Netgear WBC502 User Manual

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User Manual

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502

NETGEAR, Inc.

350 E. Plumeria DriveApril 2020 San Jose, CA 95134, USA202-12051-03

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Support and Community

Visit netgear.com/support to get your questions answered and access the latest downloads.

You can also check out our NETGEAR Community for helpful advice at community.netgear.com.

Regulatory and Legal

Si ce produit est vendu au Canada, vous pouvez accéder à ce document en français canadien à https://www.netgear.com/support/download/.

(If this product is sold in Canada, you can access this document in Canadian French at https://www.netgear.com/support/download/.)

For regulatory compliance information including the EU Declaration of Conformity, visit https://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory/.

See the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.

For NETGEAR’s Privacy Policy, visit https://www.netgear.com/about/privacy-policy.

By using this device, you are agreeing to NETGEAR’s Terms and Conditions at https://www.netgear.com/about/terms-and-conditions. If you do not agree, return the device to your place of purchase within your return period.

Trademarks

Revision History

CommentsPublish DatePublication Part

Number

April 2020202-12051-03

Throughout the manual, we added information that you cannot use NETGEAR Insight to configure and manage the AirBridge if the operation mode is access point or client bridge. We revised Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111 and added two subsections: Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode on page 112 and Change the management mode to Standalone Mode on page 113.

We made multiple refinements, adjustments, and corrections.March 2020202-12051-02

First publication.February 2020202-12051-01

Chapter 1 Access the AirBridge and Use the Easy Setup Method

Related documentation.......................................................................8

Overview................................................................................................8

About NETGEAR Insight......................................................................9

AirBridge label....................................................................................10

Operation mode: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access Point,

or Client Bridge...................................................................................10

AirBridge mode..................................................................................12

Access the AirBridge for initial configuration.................................14

Connect over WiFi using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or

Android mobile device.................................................................15

Connect over the Internet using the NETGEAR Insight Cloud

portal...............................................................................................17

Connect over WiFi using a WiFi-enabled computer or mobile

device..............................................................................................18

Connect over Ethernet using a computer connected to the same

network............................................................................................23

Connect over Ethernet using a directly connected computer..28 Operation mode and default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup

configuration.......................................................................................33

Change the language of the local browser UI................................35

Chapter 2 Manually Configure or Change the Operation Mode

Recommendations for configuration...............................................38

Configure the AirBridge as a master in a point-to-point or

point-to-multipoint setup..................................................................38

Configure the AirBridge as a satellite in a point-to-point setup....40

Configure the AirBridge as an access point....................................42

Configure the AirBridge as a client bridge.....................................45

Chapter 3 Manage the Wired Network Settings

Specify a static IPv4 address for the AirBridge...............................50

Specify a link-local IPv6 address for the AirBridge.........................51

Reenable the DHCP client of the AirBridge....................................52

Manage the STP settings...................................................................53

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Chapter 4 Manage the WiFi and Radio Features

Recommended configuration order................................................57

Change the device name of the AirBridge......................................57

Change the country and region of operation.................................58

Change the AirBridge mode.............................................................59

Scan for neighboring access points.................................................62

Specify the approximate distance for the WiFi connection..........64

Manage the 5 GHz SSIDs and WiFi security....................................65

Change the 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a satellite...67

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the

AirBridge mode enabled..............................................................68

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the

AirBridge mode disabled.............................................................71

Change the 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a client

bridge..............................................................................................75

Change or configure a 5 GHz SSID for an access point............76

Configure a guest network on an access point..........................80

Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master or access point.81

Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client

bridge..............................................................................................84

Manage the settings for the 2.4 GHz management SSID..............86

Change the passphrase for the 2.4 GHz management SSID....86

Disable the idle time-out for the 2.4 GHz management SSID...87

Disable the 2.4 GHz management SSID.....................................88

Chapter 5 Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features

Recommended configuration order................................................91

Manage the channel high throughput mode.................................91

Manage the channel or channels.....................................................92

Manage the radio transmit power....................................................94

Change the bit rate............................................................................95

Manage client limits...........................................................................96

Manage time slot assignments to satellites.....................................98

Manage the satellite priority.............................................................99

Set up a WiFi on/off schedule for a 5 GHz SSID...........................100

Set up a MAC filter for a 5 GHz SSID..............................................102

Set up a RADIUS accounting server on a master or access point.104 Manually block a WiFi client or connection from a 5 GHz SSID..105

Configure traffic shaping for a 5 GHz SSID...................................106

Change the DHCP server settings for a guest WiFi network......108

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Chapter 6 Maintain the AirBridge

Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or

Standalone Mode.............................................................................111

Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode.112

Change the management mode to Standalone Mode..........113

Upgrade the firmware on the AirBridge.......................................113

Reboot the AirBridge from the local browser UI..........................115

Schedule the AirBridge to reboot..................................................116

Manage the configuration file of the AirBridge............................117

Back up the AirBridge configuration settings..........................117

Restore the AirBridge configuration settings...........................118

Reset the AirBridge to factory default settings.............................119

Manage the date and time settings...............................................120

Configure and view the logs...........................................................122

View and manage the system log..............................................122

Set up a remote log server.........................................................124

Set up email alerts............................................................................125

Manage access security settings....................................................127

Change the local login password..............................................127

Manage the HTTPS settings.......................................................128

Manage the SSH settings............................................................129

Specify a management VLAN.........................................................130

Chapter 7 Monitor the AirBridge and its Network Connections

View the device status and other information..............................133

View the 5 GHz WiFi connections..................................................137

View the CPU load on the AirBridge..............................................139

View the 5 GHz WiFi and LAN traffic load.....................................140

Chapter 8 Perform Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

Send a ping.......................................................................................142

Send a traceroute request...............................................................143

Send a name server lookup request..............................................144

Perform a speed test........................................................................145

Quick tips for troubleshooting.......................................................146

Troubleshoot with the LEDs............................................................149

Power LED remains off................................................................150

WLAN LED is off...........................................................................150

A LAN LED is off while a device is connected..........................151

Troubleshoot the WiFi connectivity...............................................152

Troubleshoot the WiFi connectivity between a satellite and a

master............................................................................................152

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Troubleshoot the WiFi connectivity between a client bridge and

an access point.............................................................................153

Troubleshoot the WiFi connectivity between a WiFi client and a

master or access point................................................................154

You cannot log in to the AirBridge over a LAN connection.......155

Changes are not saved....................................................................156

Troubleshoot your network using your computer ping utility....156

Test the LAN path from your computer to the AirBridge.......156

Test the path from your computer to a remote device...........157

Appendix A Factory Default Settings and Technical Specifications

Factory default settings...................................................................159

Technical specifications...................................................................161

Access the AirBridge and Use the Easy Setup Method

This user manual is for the NETGEAR Insight Instant Wireless AirBridge WBC502, in this manual, referred to as the AirBridge.

The AirBridge can provide an outdoor, long-distance, WiFi connection in a master–satellite configuration that lets you extend your main network to a detached site. You can also use the AirBridge as a long-range, point-to-point access point or client bridge.

This user manual complements the installation guide that came with your AirBridge and the hardware installation guide, which you can download by visiting netgear.com/support/download/. This chapter describes how you can access the AirBridge and configure the operation mode for your selected setup. The chapter includes the following sections:

• Related documentation

• Overview

• About NETGEAR Insight

• AirBridge label

• Operation mode: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge

• AirBridge mode

• Access the AirBridge for initial configuration

• Operation mode and default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration

• Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup

• Change the language of the local browser UI

Note: For more information about the topics that are covered in this manual, visit the support website at netgear.com/support/.

Note: Firmware updates with new features and bug fixes are made available from time to time at netgear.com/support/download/. 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 manual, you might need to update the firmware.

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Overview

The AirBridge is intended for environments where you need to extend your network to another building or across a large outdoor campus or yard while no wired network infrastructure is available.

The AirBridge can provide a long-distance, high performance, IEEE 802.11ac WiFi connection in the following setups:

Single master to single satellite. Point-to-point setup between two AirBridges in

• a configuration with a single master and single satellite with a long-distance reach

of 1.8 miles (3 km) or more. This setup requires a line of sight between the main and detached sites.

Single master to multiple satellites. Point-to-multipoint setup between multiple

• AirBridges in a configuration with a single master and up to four satellites with a

long-distance reach of 1.8 miles (3 km) or more. This setup requires a line of sight between the main and detached sites.

Outdoor access point. A setup that allows for a long-range WiFi reach in which an

• AirBridge functions as an access point that provides connections to WiFi clients, client bridges, or both.

Outdoor client bridge. A setup in which an AirBridge functions as a client bridge,

• providing a network connection to a wired device, such as an IP surveillance camera. The client bridge connects to the main network through a backhaul WiFi connection to a WiFi access point.

For information about application examples, see the hardware installation guide, which you can download from netgear.com/support/download/.

User Manual8Access the AirBridge and Use

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

You can mount the AirBridge outside to a wall or pole and provide power to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable that is connected to the provided power adapter, which must be installed indoors. The AirBridge integrates a high-gain directional antenna for a line of sight connection to other AirBridges or WiFi clients.

The AirBridge provides two 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ-45 LAN ports for network connections. One LAN port must be connected to the provided power adapter. Use Category 5e (Cat 5e) or higher-rated Ethernet cables terminated with RJ-45 connectors to make Gigabit connections.

For more information about the hardware, see the hardware installation guide.

