Netgear WAC720 Users Manual
Dual-Band Wireless AC
Access Point
User Manual
Models WAC720 and WAC730
March 2018
202-11624-06
350 E. Plumeria Drive
San Jose, CA 95134
USA
Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Support
Thank you for purchasing this NETGEAR product.You can visit www.netgear.com/support to register your
product, get help, access the latest downloads and user manuals , and join our comm unity.We recommend that
you use only official NETGEAR support resources.
Conformity
For the current EU Declaration of Conformity, visit http://kb.netgear.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/11621.
Compliance
For regulatory compliance information, visit http://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory.
See the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.
Trademarks
© NETGEAR, Inc., NETGEAR, and the NETGEAR Logo are trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. An y non-NETGEAR
trademarks are used for reference purposes only.
Revision History
Part Number
April 2017202-11624-05
CommentsPublish DatePublication
Changed the product name and published the manual in a new format.March 2018202-11624-06
Revised Specify Captive Portal Profile Settings and Enable the Captive
Portal Instance on page 121.
Added Set Up Facebook Wi-Fi for a Captive Portal Profile on page 124.
Made the following changes to provide inf ormation about new and enhanced
features:
Revised Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point on
page 19.
Revised Configure and Enable WiFi Security Profiles on page 39.
Added Manage MAC Address Filter Profiles in the Local MAC Address
Database on page 50.
Revised Enable Rogue AP Detection and Monitor Rogue APs on page 53.
Revised Schedule the WiFi Radios to Be Turned Off on page 57.
Revised Monitor WiFi Clients on page 83.
Revised Configure Advanced WiFi Settings on page 106.
Revised Manage Captive Portals on page 120.
Added Configure the Access Point in Business Central Mode on page 143.
Changed cloud mode to Business Central mode throughout the manual.
Updated various figures throughout the manual.
2
Part Number
Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
CommentsPublish DatePublication
March 2016202-11624-04
Revised Mount the Access Point on page 30 to show the changes to the
access point mounting bracket.
Changed firmware version 3.5.4.0 to version 3.5.6.0 (see Log In to the
Access Point on page 16 and Disable Business Central Mode for a
Standalone Access Point on page 19).
Major revision with the following major changes:March 2016202-11624-03
Revised Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
Added Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point on
page 19.
Added View Dashboard Information on page 80.
Revised Configure and Enable WiFi Security Profiles on page 39.
Added Configure Load Balancing on page 118.
Revised Set Up, Manage, and Monitor Ensembles on page 87.
Revised Manage Captive Portals on page 120.
Removed the legacy 802.1x security option (RADIUS security option).
Removed the WPA and WPA-PSK (TKIP) security options.
In addition, made many minor changes plus the following nontechnical
changes:
202-11624-01
Increased the quality of all screen shots.
Replaced many screen shots.
Converted all procedures to standalone procedures.
Changed the name of the manual from Reference Manual to User Manual.
Revised Configure WiFi Bridging on page 132.February 2016202-11624-02
Revised Mount the Access Point on page 30.December
2015
First publication.October 2015202-11607-01
3
Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction and Hardware Overview
Unpack Your Access Point.....................................................................................9
Top Panel...............................................................................................................9
Rear Panel...........................................................................................................10
Access Point Label...............................................................................................11
Chapter 2 Initial Setup
What You Need Before You Begin........................................................................13
System Requirements.....................................................................................13
WiFi Equipment Placement and Range Guidelines........................................13
Ethernet Cabling Requirements......................................................................14
LAN Configuration Requirements....................................................................14
Hardware Requirements for Computers on Your LAN.....................................14
Operating Frequency Guidelines.....................................................................14
Requirements for Entering IP Addresses........................................................14
Install and Configure the Access Point................................................................15
Connect the Access Point to a Computer............................................................15
Log In to the Access Point...................................................................................16
Log In to the Access Point When It Is Directly Connected to Your Computer...17
Log In to the Access Point When It Is Connected to a Network With a DHCP
Server..............................................................................................................18
Local Browser Interface...................................................................................18
Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point..........................19
Configure Basic General System Settings...........................................................20
Configure Time Settings.......................................................................................22
Configure the IPv4 Settings.................................................................................23
Configure the Basic WiFi Settings........................................................................24
Configure 802.11bg/ng/bgn WiFi Settings.......................................................24
Configure 802.11a/a-na-ac WiFi Settings.......................................................27
Test Basic WiFi Connectivity................................................................................29
Mount the Access Point.......................................................................................30
Package Content of the Ceiling and Wall Installation Kit.................................30
Mount the Access Point to a Drop Ceiling.......................................................30
Mount the Access Point to a Wall....................................................................33
IPv4............................................................................................................14
IPv6............................................................................................................15
Chapter 3 Configure the WiFi Features and Security
WiFi Data Security Options..................................................................................37
WiFi Security Profiles...........................................................................................38
Configure and Enable WiFi Security Profiles..................................................39
About WPA2-PSK and WPA-PSK & WPA2-PSK.............................................46
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
About WPA2 With RADIUS and WPA & WPA2 With RADIUS.........................47
Change the QoS Policy for a WiFi Security Profile..........................................47
Configure RADIUS Server Settings.....................................................................48
Manage MAC Address Filter Profiles in the Local MAC Address Database........50
Add a MAC Address Filter Profile....................................................................51
Modify a MAC Address Filter Profile...............................................................52
Delete a MAC Address Filter Profile................................................................53
Enable Rogue AP Detection and Monitor Rogue APs.........................................53
Enable Rogue AP Detection............................................................................54
Monitor Rogue APs.........................................................................................55
Monitor Knows APs.........................................................................................56
Schedule the WiFi Radios to Be Turned Off.........................................................57
Configure Basic WiFi Quality of Service..............................................................59
Chapter 4 Manage and Monitor the Access Point
Enable Remote Management..............................................................................62
SNMP Management........................................................................................62
Secure Shell and Telnet Management.............................................................63
Manage the Access Point over a Telnet Connection.......................................64
Upgrade the Access Point Firmware....................................................................65
Upgrade the Firmware Over a Web Browser...................................................65
Upgrade the Firmware Over a TFTP Server...................................................66
