point has a certain number of hubs that make it possible to connect it to a local area network or sometimes to a computer using a USB cable.

The configuration interface may vary from one manufacturer to another, but usually access points have a local Web interface that can be accessed at an address such as http://192.168.1.1 (or http://192.168.0.1).

To configure the wireless access point, it at least needs to be connected to a computer via a wired connection. To access the interface, simply enter the address http://192.168.1.1 in a simple web browser. The interface then asks for a user name (login) and a password. Simply enter the default login and password mentioned in the access point's documentation.

Modifying the password

It is strongly recommended that you modify the default password, so as to avoid the risk of third-party piracy. The prompt screen generally specifies the name of the access point model, which makes the pirate's work very easy.

Configuring the wireless network

In the section concerning wireless network settings, you simply need to choose the network's settings and enter an SSID characterizing the wireless network.

Preferably choose a characteristic SSID that will let you easily identify your network but avoid including personal information (last name, first name, address, etc.).

DHCP

Activating the DHCP service on the access point lets you automatically assign IP addresses to client stations. Most of the time, it is possible to define the range of addresses available for assignment, using a starting address, an ending address and a subnet mask.

Some access points also let you reserve an IP address, so the access point will automatically assign the same IP to a machine.

Configuring client machines

The configuration of client machines is very similar to configuration in the case of a computer-to-computer network. Simply right-click the wireless network connection icon and choose "properties" or click the taskbar icon and choose "properties".

Wireless network connection properties

The properties dialogue box for the wireless network connection (wireless network configuration tab) presents the networks detected by the wireless adapter and lets you configure them.

To connect to the access point, simply add a new network, identified by a unique name, the SSID. To do so, click the button Add. A new dialogue box opens:

Creating an ad hoc network

To connect to a network in infrastructure mode (i.e. with an access point), the box "This is a computer-to-computer network" should not be checked. The other options are used to heighten security. Firstly, leave the network completely open (with the options in the above screenshot), so as not to multiply settings that could prevent the first networking.

Ideally, if the access point permits, disable the SSID Broadcast to keep it from being visible to those around you.
This document entitled « Creating a WiFi network in infrastructure mode » from Kioskea (en.kioskea.net) is made available under the Creative Commons license. You can copy, modify copies of this page, under the conditions stipulated by the licence, as this note appears clearly.
 

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