The AirBridge provides administrative management options that let you configure, monitor, and control the AirBridge and the WiFi network:

Using the local browser user interface (UI) you can configure the AirBridge and set

• up a WiFi connection between two or more units in any of the supported operation modes. This manual (the user manual) describes the options that are available to you when you use the local browser UI.

Using NETGEAR Insight, you can set up a pair or a group of AirBridges, with one

• AirBridge functioning as the master and one or more other AirBridges functioning as satellites. For more information about NETGEAR Insight, visit netgear.com/insight and see the NETGEAR knowledge base articles at netgear.com/support.

About NETGEAR Insight

To configure and manage the AirBridge as a master or satellite in a point-to-point or point-to-multipoint setup, you can use NETGEAR Insight app on your iOS or Android mobile device and connect to the Insight cloud-based management platform. For Insight Premium and Insight Pro subscribers, the AirBridge also supports the Insight Cloud portal, which is the website that provides access to the Insight cloud-based management platform.

Note: At this time, NETGEAR Insight does not support the access point and client bridge operation modes. To configure and manage the AirBridge as an access point or client bridge, you first must change the management mode to Standalone Mode, and then use the local browser UI. For more information, see Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111.

This user manual describes the local browser UI. For more information about NETGEAR Insight, visit insight.netgear.com and see the NETGEAR knowledge base at netgear.com/support/product/insight.aspx.

User Manual9Access the AirBridge and Use

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

If you install the AirBridge as a NETGEAR Insight managed device, the settings for features that you can manage through the Insight app and Insight Cloud portal are masked out in the local browser UI. However, using the local browser UI, you can still manage the settings for certain features that are not yet supported in Insight. For more information, visit the NETGEAR knowledge base at netgear.com/support/product/insight.aspx and search for What is Hybrid Management Mode.

AirBridge label

The label on the back panel of the AirBridge shows the serial number, MAC address, default management WiFi network name (SSID), network key (password), and default login information of the AirBridge.

Operation mode: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge

The AirBridge can function in one of the following operation modes: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge.

With a WiFi link partner such as another AirBridge, you can provide network and Internet connectivity to a detached site where no wired infrastructure is available.

Note: Closely related to the AirBridge operation mode is the AirBridge mode (that is, without the term operation). If the operation mode for the AirBridge is AirBridge Master or AirBridge Satellite, you can enable or disable the AirBridge mode. For more information, see AirBridge mode on page 12.

The AirBridge can function in one of the following operation modes:

AirBridge Master. The AirBridge functions as a master in a point-to-point setup or

• point-to-multipoint setup. You install the master at a main site to provide long-distance network and Internet connectivity to a satellite at one or more detached sites. This

setup requires a line of sight between the main site and each detached site. By default, the AirBridge mode is enabled, which is the setting that we recommend for a master-to-satellite setup. Depending on your network situation, your WiFi requirements, and your understanding of the consequences, you can disable the AirBridge mode.

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Note: We do not recommend that you use a master and several satellites to create

a multi-building campus network backbone.

AirBridge Satellite. The AirBridge functions as a satellite in a master-to-satellite

• setup. You install the satellite at a detached site. The master provides long-distance

network and Internet connectivity to the satellite. This setup requires a line of sight between the detached site and main site. By default, the AirBridge mode is enabled, which is the setting that we recommend for a master-to-satellite setup. However, the AirBridge mode must be the same as on the master with which the satellite associates. If the AirBridge mode is disabled on the master, you must also disable it on the satellite.

Access Point. The AirBridge functions as a regular WiFi access point to provide

• network and Internet connectivity to any of the following types of WiFi link partners:

An AirBridge that functions as a client bridge

- WiFi clients at an extended range

Another type of access point

Note: To configure and manage the AirBridge as an access point, you first must change the management mode to Standalone Mode, and then use the local browser UI. For more information, see Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111. At this time, NETGEAR Insight does not support the access point operation mode.

Client Bridge. The AirBridge functions as a client bridge at a detached site to provide

• network and Internet connectivity to a wired device such as an IP surveillance camera. The client bridge connects to a WiFi access point at the main site. This access point

can be an AirBridge or another type of access point.

Note: To configure and manage the AirBridge as a client bridge, you first must change the management mode to Standalone Mode, and then use the local browser UI. For more information, see Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111. At this time, NETGEAR Insight does not support the operation mode.

For information about configuring the operation mode, see Access the AirBridge for initial configuration on page 14 and Manually Configure or Change the Operation Mode on page 37.

The following table shows the features that are determined by the operation mode that you select. For the AirBridge Master and AirBridge Satellite operation modes, the table

User Manual11Access the AirBridge and Use

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

also shows the features that are determined by whether the AirBridge mode is enabled or disabled.

Table 1. Features determined by the operation mode and the AirBridge mode

Client BridgeAccess PointAirBridge SatelliteAirBridge MasterFeature

AirBridge

mode

enabled

WiFi range

WiFi link partners

5 GHz SSIDs

Management option

1. The AirBridge mode setting on the satellite must be the same as the one on the master.

2. Reliable long-distance WiFi connection of 1.8 miles (3 km) or more for a limited number of satellites.

3. Powerful antenna for a reliable extended-range WiFi connection for multiple individual WiFi clients.

Long distance

AirBridge satellite only

Standalone Mode4or NETGEAR Insight

AirBridge

mode

disabled

Extended

range

AirBridge, any WiFi AP, and WiFi clients

Standalone Mode4or NETGEAR Insight

AirBridge

mode

enabled

Long distance

AirBridge master only

Standalone Mode4or NETGEAR Insight

AirBridge

mode

disabled

Extended

range

AirBridge master only

Standalone Mode4or NETGEAR Insight

AirBridge mode N/A

Extended range

WiFi clients, AirBridge AP, and any WiFi AP

Standalone Mode4only

AirBridge mode N/A

Extended range

N/AN/AN/ARequiredN/ARequiredLine of sight

AirBridge AP or any WiFi AP

181141Number of

Standalone Mode4only

4. Standalone Mode lets you use all options of the local browser UI.

AirBridge mode

The AirBridge mode specifies the type of multiple access method that the AirBridge uses.

Note: Closely related to the AirBridge mode is the AirBridge operation mode (that is, with the term operation). For more information, see Operation mode: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge on page 10.

You can select the AirBridge mode only if the operation mode of the AirBridge is AirBridge Master or AirBridge Satellite. In a master-to-satellite setup, you must either enable or disable the AirBridge mode on both the master and the satellite. (Do not enable it on one and disable it on the other.)

User Manual12Access the AirBridge and Use

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

The AirBridge mode determines the following characteristics on the AirBridge:

AirBridge mode enabled:

Highly reliable connections for a limited number of WiFi devices. Provides

• reliable point-to-point connections between a master and a satellite and

point-to-multipoint connections between a master and a limited number of satellites.

Best suited for long distance for a limited number of WiFi devices. A master can

• connect over a long distance of 1.8 miles (3 km) or more to a satellite at a detached

site.

Single 5 GHz SSID. A single 5 GHz SSID provides the backhaul WiFi connection

• between the master and the satellites.

No individual WiFi clients supported. Other than the satellites, individual WiFi

• clients cannot connect to the 5 GHz SSID. However, by connecting a switch and a

WiFi access point to the satellite, you can support multiple WiFi clients at the detached site.

Another AirBridge as a link partner only. An AirBridge and one or more other

• AirBridges can establish WiFi connections. You cannot use any other types of access points as link partners.

AirBridge mode disabled:

Reliable connections for multiple WiFi devices. Provides reliable

• point-to-multipoint connections between an access point and multiple individual

WiFi clients.

Best suited for extended range for multiple WiFi devices. The powerful antenna

• of the AirBridge supports a WiFi range that extends beyond the range of most access

points.

Multiple 5 GHz SSIDs. Multiple 5 GHz SSIDs can support satellites, client bridges,

• and individual WiFi clients.

Individual WiFi clients supported. Individual WiFi clients can connect to the

• AirBridge.

Any access point as a link partner. Any access point, including third-party access

• points, can establish a WiFi connection with an AirBridge.

Note: For information about configuring the AirBridge mode, see Manually Configure or Change the Operation Mode on page 37, and Change the AirBridge mode on page

59.

the Easy Setup Method

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Access the AirBridge for initial configuration

Depending on your network situation, setup, and preference, you can use different management options to connect to the AirBridge for initial configuration.

Table 2. Operation mode and management mode options

Operation Mode

point-to-multipoint setup

or point-to-multipoint

1. Standalone Mode lets you use all options of the local browser UI.

2. NETGEAR Insight Mode lets you use the Insight app or Cloud Portal.

Management Mode Standalone Mode

Management Mode NETGEAR Insight Mode

SupportedSupportedAirBridge Master, point-to-point or

SupportedSupportedAirBridge Satellite, point-to-point

Not supportedSupportedAccess Point

Not supportedSupportedSatellite

Depending on the operation mode (see Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111), you can access and configure the AirBridge by using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device, by using the Insight Cloud portal, or by using the local browser UI. You cannot combine Insight management with management over the local browser UI. These types of management are mutually exclusive. However, even if you use Insight management, you can still access the local browser UI for a limited number of options.

The Insight app and the Insight Cloud portal provide ease of access and let you configure most features that are available on the AirBridge, except for the access point and client bridge operation modes. However, the local browser UI lets you configure all features that are available on the AirBridge, including the access point and client bridge operation modes.