Manage the Configuration File or Reset to Factory Defaults...............................67
Save the Configuration....................................................................................68
Restore the Configuration...............................................................................68
Restore the Access Point to the Factory Default Settings...............................69
Use the Local Browser Interface to Restore Factory Default Settings........70
Use the Reset Button to Restore Factory Default Settings.........................70
Reboot the Access Point Without Restoring the Default Configuration...........71
Change the Administrator Password....................................................................72
Manage User Accounts........................................................................................73
Add a New User Account................................................................................73
Change the Name for a User Account............................................................74
Change the Privilege for a User Account........................................................75
Reset the Password for a User Account..........................................................75
Delete a User Account....................................................................................76
Enable the Syslog Server....................................................................................76
Monitor the Access Point.....................................................................................77
View System Information.................................................................................78
View Dashboard Information...........................................................................80
View the Standalone Dashboard................................................................80
View the Ensemble Dashboard..................................................................81
Monitor WiFi Clients........................................................................................83
View the Activity Logs..........................................................................................85
View the Traffic Statistics......................................................................................86
Set Up, Manage, and Monitor Ensembles...........................................................87
Configure Enable Ensemble Mode..................................................................88
Manage an Ensemble.....................................................................................88
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Specify an Ensemble Management IP Address.........................................89
Configure Ensemble Security With a Passphrase......................................89
Specify an Ensemble’s Channel Assignment Settings...............................90
Manage Automatic Channel Assignment for an Ensemble........................91
Upgrade the Firmware of Ensemble Members F rom a Downloaded Firmware
File..............................................................................................................93
Upgrade the Firmware of Ensemble Members Over a TFTP Server..........95
Monitor an Ensemble......................................................................................96
Monitor the Status of the Ensemble...........................................................96
Monitor the Devices Connected to the Ensemble.......................................97
Monitor the Access Points and Networks Neighboring the Ensemble........98
Chapter 5 Configure Advanced Network and WiFi Features
Configure IPv6 Settings.....................................................................................101
Configure Spanning Tree Protocol, 802.1Q VLAN, and Link Layer Discovery
Protocol..............................................................................................................102
Configure STP and VLANs............................................................................102
Configure Ethernet LLDP..............................................................................104
Configure Bonjour..............................................................................................105
Configure Advanced WiFi Settings....................................................................106
Configure Advanced Quality of Service Settings...............................................109
Configure and Manage Quality of Service Policies............................................112
Configure a New QoS Policy.........................................................................112
Modify a QoS Policy......................................................................................117
Delete a QoS Policy......................................................................................118
Configure Load Balancing..................................................................................118
Manage Captive Por tals.....................................................................................120
Enable the Access Point to Register With Facebook.........................................121
Specify Captive P ortal Profile Settings and Enable the Captive Portal Instance.121
Set Up Facebook Wi-Fi for a Captive Portal Profile...........................................124
Add User Accounts to the Local Database for Captive Portal Access...............126
Upload a Custom Logo......................................................................................128
Configure a Default or Custom Captive Portal Splash Page..............................129
Enable the Global Captive Portal Mode.............................................................131
Configure WiFi Bridging.....................................................................................132
Point-to-Point Bridge and Point-to-Multipoint Bridge.....................................132
Configure a WiFi Bridge................................................................................133
Chapter 6 Troubleshooting
Troubleshoot the Basic Functions......................................................................137
Verify the Correct Sequence of Events at Startup.........................................137
No LEDs Are Lit on the Access Point............................................................137
The Active LED or the LAN LED Is Not Lit....................................................138
The WLAN LED Does Not Light....................................................................138
You Cannot Access the Internet or the LAN From a WiFi Computer.................138
You Cannot Configure the Access Point From a Browser..................................139
When You Enter a URL or IP Address a Time-Out Error Occurs.......................140
Troubleshoot a TCP/IP Network Using the Ping Utility.......................................140
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Test the LAN Path to Your Access Point........................................................140
Test the Path from Your Computer to a Remote Device................................141
Problems With Date and Time...........................................................................141
Use the Packet Capture Tool..............................................................................142
Appendix A Configure the Access Point in Business Central Mode
Enable Business Central Mode..........................................................................144
Configure the IP and 802.1Q VLAN Settings in Business Central Mode...........145
Reboot the Access Point in Business Central Mode..........................................146
Reset the Access Point in Business Central Mode to Factory Default Settings..147
Upgrade Access Point Firmware in Business Central Mode..............................148
Configure MAC Authentication in Business Central Mode.................................148
Add a MAC Address Filter Profile on an Access Point in Business Central
Mode.............................................................................................................149
Assign a MAC Address Filter Profile on an Access Point in Business Central
Mode.............................................................................................................151
Modify a MAC Address Filter Profile on an Access Point in Business Central
Mode.............................................................................................................153
Delete a MAC Address Filter Profile on an Access Point in Business Central
Mode.............................................................................................................154
Monitor the Access Point in Business Central Mode.........................................154
View the Activity Logs of an Access Point in Business Central Mode...........155
View Basic Information About the Access P oint In Business Centr al Mode...156
Appendix B Supplemental Information
Technical Specifications.....................................................................................158
Factory Default Settings.....................................................................................161
7
Introduction and Hardware Overview
This user manual describes how you can manage the NETGEAR Dual-Band Wireless A C Access Point models
WAC720 and WAC730 by using the local browser–based management interface, in this manual referred to as
the local browser interface.