CAUTION: This device must be professionally installed. It is the installer’s responsibility

to follow local country regulations, including operations within legal frequency channels, output power, and DFS requirements. The vendor, reseller, or distributor is not responsible for illegal wireless operations. For more details, see the device’s terms and conditions.

User Manual14Access the AirBridge and Use

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Determine your access and configuration method and then see the information in the relevant section in this manual:

Insight app or the Insight Cloud portal. If you use the Insight app or the Insight

• Cloud portal to access and configure the AirBridge as a master or satellite, see one

of the following sections:

- Connect over WiFi using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile

device on page 15

- Connect over the Internet using the NETGEAR Insight Cloud portal on page 17

Local browser UI. If you use the local browser UI to access and configure the

• AirBridge in any operation mode, see one of the following sections:

- Connect over WiFi using a WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device on page 18

- Connect over Ethernet using a computer connected to the same network on

page 23

- Connect over Ethernet using a directly connected computer on page 28

Connect over WiFi using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device

You can install the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device to configure and manage the AirBridge as a master or satellite.

Note: At this time, the NETGEAR Insight app does not support the access point and client bridge operation modes. To configure and manage the AirBridge as an access point or client bridge, you first must change the management mode to Standalone Mode, and then use the local browser UI. For more information, see Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111.

IMPORTANT: If you add the AirBridge to a NETGEAR Insight network location and manage the AirBridge through the Insight app or Insight Cloud portal, the local device password for the AirBridge changes. That is, the Insight network password for that location replaces the local device password. To access the local browser UI, you must then enter the Insight network password and not the local device password. If you later decide to remove the AirBridge from the Insight network location or change the management mode to Standalone Mode (see Change the management mode to Standalone Mode on page 113), you must continue to use the Insight network password to access the local browser UI until you manually change the local device password on the AirBridge.

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For more information about the Insight app, visit insight.netgear.com and see the NETGEAR knowledge base at netgear.com/support/product/insight.aspx.

To connect to the AirBridge over WiFi using an iOS or Android mobile device:

On your iOS or Android mobile device, go to the app store, search for NETGEAR Insight, and download the latest version of the Insight app.

For initial discovery and configuration, connect your mobile device to the WiFi network that is connected to the same network to which the AirBridge is connected.

Note: For initial discovery and configuration, do not connect your smartphone to the default management SSID of the AirBridge.

3. Open the Insight app.

If you did not set up a NETGEAR account, tap Create NETGEAR Account and follow the onscreen instructions.

Enter the email address and password for your account and tap LOG IN. After you log in to your account, the IP address of the AirBridge displays in the device

list.

6. Write down the AirBridge IP address. You can use the IP address to connect to the local browser UI of the AirBridge using

an Ethernet connection when your computer is connected to the same network as the AirBridge. For more information, see Connect over Ethernet using a computer connected to the same network on page 23.

To use the Insight app (instead of the local browser UI) to configure and manage the AirBridge, tap the AirBridge, and follow the prompts to register the AirBridge and add it to an Insight network location.

the Easy Setup Method

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Connect over the Internet using the NETGEAR Insight Cloud portal

The Insight Cloud portal is available for Insight Premium or Insight Pro subscribers. To use the NETGEAR Insight Cloud portal to configure and manage the AirBridge as a master or satellite, the AirBridge must already be connected to the Internet.

Note: At this time, the NETGEAR Insight Cloud portal does not support the access point and client bridge operation modes. To configure and manage the AirBridge as an access point or client bridge, you first must change the management mode to Standalone Mode, and then use the local browser UI. For more information, see Change the management mode to NETGEAR Insight Mode or Standalone Mode on page 111.

IMPORTANT: If you add the AirBridge to a NETGEAR Insight network location and manage the AirBridge through the Insight app or Insight Cloud portal, the local device password for the AirBridge changes. That is, after you add the AirBridge to an Insight network location, the Insight network password for that location replaces the local device password. To access the local browser UI, you must then enter the Insight network password and not the local device password. If you later decide to remove the AirBridge from the Insight network location or change the management mode to Web-browser mode (see Change the management mode to Standalone Mode on page 113), you must continue to use the Insight network password to access the local browser UI until you manually change the local device password on the AirBridge.

For more information about the Insight Cloud portal and the configuration and management options that are available through the Insight Cloud portal, visit insight.netgear.com and see the NETGEAR knowledge base at netgear.com/support/product/insight.aspx.

To connect to the AirBridge over the Internet through the Insight Cloud portal:

1. Visit insight.netgear.com. The NETGEAR Account Login page displays.

2. Enter your Insight email address and password. If you do not own an Insight account, you can create one.

3. Click the Login button. After you log in, you can do the following:

Add the AirBridge to the Cloud portal by entering its serial number.

•

Add the AirBridge to an Insight network location.

•

Configure and manage the AirBridge.

•

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Connect over WiFi using a WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device

This section describes how to connect to the AirBridge for the first time over WiFi using a WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device (without using the NETGEAR Insight app).

For this procedure, do not connect the AirBridge to a network with a DHCP server, otherwise you cannot access the AirBridge at its default IP address of 192.168.0.100.

To connect to the AirBridge over WiFi using a WiFi-enabled computer or mobile device:

1. From your computer or mobile device, connect over WiFi to the AirBridge’s management WiFi network.

The management SSID is on the AirBridge label on the bottom of the AirBridge and is shown in the format NETGEARxxxxxx-SETUP, where xxxxxx is the last six hexadecimal digits of the AirBridge’s MAC address. The default password is sharedsecret.

2. On the computer or mobile device, open a web browser and, in the address bar, enter https://192.168.0.100.

When the AirBridge is not connected to a network with a DHCP server, the default IP address of the AirBridge is 192.168.0.100.

The Day Zero Easy Setup page displays.

If your browser does not open the Day Zero Easy Setup page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, do one of the following:

Google Chrome. If Google Chrome displays a Your connection is not private

•

message, click the ADVANCED link. Then, click the Proceed to 192.168.0.100

(unsafe) link.

Apple Safari. If Apple Safari displays a This connection is not private message,

•

click the Show Details button. Then, click the visit this website link. If a warning pop-up window opens, click the Visit Website button. If another pop-up window

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opens to let you confirm changes to your certificate trust settings, enter your Mac user name and password and click the Update Setting button.

Mozilla Firefox. If Mozilla Firefox displays a Your connection is not secure

•

message, click the ADVANCED button. Then, click the Add Exception button. In the pop-up window that opens, click the Confirm Security Exception button.

Microsoft Internet Explore. If Microsoft Internet Explorer displays a There is a

•

problem with this website’s security certificate message, click the Continue to this website (not recommended) link.

Microsoft Edge. If Microsoft Edge displays a There is a problem with this website’s

•

security certificate message or a similar warning, select Details > Go on to the webpage.

4. Select the Standalone Mode radio button.

Note: After you save the basic settings that are shown on the page, the Day Zero

Easy Setup page no longer displays when you log in. Instead, a login window opens. After you log in, the Dashboard page displays.

Enter the settings that are described in the following table.

User Manual19Access the AirBridge and Use

the Easy Setup Method

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Country/Region

Time Zone

DHCP Client

AP Name

From the menu, select the country and region in which the AirBridge is operating.

Note: Make sure that the country is set to the location where the device is operating. You

are responsible for complying with the local, regional, and national regulations that are

set for channels, power levels, and frequency ranges.

Note: It might not be legal to operate the AirBridge in a region other than the regions

listed in the menu. If your country or region is not listed, check with your local government

agency.

From the menu, select the time zone for the country and region in which the AirBridge is

operating.

By default, the DHCP client of the AirBridge allows the AirBridge to receive an IP address

from a DHCP server (or router that functions as a DHCP server) in your network.

To set up the AirBridge with a static (fixed) IP address, do the following:

a. Select the Disable radio button.

Additional fields display.

b. Specify the IP address, IP subnet mask, IP address of the default gateway, and IP address

of the DNS server.

As an option, enter a new device name for the AirBridge. The name must contain

alphanumeric characters, cannot be longer than 15 characters, and cannot contains spaces.

The name can contain hyphens, but cannot start or end with a hyphen.

By default, the device name is WBC502, which is the AirBridge’s model number.

AP Login New

Password

the Easy Setup Method

Enter a new local device password. This is the password that you must use to log in to the

AirBridge’s local browser UI. (It is not the password that you use for WiFi access.)

The password must be 8 to 32 characters in length and must contain at least one uppercase

letter, one lowercase letter, and one number. The following special characters are allowed:

! @ # $ % ^ & * ( )

Write down and save the password for future use.

Enter exactly the same password that you entered in the AP Login New Password field.Confirm New

User Manual20Access the AirBridge and Use

(Continued)

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Operation Mode

SSID

From the menu, select the operation mode that the AirBridge must function in:

AirBridge Master

•

AirBridge Satellite

•

Access Point

•

Client Bridge

•

For information about the operation modes, see Operation mode: AirBridge Master,

AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge on page 10 and Operation mode and

default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration on page 33.

Enter a name for the 5 GHz SSID. You can use a maximum of 32 characters with a

combination of alphanumeric and special characters, except for quotation marks (") and

a backslash (\).

The function of the 5 GHz SSID depends on the operation mode:

AirBridge master and satellite. The 5 GHz SSID is the backhaul WiFi connection

• between the master and the satellite.

Access point. The 5 GHz SSID is the WiFi network that the access point broadcasts.

•

Client bridge. The 5 GHz SSID is the WiFi extension between the client bridge and the

• base station.