The essential differences between the two models are the maximum theoretical WiFi throughput and the number
of supported optional dual-band antennas:
• Model WAC720. This model can support two optional dual-band antennas.The maximum theoretical WiFi
throughput is 300 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps in the 5 GHz band
• Model WAC730.This model can support three optional dual-band antennas.The maximum theoretical WiFi
throughput is 450 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz band and 1300 Mbps in the 5 GHz band
This chapter includes the following sections:
• Unpack Your Access Point
• Top Panel
• Rear Panel
• Access Point Label
1
For more information about the topics covered in this manual, visit the support website at
Note
netgear.com/support.
Firmware updates with new features and bug fixes are made available from time to time at
Note
downloadcenter.netgear.com. Some products can regularly check the site and download
new firmware, or you can check for and download new firmware manually. If the features or
behavior of your product does not match what is described in this guide, you might need to
update your firmware.
In this manual, WiFi and wireless are interchangeable terms.Note
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Unpack Your Access Point
Your package contains the following items:
• ProSAFE Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point
• Straight-through Category 5 Ethernet cable
• Ceiling and wall installation kit
• Installation guide
Contact your reseller or customer support in your area if any parts are missing or damaged.
Visit the NETGEAR website at support.netgear.com/general/contact/default.aspx f or the telephone n umber
of customer support in your area.
Top Panel
The following figure shows the LEDs on the top panel.
Figure 1.Top panel
The following table describes the LEDs on the top panel.
Introduction and Hardware Overview
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Table 1.Top panel LEDs
DescriptionLEDItem
Amber, then blinking
green
Power is off.OffPower/Test1
Power is on.On (green)
A self-test is running or firmware is being loaded. During
startup, the LED is first steady amber, then goes off , and
then blinks green before turning steady green after about
45 seconds. If after one minute the LED remains amber
or continues to blink green, it indicates a system fault.
No Ethernet traffic is detected, or no link is detected.OffActive2
Ethernet traffic is detected.On or blinking (green)
A 10 Mbps or no link is detected on LAN port.OffLAN3
A 100 Mbps link is detected on LAN port.Amber
A 1000 Mbps link is detected on LAN port.Green
4
WLAN
5
WLAN
Rear Panel
Figure 2. Rear panel
Off2.4 GHz
On or blinking (green)
Off5 GHz
On or blinking (green)
The WiFi 802.11b/g/n (2.4 GHz) LAN is not ready, or no
WiFi activity is detected.
The WiFi 802.11b/g/n (2.4 GHz) LAN is ready, or WiFi
activity is detected.
The WiFi 802.11n/a (5 GHz) LAN is not ready, or no WiFi
activity is detected.
The WiFi 802.11n/a (5 GHz) LAN is ready, or WiFi activity
is detected.
Introduction and Hardware Overview
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
The rear panel components of the access point, from left to right, are described in the following list:
1. Cable security lock receptacle for an optional lock.
2. Console port for connecting to an optional console terminal.The port provides an RJ-45 connector and
supports the following settings: 115200 K default baud rate, 8 data bits, no (N) parity bit, and one (1)
stop bit.
3. Factory default Reset button. Using a sharp object, press and hold this button for about five seconds
to reset the access point to factory defaults settings. All configuration settings are lost, and the default
password is restored. F or more information, see Restore the Access P oint to the Factory Default Settings
on page 69.
4. 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45) port with Auto Uplink (Auto MDI-X) and support for
IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE) for connection to a switch or router that can provide PoE.
5. Power socket for an optional 12 VDC, 2.5A power adapter.
The WAC720 access point can support up to two optional 2.4 GHz/5 GHz dual-band
Note
antennas.The W AC730 access point can support up to three optional 2.4 GHz/5 GHz
dual-band antennas.
Access Point Label
The access point label on the bottom of the access point’s enclosure displays factory default settings,
regulatory compliance, and other information.
Figure 3. Label model WAC720
Figure 4. Label model WAC730
Introduction and Hardware Overview
11
Initial Setup
This chapter includes the following sections:
• What You Need Before You Begin
• Install and Configure the Access Point
• Connect the Access Point to a Computer
• Log In to the Access Point
• Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point
• Configure Basic General System Settings
• Configure Time Settings
• Configure the IPv4 Settings
• Configure the Basic WiFi Settings
• Test Basic WiFi Connectivity
• Mount the Access Point
2
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
What You Need Before You Begin
You must consider the following guidelines and requirements before you can set up your access point.
System Requirements
Before installing the access point, make sure that your system includes the following:
• A 10/100/1000 Mbps local area network device such as a hub or switch
• The Category 5 UTP straight-through Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connector included in the package, or
one like it
• A PoE switch or a 12V, 2.5 A, DC power source
• A web browser for configuration
• At least one computer with the TCP/IP protocol installed
• 802.11bg/ng/bgn-compliant or 802.11a/a-na-ac-compliant devices
WiFi Equipment Placement and Range Guidelines
The range of your WiFi connection can vary significantly based on the location of the access point. The
latency , data throughput perf ormance, and power consumption of WiFi de vices also vary depending on your
configuration choices.
Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance degradation
Note
or inability to connect over WiFi to the access point. For complete performance
specifications, see Supplemental Information on page 157.
Before you position and mount the access point at its permanent position, first configure
Note
the access point and test the computers on your LAN for WiFi connectivity as described
in this chapter.
For best results, place your access point according to the following general guidelines:
• Near the center of the area in which the WiFi devices will operate.
• In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the WiFi de vices are in a line-of-sight (ev en if through
walls).
• Away from sources of interference, such as computers, microwaves ovens, and 2.4 GHz cordless
phones.
• Away from large metal surfaces or water.
• Placing an external antenna in a vertical position provides best side-to-side coverage . Placing an external
antenna in a horizontal position provides best up-and-down coverage. (An external antenna does not
come standard with the access point.)
Initial Setup
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
If you are using multiple access points, it is better if adjacent access points use different radio frequency
channels to reduce interference.The recommended channel spacing between adjacent access points is
five channels (for example, use Channels 1 and 6, or 6 and 11, or 1 and 11).
The time it takes to establish a WiFi connection can vary depending on both your security settings and
placement.
Ethernet Cabling Requirements
The access point connects to your LAN using twisted-pair Category 5 Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors.
LAN Configuration Requirements
For the initial configuration of your access point, you must connect a computer to the access point.
Hardware Requirements for Computers on Your LAN
To connect to the access point on your network, your WiFi de vice m ust support 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n,
802.11a, or 802.11ac. If y our computer does not include an internal WiFi adapter, we recommend using the
NETGEAR A6210 WiFi USB Adapter.
Operating Frequency Guidelines
You do not need to change the operating frequency (channel) unless you notice interference problems or
you place the access point near another access point. If you do change the operating frequency, observe
the following guidelines:
• Access points use a fixed channel.You can select a channel that provides the least interference and
best performance. In the United States and Canada, 11 channels are available.
• If you use multiple access points, it is better if adjacent access points use different channels to reduce
interference.The recommended channel spacing between adjacent access points is five channels (for
example, use Channels 1 and 6, or 6 and 11).
• In infrastructure mode (which is the default mode for the access point), WiFi stations normally scan all
channels, looking for a access point. If more than one access point can be used, the one with the
strongest signal is used.This is possible only if the access points use the same SSID.
Requirements for Entering IP Addresses
IP addresses assigned to the access points must follow the following requirements for IPv4 and IPv6
addresses.
IPv4
The fourth octet of an IP address must be between 0 and 255 (both inclusive).This requirement applies to
any IP address that you enter on the access point’s local browser interface.
Initial Setup
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
IPv6
IPv6 addresses are denoted by eight groups of hexadecimal quartets that are separated by colons. Any
four-digit group of zeroes within an IPv6 address can be reduced to a single zero or altogether omitted.
The following errors invalidate an IPv6 address:
• More than eight groups of hexadecimal quartets
• More than four hexadecimal characters in a quartet
• More than two colons in a row
Install and Configure the Access Point
Install and configure your access point in the order of the following sections:
1. Connect the Access Point to a Computer on page 15
2. Log In to the Access Point on page 16
3. Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point on page 19
4. Configure Basic General System Settings on page 20
5. Configure Time Settings on page 22
6. Configure the IPv4 Settings on page 23
7. Configure the Basic WiFi Settings on page 24
Before installing the access point, make sure that your Ethernet network functions. After you connect
the access point to the Ethernet network, computers that support 802.11b/g/a/n/ac are able to
communicate with the Ethernet network.
For this to work correctly, verify that you meet all the system requirements, shown in What You Need
Before You Begin on page 13.