Authentication

Passphrase

the Easy Setup Method

From the menu, select one of the following authentication types for the 5 GHz SSID:

Open. Authentication is not required and data encryption is not supported. This setting

• does not provide any security and is not appropriate for most situations.

WPA2-AES. This option allows the 5 GHz SSID to be secured with a WPA2 passphrase.

• This option uses AES encryption. All devices that use the 5 GHz SSID must be capable

of supporting WPA2-AES.

After you complete the setup process, you can set up WPA2 Enterprise security with

RADIUS servers. For more information, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master

or access point on page 81 or Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client

bridge on page 84.

Unless you selected Open from the Authentication Type menu, enter a new passphrase

(network key or WiFi password) for the 5 GHz SSID.

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

User Manual21Access the AirBridge and Use

(Continued)

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Management

SSID

Management

WPA2

Passphrase

The management SSID lets you connect from your WiFi-enabled computer or mobile

device to the AirBridge to configure and manage the it. This management SSID is not

used for backhaul or regular WiFi client connections.

For more information, see Manage the settings for the 2.4 GHz management SSID on

page 86.

Enter a new passphrase (network key or WiFi password) for the management SSID. This

passphrase replaces the default passphrase (sharedsecret).

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

After about one minute the AirBridge is back online.

This process takes about one minute.

7. Reconnect over WiFi to the AirBridge’s management SSID using the new passphrase that you just defined on the Day Zero Easy Setup page.

In the web browser, enter https://192.168.0.100. If you assigned a static IP address to the AirBridge, enter that IP address.

The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see the information in Step 3.

10. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you just defined

on the Day Zero Easy Setup page. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

11. In the TERMS OF USE section, click the NETGEAR’s Terms and Conditions link, and read the terms of use.

12.

If you agree, select the check box to acknowledge that you read and agree with the terms of use.

You need to select this check box only once. Subsequent times that you log in, the check box is preselected.

13. Click the Login button. The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

You can now customize the AirBridge settings for your network environment.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual22Access the AirBridge and Use

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Connect over Ethernet using a computer connected to the same network

The following procedure assumes that your network includes a DHCP server (or router that functions as a DHCP server) and that the AirBridge and the computer are on the same network. By default, the AirBridge functions as a DHCP client. If you want to set up the AirBridge with a static (fixed) IP address, see Connect over Ethernet using a directly connected computer on page 28.

To connect to the AirBridge using a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge:

1. To determine the IP address that the DHCP server assigned to the AirBridge, use one of the following methods:

Windows-based computer. If you use a Windows-based computer, open

•

Windows Explorer, and click the Network link. If prompted, enable the Network Discovery feature. Under Network Infrastructure, locate the WBC502 (assuming that you did not change the device name), and double-click WBC502.

DHCP server. Access the DHCP server in your network and open the page the

•

shows the network connections.

IP network scanner. Use an IP network scanner to scan for the IP address that

•

is assigned to the AirBridge.

NETGEAR Insight app. Use the NETGEAR Insight app to discover the IP address

•

that is assigned to the AirBridge. For more information, see Connect over WiFi using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device on page

15.

2. On the computer, open a web browser and, in the address bar, enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge.

The Day Zero Easy Setup page displays.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual23Access the AirBridge and Use

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

If your browser does not open the Day Zero Easy Setup page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, do one of the following:

Google Chrome. If Google Chrome displays a Your connection is not private

•

message, click the ADVANCED link. Then, click the Proceed to x.x.x.x (unsafe) link, in which x.x.x.x represents the IP address of the AirBridge.

Apple Safari. If Apple Safari displays a This connection is not private message,

•

click the Show Details button. Then, click the visit this website link. If a warning pop-up window opens, click the Visit Website button. If another pop-up window opens to let you confirm changes to your certificate trust settings, enter your Mac user name and password and click the Update Setting button.

Mozilla Firefox. If Mozilla Firefox displays a Your connection is not secure

•

message, click the ADVANCED button. Then, click the Add Exception button. In the pop-up window that opens, click the Confirm Security Exception button.

Microsoft Internet Explore. If Microsoft Internet Explorer displays a There is a

•

problem with this website’s security certificate message, click the Continue to this website (not recommended) link.

Microsoft Edge. If Microsoft Edge displays a There is a problem with this website’s

•

security certificate message or a similar warning, select Details > Go on to the webpage.

4. Select the Standalone Mode radio button.

Note: After you save the basic settings that are shown on the page, the Day Zero

Easy Setup page no longer displays when you log in. Instead, a login window opens. After you log in, the Dashboard page displays.

User Manual24Access the AirBridge and Use

the Easy Setup Method

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Enter the settings that are described in the following table.

DescriptionSetting

Country/Region

Time Zone

DHCP Client

AP Name

From the menu, select the country and region in which the AirBridge is operating.

Note: Make sure that the country is set to the location where the device is operating. You

are responsible for complying with the local, regional, and national regulations that are

set for channels, power levels, and frequency ranges.

Note: It might not be legal to operate the AirBridge in a region other than the regions

listed in the menu. If your country or region is not listed, check with your local government

agency.

From the menu, select the time zone for the country and region in which the AirBridge is

operating.

By default, the DHCP client of the AirBridge allows the AirBridge to receive an IP address

from a DHCP server (or router that functions as a DHCP server) in your network.

To set up the AirBridge with a static (fixed) IP address, do the following:

a. Select the Disable radio button.

Additional fields display.

b. Specify the IP address, IP subnet mask, IP address of the default gateway, and IP address

of the DNS server.

As an option, enter a new device name for the AirBridge. The name must contain

alphanumeric characters, cannot be longer than 15 characters, and cannot contains spaces.

The name can contain hyphens, but cannot start or end with a hyphen.

By default, the device name is WBC502, which is the AirBridge’s model number.

AP Login New

Password

the Easy Setup Method

Enter a new local device password. This is the password that you must use to log in to the

AirBridge’s local browser UI. (It is not the password that you use for WiFi access.)

The password must be 8 to 32 characters in length and must contain at least one uppercase

letter, one lowercase letter, and one number. The following special characters are allowed:

! @ # $ % ^ & * ( )

Write down and save the password for future use.

Enter exactly the same password that you entered in the AP Login New Password field.Confirm New

User Manual25Access the AirBridge and Use

(Continued)

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Operation Mode

SSID

From the menu, select the operation mode that the AirBridge must function in:

AirBridge Master

•

AirBridge Satellite

•

Access Point

•

Client Bridge

•

For information about the operation modes, see Operation mode: AirBridge Master,

AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge on page 10 and Operation mode and

default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration on page 33.

Enter a name for the 5 GHz SSID. You can use a maximum of 32 characters with a

combination of alphanumeric and special characters, except for quotation marks (") and

a backslash (\).

The function of the 5 GHz SSID depends on the operation mode:

AirBridge master and satellite. The 5 GHz SSID is the backhaul WiFi connection

• between the master and the satellite.

Access point. The 5 GHz SSID is the WiFi network that the access point broadcasts.

•

Client bridge. The 5 GHz SSID is the WiFi extension between the client bridge and the

• base station.

Authentication

Passphrase

the Easy Setup Method

From the menu, select one of the following authentication types for the 5 GHz SSID:

Open. Authentication is not required and data encryption is not supported. This setting

• does not provide any security and is not appropriate for most situations.

WPA2-AES. This option allows the 5 GHz SSID to be secured with a WPA2 passphrase.

• This option uses AES encryption. All devices that use the 5 GHz SSID must be capable

of supporting WPA2-AES.

After you complete the setup process, you can set up WPA2 Enterprise security with

RADIUS servers. For more information, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master

or access point on page 81 or Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client

bridge on page 84.

Unless you selected Open from the Authentication Type menu, enter a new passphrase

(network key or WiFi password) for the 5 GHz SSID.

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

User Manual26Access the AirBridge and Use

(Continued)

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Management

SSID

Management

WPA2

Passphrase

The management SSID lets you connect from your WiFi-enabled computer or mobile

device to the AirBridge to configure and manage the it. This management SSID is not

used for backhaul or regular WiFi client connections.

For more information, see Manage the settings for the 2.4 GHz management SSID on

page 86.

Enter a new passphrase (network key or WiFi password) for the management SSID. This

passphrase replaces the default passphrase (sharedsecret).

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

6. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

After about one minute the AirBridge is back online.

The login page displays.

If the login page does not display automatically, take one of the following actions:

If you assigned a static IP address to the AirBridge, enter that IP address in the

•

address bar of the web browser.

If you did not assign a static IP address, reenter the IP address that is displayed

•

in the address bar of the web browser. If that does not work, write down the IP address, close the web browser, reopen the web browser, and then reenter the IP address in the address bar of the web browser.

If you did not assign a static IP address and you closed the page so that you

•

cannot see the IP address of the AirBridge, use an IP scanner tool, use a network discovery tool, or access the DHCP server to discover the IP address of the AirBridge in your network. Then, open a browser and enter the IP address in the address bar of the web browser.

If your browser does not open the login page but displays a security message

•

and does not let you proceed, see the information in Step 3.

8. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you just defined

on the Day Zero Easy Setup page. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

9. In the TERMS OF USE section, click the NETGEAR’s Terms and Conditions link, and read the terms of use.

User Manual27Access the AirBridge and Use

the Easy Setup Method

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

10.

If you agree, select the check box to acknowledge that you read and agree with the terms of use.