Connect the Access Point to a Computer
Before you place the access point in an ele v ated position that is difficult to reach, first set
Tip
up and test the access point to verify WiFi network connectivity.
To set up the access point:
1. Unpack the box and verify the contents.
2. Prepare a computer with an Ethernet adapter.
If this computer is already part of your network, record its TCP/IP configuration settings. Configure the
computer with a static IP address of 192.168.0.210 and 255.255.255.0 as the subnet mask.
3. Connect an Ethernet cable from the access point to the computer.
4. Securely insert the other end of the cable into the access point’s Ethernet port.
5. Turn on your computer.
Initial Setup
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
6. Connect the access point to a PoE switch or power adapter.
The access point supports Power ov er Ethernet (PoE) with power redundancy. If y ou are
Tip
using a switch that provides PoE, you do not need to use a power adapter to power the
access point. Using PoE can be especially convenient when the access point is installed
in a high location far away from a power outlet.
7. Verify that the LEDs functions as indicated in the following table:
DescriptionLED
Power/Test LED.The Power/Test LED blinks when the access point is first turned on. (To be
exact, during startup, the LED is first steady amber, then goes off , and then blinks g reen.) After
about 45 seconds, the LED stays lit (steady green). If after one minute the Power/Test LED is
not lit or is still blinking, check the connections and see if the power outlet is controlled by a
wall switch that is turned off.
Active LED.The Active LED is lit or blinks green when Ethernet traffic is detected.
LAN LED.The LAN LED indicates the LAN speed for LAN port 1: green for 1000 Mbps, amber
for 100 Mbps, and no light for 10 Mbps. If the LAN LED is not lit, make sure that the Ethernet
cable is securely attached at both ends.
2.4 GHz WLAN LED.The 2.4 GHz WLAN LED is lit or blinks green when the WiFi LAN (WLAN)
is ready.
5 GHz WLAN LED. The 5 GHz WLAN LED is lit or blinks green when the WiFi LAN (WLAN)
is ready.
Log In to the Access Point
The default IP address of your access point is 192.168.0.100.
By default, the access point functions as a DHCP client. If the access point is installed in a network that
includes a DHCP server, the IP address of the access point is issued by the DHCP server.You can find the
IP address of the access point by accessing the DHCP server or by using an IP address scanner utility.
(Free IP address scanner utilities are available online.)
If you must configure the access point with a static IPv4 address, see the steps in Log In to the Access P oint
When It Is Directly Connected to Your Computer on page 17 and Configure the IPv4 Settings on page 23.
Initial Setup
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
When the access point runs firmware version 3.5.6.0 or a later version, by default, the
Note
access point is enabled for the cloud (that is, Business Central mode is enabled) and
operates with a limited local browser interface (only the Configuration and Monitoring
menu tabs display).
Log In to the Access Point When It Is Directly Connected to Your Computer
To log in to the access point when it is directly connected to your computer:
1. Change the IP address of your computer to an IP address in the 192.168.0.x subnet, which is the subnet
in which the access point’s default IP address is located.
2. For example, change the computer’s IP address to 192.168.0.210.
3. Connect your computer to the access point with an Ethernet cable.
4. Open a web browser on your computer.
5. In the address bar, enter http://192.168.0.100.
192.168.0.100 is the default IP address of the access point.
6. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
7. Click the Login button.
The web browser displays the General page under the Configuration tab. If you are using the access
point as a standalone access point or as an access point with a wireless controller, you must disable
Business Central mode (see Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point on page
19).
After you disable Business Central mode and you log in to the access point, the web browser displays
the Dashboard page under the Monitoring tab of the main menu. For more information, see View
Dashboard Information on page 80.
Initial Setup
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Log In to the Access Point When It Is Connected to a Network With a DHCP Server
To log in to the access point when it is connected to a network with a DHCP server.
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point.
2. In the address bar, enter the network IP address of the access point.
You can find the IP address of the access point by accessing the DHCP server or by using an IP address
scanner utility. (Free IP address scanner utilities are available online.)
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
4. Click the Login button.
The web browser displays the General page under the Configuration tab. If you are using the access
point as a standalone access point or as an access point with a wireless controller, you must disable
Business Central mode (see Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point on page
19).
After you disable Business Central mode and you log in to the access point, the web browser displays
the Dashboard page under the Monitoring tab of the main menu. For more information, see View
Dashboard Information on page 80.
Local Browser Interface
The navigation tabs across the top of the pages of the local browser interface provide access to all the
configuration functions of the access point and remain constant.The menu items in the blue bar change
according to the navigation tab that is selected.
The top right corner of all pages that allow you to make configuration changes show the Apply and Cancel
buttons, and on several pages the Edit button.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
These buttons provide the following functions:
• Edit. Allows you to edit the existing configuration.
• Cancel. Cancels all configuration changes that you made on the page.
• Apply. Saves and applies all configuration changes that you made on the page.
Disable Business Central Mode for a Standalone Access Point
When the access point runs firmware version 3.5.6.0 or a later version, by default, Business Central mode
(also referred to as cloud mode) is enabled f or the access point and the local browser interface is a restricted
interface that shows only the Configuration and Monitoring menu tabs with limited configuration options.