You need to select this check box only once. Subsequent times that you log in, the check box is preselected.

11. Click the Login button. The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

You can now customize the AirBridge settings for your network environment.

Connect over Ethernet using a directly connected computer

If your network does not include a DHCP server (or router that functions as a DHCP server), you can use a computer that is connected through an Ethernet cable to the LAN port of the AirBridge.

To connect to the AirBridge using a computer that is connected to a LAN port of the AirBridge:

Record the IP address and subnet mask of your computer so that you can reinstate these IP address settings later.

2. Temporarily change the IP address on your computer to 192.168.0.210 with

255.255.255.0 as the subnet mask. (You can actually use any IP address in the 192.168.0.2–192.168.0.254 range, with

the exception of IP address 192.168.0.100, which is the default IP address of the AirBridge.)

For more information about changing the IP address on your computer, see the help or documentation for your computer.

3. Use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the LAN2 port on the AirBridge.

4. On the computer, open a web browser and enter 192.168.0.100 in the address bar.

The Day Zero Easy Setup page displays.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual28Access the AirBridge and Use

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

If your browser does not open the Day Zero Easy Setup page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, do one of the following:

Google Chrome. If Google Chrome displays a Your connection is not private

•

message, click the ADVANCED link. Then, click the Proceed to 192.168.0.100

(unsafe) link.

Apple Safari. If Apple Safari displays a This connection is not private message,

•

Mozilla Firefox. If Mozilla Firefox displays a Your connection is not secure

•

message, click the ADVANCED button. Then, click the Add Exception button. In the pop-up window that opens, click the Confirm Security Exception button.

Microsoft Internet Explore. If Microsoft Internet Explorer displays a There is a

•

problem with this website’s security certificate message, click the Continue to this website (not recommended) link.

Microsoft Edge. If Microsoft Edge displays a There is a problem with this website’s

•

security certificate message or a similar warning, select Details > Go on to the webpage.

6. Select the Standalone Mode radio button.

Note: After you save the basic settings that are shown on the page, the Day Zero

Easy Setup page no longer displays when you log in. Instead, a login window opens. After you log in, the Dashboard page displays.

User Manual29Access the AirBridge and Use

the Easy Setup Method

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Enter the settings that are described in the following table.

DescriptionSetting

Country/Region

Time Zone

DHCP Client

AP Name

From the menu, select the country and region in which the AirBridge is operating.

Note: Make sure that the country is set to the location where the device is operating. You

are responsible for complying with the local, regional, and national regulations that are

set for channels, power levels, and frequency ranges.

Note: It might not be legal to operate the AirBridge in a region other than the regions

listed in the menu. If your country or region is not listed, check with your local government

agency.

From the menu, select the time zone for the country and region in which the AirBridge is

operating.

By default, the DHCP client of the AirBridge allows the AirBridge to receive an IP address

from a DHCP server (or router that functions as a DHCP server) in your network.

To set up the AirBridge with a static (fixed) IP address, do the following:

a. Select the Disable radio button.

Additional fields display.

b. Specify the IP address, IP subnet mask, IP address of the default gateway, and IP address

of the DNS server.

As an option, enter a new device name for the AirBridge. The name must contain

alphanumeric characters, cannot be longer than 15 characters, and cannot contains spaces.

The name can contain hyphens, but cannot start or end with a hyphen.

By default, the device name is WBC502, which is the AirBridge’s model number.

AP Login New

Password

the Easy Setup Method

Enter a new local device password. This is the password that you must use to log in to the

AirBridge’s local browser UI. (It is not the password that you use for WiFi access.)

The password must be 8 to 32 characters in length and must contain at least one uppercase

letter, one lowercase letter, and one number. The following special characters are allowed:

! @ # $ % ^ & * ( )

Write down and save the password for future use.

Enter exactly the same password that you entered in the AP Login New Password field.Confirm New

User Manual30Access the AirBridge and Use

(Continued)

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Operation Mode

SSID

From the menu, select the operation mode that the AirBridge must function in:

AirBridge Master

•

AirBridge Satellite

•

Access Point

•

Client Bridge

•

For information about the operation modes, see Operation mode: AirBridge Master,

AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge on page 10 and Operation mode and

default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration on page 33.

Enter a name for the 5 GHz SSID. You can use a maximum of 32 characters with a

combination of alphanumeric and special characters, except for quotation marks (") and

a backslash (\).

The function of the 5 GHz SSID depends on the operation mode:

AirBridge master and satellite. The 5 GHz SSID is the backhaul WiFi connection

• between the master and the satellite.

Access point. The 5 GHz SSID is the WiFi network that the access point broadcasts.

•

Client bridge. The 5 GHz SSID is the WiFi extension between the client bridge and the

• base station.

Authentication

Passphrase

the Easy Setup Method

From the menu, select one of the following authentication types for the 5 GHz SSID:

Open. Authentication is not required and data encryption is not supported. This setting

• does not provide any security and is not appropriate for most situations.

WPA2-AES. This option allows the 5 GHz SSID to be secured with a WPA2 passphrase.

• This option uses AES encryption. All devices that use the 5 GHz SSID must be capable

of supporting WPA2-AES.

After you complete the setup process, you can set up WPA2 Enterprise security with

RADIUS servers. For more information, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master

or access point on page 81 or Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client

bridge on page 84.

Unless you selected Open from the Authentication Type menu, enter a new passphrase

(network key or WiFi password) for the 5 GHz SSID.

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

User Manual31Access the AirBridge and Use

(Continued)

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

DescriptionSetting

Management

SSID

Management

WPA2

Passphrase

The management SSID lets you connect from your WiFi-enabled computer or mobile

device to the AirBridge to configure and manage the it. This management SSID is not

used for backhaul or regular WiFi client connections.

For more information, see Manage the settings for the 2.4 GHz management SSID on

page 86.

Enter a new passphrase (network key or WiFi password) for the management SSID. This

passphrase replaces the default passphrase (sharedsecret).

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

8. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved.

After about one minute the AirBridge is back online.

The login page displays.

If the login page does not open automatically, enter 192.168.0.100 in the address bar of your browser.

If you changed the IP address (that is, you specified a static IP address), enter the new IP address.

10.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see the information in Step 5.

11. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you just defined

on the Day Zero Easy Setup page. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

12. In the TERMS OF USE section, click the NETGEAR’s Terms and Conditions link, and read the terms of use.

13.

If you agree, select the check box to acknowledge that you read and agree with the terms of use.

You need to select this check box only once. Subsequent times that you log in, the check box is preselected.

14. Click the Login button. The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

You can now customize the AirBridge settings for your network environment.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual32Access the AirBridge and Use

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

15.

After you complete the setup process, or both the setup process and your configurations, you can change the computer back to its original IP address settings.

Operation mode and default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration

After you complete the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration and specify the AirBridge to function in one of four operation modes, the default settings are as stated in the following table.

Note: In some countries and regions, the default settings might differ from the settings that are stated in the following table.

Table 3. Operation mode default settings after the Day Zero Easy Setup configuration

Client BridgeAccess PointAirBridge SatelliteAirBridge MasterDefault Setting

N/AN/AEnabledEnabledAirBridge mode

EnabledEnabledEnabledEnabledAuto RF

N/A40 MHzN/A40 MHzChannel HT mode

N/A32N/AN/AClient Limit

1 km (0.6 miles)1 km (0.6 miles)1 km (0.6 miles)1 km (0.6 miles)Distance

N/AN/AN/AAutoMaster Time Slot

N/AN/AHighN/ASatellite Priority

Note: For information about manually configuring the operation mode, see Manually Configure or Change the Operation Mode on page 37.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual33Access the AirBridge and Use

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup

After initial setup, the AirBridge is ready for use and you can change the settings and monitor traffic.

When you access the local browser UI of the AirBridge, your browser might display a security message. You can either ignore this message or install the AirBridge’s security certificate. Consider the following examples:

Google Chrome. If Google Chrome displays a Your connection is not private

• message, click the ADVANCED link. Then, click the Proceed to x.x.x.x (unsafe) link, in which x.x.x.x represents the IP address of the AirBridge.

Apple Safari. If Apple Safari displays a This connection is not private message, click

• the Show Details button. Then, click the visit this website link. If a warning pop-up window opens, click the Visit Website button. If another pop-up window opens to let you confirm changes to your certificate trust settings, enter your Mac user name and password and click the Update Setting button.

Mozilla Firefox. If Mozilla Firefox displays a Your connection is not secure message,

• click the ADVANCED button. Then, click the Add Exception button. In the pop-up

window that opens, click the Confirm Security Exception button.

Microsoft Internet Explore. If Microsoft Internet Explorer displays a There is a

•

problem with this website’s security certificate message, click the Continue to this website (not recommended) link.

Microsoft Edge. If Microsoft Edge displays a There is a problem with this website’s

•

security certificate message or a similar warning, select Details > Go on to the webpage.

To log in to the AirBridge’s local browser UI:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see the information in the introduction of this task.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

If you previously managed the AirBridge through the NETGEAR Insight app or Insight Cloud portal, enter the Insight network password for that location (see Connect over

User Manual34Access the AirBridge and Use

the Easy Setup Method

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

WiFi using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device on page

15).

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

The following figure shows the Device Status page and the Device Information section.

For more information about the sections on the Device Status page, see View the device status and other information on page 133.

Change the language of the local browser UI

You can change the language of the local browser UI.