If you are using the access point as a standalone access point or as an access point with a wireless controller ,
you must disable Business Central mode.
For information about configuring the access point in Business Central mode, see
Configure the Access Point in Business Central Mode on page 143.
To disable Business Central mode:
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point or to
the access point directly through an Ethernet cable.
For more information, see Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
2. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the access point.
A login window opens.
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
Initial Setup
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
4. Select the Business Central Enabled No radio button.
5. Click the Apply button.
The access point restarts with factory default settings but retains its IP configuration and management
VLAN.
The access point is now ready for standalone operation with a full local browser interface.
Configure Basic General System Settings
To configure basic system settings:
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point or to
the access point directly through an Ethernet cable.
For more information, see Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
2. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the access point.
A login window opens.
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
4. Select Configuration > System > Basic > General.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
5. Configure the settings as described in the following table.
DescriptionSetting
Access Point Name
Country / Region
For information about the Business Central settings and about enabling Business
Note
This unique name is the access point NetBIOS name.The name is printed on the access
point label.The default is netgearxxxxxx, in which xxxxxx represents the last 6 digits of the
access point MAC address.You can replace the default name with a unique name up to 15
characters long.The access point name can be retrieved through SNMP.
From the Country / Region menu, select the country where the access point is installed.
Central mode, see Configure the Access Point in Business Central Mode on page
143.
6. Click the Apply button.
Your settings are saved.
Make sure that the country is set to the location where the device is
Note
operating.You are responsible for complying with the local, regional, and
national regulations that are set for channels, power le v els, and frequency
ranges.
It might not be legal to operate this access point in a region other than one
Note
of those identified in this field.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Configure Time Settings
To configure time settings:
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point or to
the access point directly through an Ethernet cable.
For more information, see Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
2. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the access point.
A login window opens.
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
4. Select Configuration > System > Basic > Time.
5. Configure the settings as described in the following table.
DescriptionSetting
Select the time zone to match your location.Time Zone
This is a nonconfigurable field that displays the current date and time.Current Time
NTP Client
Use Custom NTP Server
Enable the Network Time Protocol (NTP) client to synchronize the time of the access
point with an NTP server. By default the Enable radio button is selected.
Select this check box if you want to use a custom NTP server.
You need an Internet connection to use an NTP server that is not on your local network.
Hostname / IP Address
Enter the host name or IP address of the custom NTP server.
The default is time-b.netgear.com.
If you use a host name, make sure that y ou configured a DNS
server.
6. Click the Apply button.
Your settings are saved.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Configure the IPv4 Settings
For information about how to configure the IPv6 settings, see Configure IPv6 Settings
Note
on page 101.
WARNING:
If you enable the DHCP client, the IP address of the access point changes
when you click the Apply button, causing you to lose your connection to the
access point.You must use the new IP address to reconnect to the access
point.
If you enable the DHCP client on the access point, you can discover the new IP address
Tip
of the access point by accessing the DHCP server on your LAN, or by using a network
IP address scanner utility.
To configure the IPv4 settings:
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point or to
the access point directly through an Ethernet cable.
For more information, see Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
2. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the access point.
A login window opens.
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
4. Select Configuration > IP > IP Settings.
5. Configure the IPv4 settings as described in the following table.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
DescriptionSetting
DHCP Client
IP Address
IP Subnet Mask
Primary DNS Server
Secondary DNS Server
Network Integrity Check
By default, the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) client is enabled.The access
point receives its IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway settings automatically
from the DHCP server on your network when you connect the access point to your LAN.
Enter the IP address of your access point.The default IP address is 192.168.0.100.To
change the address, enter an unused IP address from the address range used on your
LAN, or enable DHCP the server.
Enter the network number portion of an IP address. Unless you are implementing
subnetting, enter 255.255.0.0 as the subnet mask.
Enter the IP address of the ISP gateway to which the access point connects.Default Gateway
Enter the IP address of the primary and secondary DNS servers. A DNS server is a host
on the Internet that translates Internet names (such as www.netgear.com) to n umeric IP
addresses.T ypically your ISP tr ansfers the IP address of one or tw o DNS servers to your
access point during login. If the ISP does not transf er an address, you m ust obtain it from
the ISP and enter it manually in this field.
Select this check box to validate that the upstream link is active before allowing WiFi
associations. Ensure that the default gateway is configured.
6. Click the Apply button.
Your settings are saved.
If you changed the IP address settings and want to log in to the access point again, you must use the
new IP address of the access point.
Configure the Basic WiFi Settings
For proper compliance and compatibility between similar products in your co verage area, y ou must configure
the 802.11bg/ng/bgn and 802.11a/a-na-ac settings correctly, including the operating channel and country.
You also must configure the basic WiFi network settings so that WiFi devices can connect to your network.
For other WiFi features, including WiFi security, see Configure the WiFi Features and Security on page 36.
WARNING:
If you configure the access point from a WiFi computer and y ou change the access
point’s SSID, channel, or WiFi security settings, you lose your WiFi connection
when you click the Apply button.You then must change the WiFi settings of y our
computer to match the access point’s new settings.
Configure 802.11bg/ng/bgn WiFi Settings
To configure the 802.11bg/ng/bgn WiFi settings:
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point or to
the access point directly through an Ethernet cable.
For more information, see Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
2. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the access point.
A login window opens.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
4. Select Configuration > Wireless > Basic > Wireless Settings.
Select the WiFi mode in the 2.4 GHz band:
• 11bg. 802.11b-compliant devices and 802.11g-compliant devices can connect to the access point.
• 11ng. 802.11n-compliant devices and 802.11g-compliant devices can connect to the access point
• 11bgn.This is the default setting. 802.11b-compliant devices, 802.11n-compliant devices and
802.11g-compliant devices can connect to the access point. If you keep the default setting, go to
step 8.
When you change the WiFi mode, the Turn Radio On check box is automatically cleared, and all fields,
buttons, and menus on the page are masked out.
5. Turn on the radio by selecting the Turn Radio On check box.
A pop-up window opens.
Under normal conditions, you want the radio to be turned on.Turning off the radio
Note
disables access through the access point, which can be helpful for configuration,
network tuning, or troubleshooting activities.
6. Click the OK button to confirm the change of WiFi mode.
The change does not take effect until y ou click the Apply button after y ou complete the WiFi configur ation.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
7. Specify the remaining WiFi settings as described the following table.
DescriptionsSetting
Wireless Network Name
(SSID)
Broadcast Wireless
Network Name (SSID)
Channel / Frequency
11ng and 11bgn modes
only
(For most networks, the
default settings work
fine.)
Output Power
Enter a 32-character (maximum) service set identifier (SSID); the characters are
case-sensitive.The default is NETGEAR_11ng.The SSID assigned to a WiFi device
must match the access point’s SSID f or the WiFi de vice to communicate with the access
point. If the SSIDs do not match, y ou do not get a WiFi connection to the access point.
Select the Yes radio button to enable the access point to broadcast its SSID, allowing
WiFi stations with a null (blank) SSID to adopt the access point’s SSID.Yes is the
default setting.To prevent the SSID from being broadcast, select the No radio button.
From the menu, select the channel that y ou want to use for your WiFi LAN.The available
WiFi channels and frequencies depend on the country and WiFi mode.The default
setting is Auto, which enab les the access point to automatically select the most suitable
channel.
However, you do not need to change the WiFi channel unless you experience
interference (indicated by lost connections or slow data tr ansfers). If this happens, you
might want to experiment with different channels to see which is the best. For more
information, see Operating Frequency Guidelines on page 14.
For more information about available channels and frequencies, see Technical
Specifications on page 158.
If the access point is a member of an ensemble for which automatic channel assignment
is enabled (see Manage Automatic Channel Assignment f or an Ensemble on page 91),
Auto is not available as a selection from the Channel / Frequency menu.
MCS Index / Data
Rate
Channel Width
Guard Interval
Data Rate11bg modes only
From the menu, select the transmission po wer of the access point:Full, Half, Quarter,
Eighth, Minimum.The default is Full.
Increasing the power improves performance, but if two or more access points are
operating in the same area and on the same channel, interference can occur.
Make sure that you comply with the regulatory requirements for total radio frequency
(RF) output power in your country.
From the menu, select a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS)
index and transmit data rate f or the WiFi network.The default setting
is Best. For a list of all options that you can select from in 11ng and
11bgn modes, see Factory Default Settings on page 161.
From the menu, select a channel width.The options are 20 MHz
and 40 MHz.The default is 40 MHz.
From the menu, select the guard interval to protect transmissions
from interference.The default is Auto, or you can select Long - 800
ns. Some legacy de vices can operate only with a long guard interval.
From the menu, select the transmit data rate of the WiFi network.
The default setting is Best. For a list of all options that y ou can select
from in 11bg mode, see Factory Default Settings on page 161.
8. Click the Apply button.
Your settings are saved.
For information about how to configure advanced WiFi settings, see Configure
Note
Advanced WiFi Settings on page 106.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Configure 802.11a/a-na-ac WiFi Settings
To configure the 802.11a/a-na-ac WiFi settings:
1. Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the access point or to
the access point directly through an Ethernet cable.
For more information, see Log In to the Access Point on page 16.
2. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the access point.
A login window opens.
3. Enter the user name and password.
The user name is admin.The default password is password.The user name and password are
case-sensitive.
4. Select Configuration > Wireless > Basic > Wireless Settings.
5. Select the WiFi mode in the 5 GHz band:
• 11a. 802.11n-compliant devices can connect to the access point because they are backward
compatible.
• 11a-na-ac.This is the default setting. If you keep the default setting, go to step 8.
When you change the WiFi mode , the Turn Radio On check box is automatically cleared, and all fields,
buttons, and menus on the page are masked out.
6. Turn on the radio by selecting the Turn Radio On check box.
A pop-up window opens.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
Under normal conditions, you want the radio to be turned on.Turning off the radio
Note
disables access through the access point, which can be helpful for configuration,
network tuning, or troubleshooting activities.