To change the language of the local browser UI:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual35Access the AirBridge and Use

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

If you previously managed the AirBridge through the NETGEAR Insight app or Insight Cloud portal, enter the Insight network password for the Insight network location to which the AirBridge was assigned (see Connect over WiFi using the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device on page 15).

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

From the menu at the top right of the page, select another language. After a few seconds, the language changes.

the Easy Setup Method

User Manual36Access the AirBridge and Use

Manually Configure or Change the Operation Mode

When you access the AirBridge for the first time, you must select an operation mode on the Day Zero Easy Setup page. After you do so, you can also manually change the operation mode and settings.

This chapter describes how you can manually configure the operation mode of the AirBridge and the settings that are associated with the selected operation mode. For an overview of the operation modes, see Operation mode: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access Point, or Client Bridge on page 10.

The chapter includes the following sections:

• Recommendations for configuration

• Configure the AirBridge as a master in a point-to-point or point-to-multipoint setup

• Configure the AirBridge as a satellite in a point-to-point setup

• Configure the AirBridge as an access point

• Configure the AirBridge as a client bridge

CAUTION: This device must be professionally installed. It is the installer’s responsibility

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Recommendations for configuration

For a master-to-satellite, site-to-site setup, we recommend that you complete the initial pairing of the AirBridges at a staging area with easy access to the network that is to supply connectivity to the master and access point. For information about the hardware setup, see the hardware installation manual, which you can download by visiting netgear.com/support/download/.

We recommend the following configuration order:

If you manually configure AirBridges in a master-to-satellite setup (or change such

• an existing configuration), we recommend that you first configure the satellite and then configure the master. After you complete the configurations, the WiFi backhaul connection between the master and satellite is automatically established.

Note: If you first configure the master and then configure the satellite, the WiFi backhaul connection between the master and satellite is not (or no longer) operational, and you might not be able to access the satellite.

Similarly, if you manually configure an AirBridge as a client bridge in an access

• point-to-client bridge setup (or change such an existing configuration), we recommend that you first configure the client bridge and then configure the access point. (The access point can be an AirBridge or another type of access point.) After you complete the configurations, the WiFi backhaul connection between the access point and client bridge is automatically established.

Note: If you first configure the access point and then configure the client bridge, the WiFi backhaul connection between the access point and client bridge is not (or no longer) operational, and you might not be able to access the client bridge.

Configure the AirBridge as a master in a point-to-point or point-to-multipoint setup

You can configure the AirBridge as a master in a point-to-point or point to-multipoint setup. You install the master at a main site to provide network and Internet connectivity to one or more satellites at detached sites where no wired infrastructure is available. This setup requires a line of sight between the main site and each detached site.

Note: We do not recommend that you use a master and several satellites to create a multi-building campus network backbone.

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

To configure the AirBridge as a master in a point-to-point or point-to-multipoint setup:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. From the Operation Mode menu, select AirBridge Master.

6. Select the AirBridge Enable radio button. By default, the AirBridge mode is enabled, which is the setting that we recommend

for a master-to-satellite setup. Depending on your network situation, your WiFi requirements, and your understanding of the consequences, you can disable the AirBridge mode.

Note: For information about optional advanced settings that display on the page, such as changing the Auto RF mode (so that you can set a specific transmission power), channel HT mode, channel, bit rate, and master time slot, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90. We recommend that you do not change these advanced settings while you perform the current task.

In the Distance field, enter the approximate distance at which the satellite or satellites are located.

Enter the distance in km. (1 km is 0.6 miles.) For example, if the distance is 2 km (1.2 miles), enter 2.

the Operation Mode

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Note: For information about changing the name or security settings of the

5 GHz backhaul SSID to which the satellite or satellites must connect, see Manage the 5 GHz SSIDs and WiFi security on page 65.

8. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

9. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Configure the AirBridge as a satellite in a point-to-point setup

You can configure the AirBridge as a satellite in a point-to-point setup with an AirBridge master that is located at a main site. You install the satellite at a detached site, where no wired infrastructure is available. This setup requires a line of sight between the detached site and the main site.

To configure the AirBridge as a satellite:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

5. From the Operation Mode menu, select AirBridge Satellite.

6. Select the AirBridge Enable radio button. By default, the AirBridge mode is enabled, which is the setting that we recommend

for a master-to-satellite setup. Depending on your network situation, your WiFi requirements, and your understanding of the consequences, you can disable the AirBridge mode.

Note: For information about optional advanced settings that display on the page, such as changing the Auto RF mode (so that you can set a specific transmission power), bit rate, and satellite priority, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90. We recommend that you do not change these advanced settings while you perform the current task.

In the Distance field, enter the approximate distance at which the master is located. Enter the distance in km. (1 km is 0.6 miles.) For example, if the distance is 2 km

(1.2 miles), enter 2.

8. In the Wireless Settings - 5GHZ section, click the Edit button. A new page opens.

IMPORTANT: The first time that you set up a satellite to connect to a master, the master must be offline to prevent a network loop. Therefore, you must enter the 5 GHZ SSID backhaul settings manually (see the next step). For more information about the master-to-satellite hardware setup that we recommend, see the hardware installation guide.

Tip: If you are changing an existing 5 GHZ SSID backhaul setting for a satellite, the master might already be online, allowing you to use the AP detection scanning function to scan for a master (see Scan for neighboring access points on page 62).

To manually configure the 5 GHZ SSID backhaul settings, specify the following settings:

To enter the basic service set ID (BSSID) of one particular master, select the Preferred SSID check box, and enter the MAC addresses of the 5 GHZ radio of the AirBridge master. This option is useful if your network includes more than one master. If your network includes a single master, you can skip this option.

In the SSID field, enter the name of the 5 GHZ SSID of the master with which you want the satellite to connect.

From the Security Mode menu, select the type of security, if any, for the connection to the selected SSID.

the Operation Mode

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

If the type of security is WPA2-PSK, in the Passphrase field, enter the WiFi passphrase (also referred to as WiFi password or network key). If the type of security is WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client bridge on page 84.

e. Click the Save button.

Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

10. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved and applied. The WiFi connection is reestablished. The page

displays the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Configure the AirBridge as an access point

You can configure the AirBridge as an access point that can support multiple 5 GHZ SSIDs. You install the access point at a main site to provide network and Internet connectivity to individual WiFi clients, client bridges, other access point that extend the WiFi network, or a combination of these. This setup does not require a line of sight between the access point and the WiFi clients, client bridge, or other access point. The powerful antenna of the AirBridge allows for an extended WiFi range.

To configure the AirBridge as an access point:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless.

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The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. From the Operation Mode menu, select Access Point.

Note: For information about optional advanced settings that display on the page, such as changing the Auto RF mode (so that you can set a specific transmission power), channel HT mode, channel, and bit rate, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90. We recommend that you do not change these advanced settings while you perform the current task.

To limit the number of clients that can connect to the AirBridge, keep the Clients Limits Enable radio button selected and enter a number in the Client Limits field.

By default, the limit is 32 clients. You can specify a lower or higher number of maximum WiFi clients. The range is from 1 to 32. The maximum number applies to all clients connected to all 5 GHZ SSIDs on the AirBridge. You can disable client limits entirely by selecting the Clients Limits Disable check box.

To scan for neighboring access points, click the AP Detection Scan button. A new page opens. For more information, see Scan for neighboring access points

on page 62.

In the Distance field, enter the approximate distance at which most WiFi devices or client bridges are located.

Enter the distance in km. (1 km is 0.6 miles.) For example, if the distance is 2 km (1.2 miles), enter 2.

In the Wireless Settings - Access Point section, do one of the following:

To change the default 5 GHZ SSID or another previously enabled 5 GHZ SSID,

•

click the Edit button for the 5 GHZ SSID.

To enable and configure a new 5 GHZ SSID, select the Enabled check box for a

•

disabled 5 GHZ SSID, and then click the Edit button for the 5 GHZ SSID.

A new page opens.

10.

To configure the 5 GHZ SSID settings, specify the settings that are described in the following table:

DescriptionSetting

Wireless Setting - Access Point 5GHz

This check box is selected, otherwise you cannot configure the SSID settings.Enable

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DescriptionSetting

SSID

Hidden SSID

Client Isolation

VLAN Isolation

L2 Isolation

The service set ID (SSID), which is the name for the WiFi network with which WiFi clients

can connect.

To hide the WiFi network name and prevent it from displaying in the scanning list of a WiFi

client, select the Enable radio button. To connect to the WiFi network, a user must know

the WiFi network name.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent WiFi clients that are associated with the same or different WiFi networks on the

access point from communicating with each other, select the Enable radio button. If you

enable client isolation, WiFi clients can still communicate with each other over the Internet.

When the AirBridge mode is disabled, by default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent clients on different VLANs from communicating with each other, select the

Enable radio button, and enter the VLAN ID in the ID field. This VLAN ID must already be

defined in your network. The default VLAN ID is 1. The range is from 1 to 4094.

If you enable VLAN isolation, clients can still communicate with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent WiFi and LAN clients on the same access point from communicating with each

other, select the Enable radio button. If you enable L2 isolation, clients can still communicate

with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

Wireless Security

Security Mode

Passphrase

the Operation Mode

From the Security Mode menu, select WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Enterprise for the connection

to the selected SSID.

For information about WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master

or access point on page 81.

Note: We recommend that you set up security, although in certain situations, and if you

are aware of the risks, you can select None.

This field is fixed at AES. You cannot select another option.Encryption

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, enter a passphrase (network key

or WiFi password) that WiFi clients must enter to connect to the SSID.

The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

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DescriptionSetting

Group Key

Update Interval

Fast Roaming

Status

The period in seconds that the group key changes. The period can be from 30 to 3600

seconds. The default period is 3600 seconds (1 hour).

If you enter 0, the update interval is disabled and the group key is not changed. For greater

security, we recommend that you do not disable the update interval so that the group key

can be changed automatically.

To enable fast roaming, select the Enable radio button. By default, the Disable radio button

is selected.

If your network includes WiFi clients that must be able to roam from one access point to

another, enable fast roaming so that certain client applications can quickly reassociate with

a new access point.

Fast roaming is not available if you select None from the Security Mode menu.

For information about other WiFi features such as setting up a MAC filter and traffic shaping, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90.

11. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but no yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings

page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

12. To enable the guest network on an SSID, in the Wireless Settings - Access Point section, select the Guest Network check box for the SSID.

13. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

14. Click the Apply button. Your settings are saved and applied. The WiFi connection is reestablished. The page

displays the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Configure the AirBridge as a client bridge

You can configure the AirBridge as a client bridge. You install the client bridge at a detached site to provide network and Internet connectivity to a single wired device that is not WiFi-capable on its own. For example, you could connect a pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera to a client bridge.

the Operation Mode

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Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

This setup does not require a line of sight between the access point at the main site and the client bridge. The access point with which the client bridge associates can be either another AirBridge or a different model access point.

To configure the AirBridge as a client bridge:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. From the Operation Mode menu, select Client Bridge.

Note: For information about optional advanced settings that display on the page, such as changing the Auto RF mode (so that you can set a specific transmission power) and bit rate, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90. We recommend that you do not change these advanced settings while you perform the current task.

6. Click the AP Detection Scan button. A new page opens. After the AirBridge completes its scan for neighboring access

points, the page displays (for each detected access point) the information that is described in the following table.

the Operation Mode

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DescriptionSetting

BSSID

SSID

Signal Level

The basic service set ID (BSSID) in the format of a MAC address.

This is usually the MAC address of the radio on the AirBridge master or access point that

broadcasts the SSID.

The service set ID (SSID), which is the name for the WiFi network with which the AirBridge

satellite, client bridge, or access point can connect.

The radio channel on which the SSID is being broadcast.Channel

The strength of the WiFi signal that is being broadcast, expressed in –dBm.

A lower value means a stronger signal. For example, –40 dBm indicates a stronger signal

than –60 dBm.

The type of security that is configured for the SSID.Security

The operation mode of the detected access point.Mode

7. Select the access point with which you want the client bridge to associate by clicking the row for the access point.

The page changes.

To select the BSSID of the selected access point as the preferred BSSID, select the check box.

After you select the BSSID, in most situations, you do not need to change the detected SSID, security mode, and encryption.

If the security mode is WPA2-PSK, in the Passphrase field, enter the passphrase that is required to connect to the SSID.

If the type of security is WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client bridge on page 84.

10. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings

page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

11.

In the Distance field, enter the approximate distance at which the access point is located.

Enter the distance in km. (1 km is 0.6 miles.) For example, if the distance is 2 km (1.2 miles), enter 2.

12. Click the Save button.

the Operation Mode

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Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The pop-up window shows the number of changes to be applied.

13. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

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User Manual48Manually Configure or Change

Manage the Wired Network Settings

This chapter describes how you can manage the wired network settings of the AirBridge.

The chapter includes the following sections:

• Specify a static IPv4 address for the AirBridge

• Specify a link-local IPv6 address for the AirBridge

• Reenable the DHCP client of the AirBridge

• Manage the STP settings

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Specify a static IPv4 address for the AirBridge

By default, the DHCP client of the AirBridge is enabled, allowing a DHCP server (usually, a router) in your network to assign an IPv4 address to the AirBridge. You can disable the DHCP client and specify static (fixed) IP address settings for the AirBridge.

To specify static IPv4 address settings for the AirBridge:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Basic. The page that displays shows the IPv4 Settings, IPv6 Settings, and Spanning Tree

Protocol (STP) Settings sections.

5. In the IPv4 Settings section, select the Static IP radio button. The IPv4 address fields display.

Specify the static IPv4 address, subnet mask, gateway IPv4 address, and primary and secondary DNS addresses.

7. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

8. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

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Settings

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Note: To log back in to the AirBridge, you now must use the static IP address that you

assigned.

Specify a link-local IPv6 address for the AirBridge

By default, the DHCP client of the AirBridge is enabled, allowing a DHCPv6 server (usually, a router) in your network to assign an IPv6 address to the AirBridge. You can disable the DHCP client and specify link-local IPv6 address settings for the AirBridge.

To specify link-local IPv6 address settings for the AirBridge:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Basic. The page that displays shows the IPv4 Settings, IPv6 Settings, and Spanning Tree

Protocol (STP) Settings sections.

5. In the IPv4 Settings section, select the Static IP radio button. The IPv4 address fields display.

6. In the IPv6 Settings section, clear the Link-local Address check box. The IPv6 address fields display.

Specify the static IPv6 address, subnet prefix length, IPv6 gateway address, and primary and secondary DNS addresses.

8. Click the Save button.

Settings

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Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

9. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Note: To log back in to the AirBridge, you now must use the IPv6 address that you assigned.

Reenable the DHCP client of the AirBridge

If you disabled the DHCP client of the AirBridge, you can reenable it.

To reenable the DHCP client of the AirBridge:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Basic. The page that displays shows the IPv4 Settings, IPv6 Settings, and Spanning Tree

Protocol (STP) Settings sections.

5. In the IPv4 Settings section, select the DHCP radio button. The IPv4 address fields no longer display.

6. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

Settings

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A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

7. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Note: To log back in to the AirBridge, you now must use the IP address that is assigned by the DHCP (or DHCPv6) server in your network. To determine the IP address that the DHCP server assigned to the AirBridge, use one of the following methods:

Windows-based computer. If you use a Windows-based computer, open Windows

• Explorer, and click the Network link. If prompted, enable the Network Discovery feature. Under Network Infrastructure, locate the WBC502 (assuming that you did not change the device name), and double-click WBC502.

DHCP server. Access the DHCP server in your network and open the page the shows

• the network connections.

IP network scanner. Use an IP network scanner to scan for the IP address that is

• assigned to the AirBridge.

NETGEAR Insight app. Use the NETGEAR Insight app to discover the IP address

• that is assigned to the AirBridge. For more information, see Connect over WiFi using

the NETGEAR Insight app on an iOS or Android mobile device on page 15.

Manage the STP settings

By default, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is enabled on the AirBridge.

You can change the settings for STP, or disabled it entirely. However, we recommend that you keep STP enabled because it helps to prevent network loops.

To manage the STP settings:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

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Settings

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Basic. The page that displays shows the IPv4 Settings, IPv6 Settings, and Spanning Tree

Protocol (STP) Settings sections.

In the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) Settings section, specify the settings that are described in the following table:

DescriptionSetting

Status

Hello Time

Max Age

Forward Delay

Priority

Select one of the following radio buttons:

Enable. STP is enabled. This is the default setting.

•

Disable. STP is disabled.

•

The interval in seconds between handshake packets the AirBridge sends to

communicate information about the topology throughout the entire bridged LAN.

The range is 1–10 seconds. The default is 2 seconds.

The period in seconds within which the AirBridge must receive a hello packet from

another device in the spanning tree before the AirBridge assumes that the device is

inactive.

The range is 6–40 seconds. The default is 20 seconds.

The period in seconds that a device spends in each of the listening and learning

states before entering the forwarding state. This delay is provided so that when a

new device enters a busy network, the device analyzes data traffic before participating

in the network.

The range is 4–30 seconds. The default is 15 seconds.

The priority of the AirBridge in the spanning tree. A smaller number means a higher

priority.

The range is 0–65535. The default is 32768.

6. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

7. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button.

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Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Settings

User Manual55Manage the Wired Network

Manage the WiFi and Radio Features

This chapter describes how you can manage the WiFi and radio settings of the AirBridge. For information about advanced WiFi and radio settings, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90.

The chapter includes the following sections:

• Recommended configuration order

• Change the device name of the AirBridge

• Change the country and region of operation

• Change the AirBridge mode

• Scan for neighboring access points

• Specify the approximate distance for the WiFi connection

• Manage the 5 GHz SSIDs and WiFi security

• Manage the settings for the 2.4 GHz management SSID

CAUTION: This device must be professionally installed. It is the installer’s responsibility

Insight Instant AirBridge WBC502 User Manual

Recommended configuration order

We recommend the following configuration order:

If you change an existing configuration for AirBridges in a master-to-satellite setup,

• we recommend that you first change the satellite and then change the master. After you complete the configurations, the WiFi backhaul connection between the master and satellite is automatically reestablished.

Note: If you first change the master and then change the satellite, the WiFi backhaul connection between the master and satellite is no longer operational, and you might not be able to access the satellite.

Similarly, if you change an existing configuration for an AirBridge that functions as

• a client bridge in an access point-to-client bridge setup, we recommend that you

first change the client bridge and then change the access point. (The access point can be an AirBridge or another type of access point.) After you complete the configurations, the WiFi backhaul connection between the access point and client bridge is automatically reestablished.

Note: If you first change the access point and then change the client bridge, the WiFi backhaul connection between the access point and client bridge is no longer operational, and you might not be able to access the client bridge.