7. Click the OK button to confirm the change of WiFi mode.
The change does not take effect until y ou click the Apply button after y ou complete the WiFi configur ation.
8. Specify the remaining WiFi settings as described the following table.
DescriptionsSetting
Wireless Network Name
(SSID)
Broadcast Wireless
Network Name (SSID)
Channel / Frequency
11a-na-ac mode only
(For most networks, the
default settings work
fine.)
Enter a 32-character (maximum) service set identifier (SSID); the characters are
case-sensitive.The default is NETGEAR_11ac.The SSID assigned to a WiFi device
must match the access point’s SSID f or the WiFi de vice to communicate with the access
point. If the SSIDs do not match, y ou do not get a WiFi connection to the access point.
Select the Yes radio button to enable the access point to broadcast its SSID, allowing
WiFi stations with a null (blank) SSID to adopt the access point’s SSID.Yes is the
default setting.To prevent the SSID from being broadcast, select the No radio button.
From the menu, select the channel that y ou want to use for your WiFi LAN.The available
WiFi channels and frequencies depend on the country and WiFi mode.The default
setting is Auto, which enab les the access point to automatically select the most suitable
channel.
However, you do not need to change the WiFi channel unless you experience
interference (indicated by lost connections or slow data tr ansfers). If this happens, you
might want to experiment with different channels to see which is the best. For more
information, see Operating Frequency Guidelines on page 14.
For more information about available channels and frequencies, see Technical
Specifications on page 158.
If the access point is a member of an ensemble for which automatic channel assignment
is enabled (see Manage Automatic Channel Assignment f or an Ensemble on page 91),
Auto is not available as a selection from the Channel / Frequency menu.
MCS Index / Data
Rate
Channel Width
Guard Interval
From the menu, select a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS)
index and transmit data rate f or the WiFi network.The default setting
is Best. F or a list of all options that y ou can select from in 11a-na-ac
mode, see Factory Default Settings on page 161.
From the menu, select a channel width.The options are 20 MHz,
40 MHz, and 80 MHz.The default is 80 MHz.
From the menu, select the guard interval to protect transmissions
from interference.The default is Auto, or you can select Long - 800
ns. Some legacy de vices can operate only with a long guard interval.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
(Continued)
DescriptionsSetting
From the menu, select the transmit data rate of the WiFi network.
The default setting is Best. For a list of all options that y ou can select
from in 11a mode, see Factory Default Settings on page 161.
Output Power
9. Click the Apply button.
Your settings are saved.
For information about how to configure advanced WiFi settings, see Configure
Note
Advanced WiFi Settings on page 106.
Data Rate11a mode only
From the menu, select the transmission po wer of the access point:Full, Half, Quarter,
Eighth, Minimum.The default is Full.
Increasing the power improves performance, but if two or more access points are
operating in the same area and on the same channel, interference can occur.
Make sure that you comply with the regulatory requirements for total radio frequency
(RF) output power in your country.
Test Basic WiFi Connectivity
After you configure the access point, make sure that WiFi devices can connect to the access point before
you position and mount the access point at its permanent position.
To test for WiFi connectivity:
1. Configure your WiFi devices so that they can connect to a WiFI network that you configured on the
access point.
2. Verify that your WiFi devices acquired a WiFi link to the access point.
3. Verify network connectivity by using a browser to connect to the Internet, or check for file and printer
access on your network.
If you experience trouble connecting to the access point, see Troubleshooting on
Note
page 136.
We recommend that you complete the f ollowing tasks before y ou deploy the access point in y our network:
• Configure WiFi security and other WiFi features as described in Configure the WiFi Features and
Security on page 36.
• Configure any additional features that you might need as described in Manage and Monitor the
Access Point on page 61, and Configure Advanced Network and WiFi Features on page 100.
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Dual-Band Wireless AC Access Point WAC720 and WAC730 User Manual
After you complete the configuration of the access point, you can reconfigure the computer that you
used for this process back to its original TCP/IP settings.
Mount the Access Point
The following sections e xplain how to mount your access point.We recommend that you re view the inf ormation
in WiFi Equipment Placement and Range Guidelines on page 13 before you mount the access point at its
permanent position.
• Package Content of the Ceiling and Wall Installation Kit on page 30
• Mount the Access Point to a Drop Ceiling on page 30
• Mount the Access Point to a Wall on page 33
Package Content of the Ceiling and Wall Installation Kit
Figure 5. Ceiling and wall installation kit
The ceiling and wall installation kit contains the following components:
1. One access point mounting bracket
2. One wall mounting bracket
3. Four mounting screws with integrated washers for the access point mounting bracket
4. One T-bar screw for the access point mounting bracket
5. Four wall screws for the wall mounting bracket
6. Four wall anchors for the wall mounting bracket
Mount the Access Point to a Drop Ceiling
The best location for ceiling installation is at the center of your WiFi coverage area, and within line of sight
of all mobile devices. Mak e sure that the top (the dome side) of the access point is directed toward the users
and not the ceiling. Do not place the access point in a false ceiling space facing up.
Initial Setup
30
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