Change the device name of the AirBridge

The device name is also referred to as the AP name or system name. It is the AirBridge name that displays in the network. By default, the device name is WBC502, which is the AirBridge’s model number. You can change this name.

To change the name of the AirBridge:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password.

Features

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The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

In the AP Name field, enter a new name. The name must contain alphanumeric characters, cannot be longer than 15 characters,

and cannot contains spaces. The name can contain hyphens, but cannot start or end with a hyphen.

6. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

7. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Change the country and region of operation

After initial configuration, you can change the country and region of operation of the AirBridge.

WARNING: Make sure that the country is set to the location where the device is

operating. You are responsible for complying with the local, regional, and national regulations that are set for channels, power levels, and frequency ranges.

WARNING: It might not be legal to operate the AirBridge in a region other than the

regions listed in the menu. If your country or region is not listed, check with your local government agency.

Features

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To change the country and region of operation of the AirBridge:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

From the Country / Region menu, select the country and region in which the AirBridge is operating.

6. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

7. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Change the AirBridge mode

You can select the AirBridge mode only if the operation mode of the AirBridge is AirBridge Master or AirBridge Satellite. In a master-to-satellite setup, you must either enable the AirBridge mode on both the master and the satellite or disable it on both the master and the satellite. That is, do not enable it on the master and disable it on the satellite, or the other way around.

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The AirBridge mode specifies the type of multiple access method that the AirBridge uses.

AirBridge mode enabled. The characteristics of the AirBridge are as follows:

•

Highly reliable connections for a limited number of WiFi devices. Provides reliable point-to-point connections between a master and a satellite and point-to-multipoint connections between a master and a limited number of satellites.

Best suited for long distance for a limited number of WiFi devices. A master can connect over a long distance of 1.8 miles (3 km) or more to a satellite at a detached site.

- Single 5 GHz SSID. A single 5 GHz SSID provides the backhaul WiFi connection

between the master and the satellites.

- No individual WiFi clients supported. Other than the satellites, individual WiFi

clients cannot connect to the 5 GHz SSID. However, by connecting a switch and a WiFi access point to the satellite, you can support multiple WiFi clients at the detached site.

- Another AirBridge as a link partner only. An AirBridge and one or more other

AirBridges can establish WiFi connections. You cannot use any other types of access points as link partners.

AirBridge mode disabled. The characteristics of the AirBridge are as follows:

•

Reliable connections for multiple WiFi devices. Provides reliable point-to-multipoint connections between an access point and multiple individual WiFi clients.

Best suited for extended range for multiple WiFi devices. The powerful antenna of the AirBridge supports a WiFi range that extends beyond the range of most access points.

- Multiple 5 GHz SSIDs. Multiple 5 GHz SSIDs can support satellites, client bridges,

and individual WiFi clients.

- Individual WiFi clients supported. Individual WiFi clients can connect to the

AirBridge.

- Any access point as a link partner. Any access point, including third-party access

points, can establish a WiFi connection with an AirBridge.

By default, the AirBridge mode is enabled, which is the setting that we recommend for a master-to-satellite setup. Depending on your network situation, your WiFi requirements, and your understanding of the consequences, you can disable the AirBridge mode.

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CAUTION: The behavior of the AirBridge changes when you disable the AirBridge

mode. Change the AirBridge mode only if you understand the consequences.

To change the AirBridge mode:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

Select one of the following AirBridge radio buttons:

Enable. The AirBridge is enabled.

•

This is the default setting.

Disable. The AirBridge mode is disabled.

•

6. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

7. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

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Scan for neighboring access points

Scanning for neighboring access points is useful if you want to connect to another device. Scan if you want to connect a satellite to a master or a client bridge to an access point.

Note: In this task, a neighboring access point can function either as a master or as an access point.

To scan for neighboring access points:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. Click the AP Detection Scan button. A new page opens. After the AirBridge completes its scan for neighboring access

points, the page displays (for each detected access point) the information that is described in the following table.

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DescriptionSetting

BSSID

SSID

Signal Level

The basic service set ID (BSSID) in the format of a MAC address.

This is usually the MAC address of the radio on the AirBridge master or access point

that broadcasts the SSID.

The service set ID (SSID), which is the name for the WiFi network with which the

AirBridge satellite, client bridge, or access point can connect.

The radio channel on which the SSID is being broadcast.Channel

The strength of the WiFi signal that is being broadcast, expressed in –dBm.

A lower value means a stronger signal. For example, –40 dBm indicates a stronger

signal than –60 dBm.

The type of security that is configured for the SSID.Security

The operation mode of the detected access point.Mode

6. Either select the master with which you want the satellite to associate or the access point with which you want the client bridge to associate by clicking the row for the master or access point.

The page changes.

To select the BSSID of the selected master or access point as the preferred BSSID, select the check box.

After you select the BSSID, in most situations, you do not need to change the detected SSID, security mode, and encryption.

If the security mode is WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK, in the Passphrase field, enter the passphrase that is required to connect to the SSID.

If the type of security is WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client bridge on page 84.

9. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings

page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

10. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

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Specify the approximate distance for the WiFi connection

You can specify the approximate distance at which a master, satellite, client bridge, or access point is located. Depending on your site, network setup, and network configuration, an AirBridge can support a long distance WiFi connection of 3 km (1.8 miles) or more to another AirBridge. The powerful antenna of the AirBridge also supports WiFi connections over an extended (longer) range than most access points.

Setting the approximate distance configures the signal sensitivity of the AirBridge, specifically the Layer 2 acknowledgement time-out period.

Round to the nearest km. For example, if the distance between a master and a satellite is 600 meters (1,968 ft), round to 1 km (0.6 mile). However, if the distance is less than 500 meters (1,640 ft), enter 0.

In a point-to-multipoint setup with one master and multiple satellite, enter the distance between the master and the satellite that is located the furthest away.

To specify the approximate distance for the WiFi connection between two AirBridges:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

In the Distance field, enter the approximate distance which a master, satellite, client bridge, or access point is located or at which most WiFi clients are located

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Enter the distance in km. (1 km is 0.6 miles.) For example, if the distance is 2 km (1.2 miles), enter 2.

6. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

7. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Manage the 5 GHz SSIDs and WiFi security

The following table lists the number of 5 GHz SSIDs that the AirBridge can support, depending on the operation mode and the AirBridge mode. In addition, the table lists the possible link partners with which you can establish a WiFi connection on the SSIDs.

Table 4. 5 GHz SSIDs on the AirBridge

WiFi Link PartnersNumber of

AirBridge only1EnabledMaster

AirBridge, any WiFi AP, and WiFi clients4Disabled

AirBridge master only1Enabled or disabled (must

WiFi clients, AirBridge, and any WiFi AP8N/AAccess Point

AirBridge or any WiFi AP1N/AClient Bridge

Mode

Satellite

AirBridge ModeOperation

5 GHz SSIDs

follow the mode on the master)

The number of 5 GHz SSIDs that you can configure depends on the following settings:

Operation mode (see Operation mode: AirBridge Master, AirBridge Satellite, Access

• Point, or Client Bridge on page 10)

AirBridge mode (see Change the AirBridge mode on page 59)

•

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The AirBridge supports the following WiFi security:

For an individual 5 GHz SSID, you can configure WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Enterprise

• security. For more information on configuring WPA2-PSK security, see one of the following sections:

Change the 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a satellite on page 67

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode enabled on page 68

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode disabled on page 71

Change the 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a client bridge on page 75

Change or configure a 5 GHz SSID for an access point on page 76

For more information on configuring WPA2-Enterprise security with a RADIUS authentication server, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite or client bridge on page 84 or Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master or access point on page 81.

Note: In addition to WPA2-Enterprise security with a RADIUS authentication server, you can set up a RADIUS accounting server, which you also can use with WPA2-PSK. That is, the WiFi security can be WPA-PSK and you can use a RADIUS accounting server.

Depending on the operation mode and AirBridge mode, you can configure security

• settings such as a hidden SSID, client isolation, VLAN isolation, an L2 isolation, and

you can entirely disable a 5 GHz SSID that is not the default 5 GHz SSID. For more information, see on of the following sections:

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode enabled on page 68

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode disabled on page 71

Change or configure a 5 GHz SSID for an access point on page 76

Depending on the operation mode, you can enable and configure a guest network.

• For more information, see Configure a guest network on an access point on page

80.

Depending on the operation mode and AirBridge mode, you can set up a WiFi MAC

• filter.

For more information, see Set up a MAC filter for a 5 GHz SSID on page 102.

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Change the 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a satellite

Use this task if the operation mode of the AirBridge is AirBridge Satellite.

When you performed the initial configuration on the Day Zero Easy Setup page, you were required to change the name of the default 5 GHz SSID. If you kept WPA2-PSK as the WiFi security mode, you were also required to change the passphrase.

You can manually change the default 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode again.

Note: For information about scanning for neighboring access points and selecting a preferred BSSID and SSID, which is a method to automatically change the SSID, see Scan for neighboring access points on page 62.

To manually change the default 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a satellite:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

In the Wireless Settings - 5GHz section, click the Edit button for the 5 GHz SSID. A new page opens.

To configure the 5 GHz SSID settings, specify the settings that are described in the following table:

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DescriptionSetting

BSSID

SSID

Security Mode

Encryption

Passphrase

If you want the satellite to connect to a particular master, select the Preferred BSSID check

box and enter the basic service set ID (BSSID) of the master in the format of a MAC address.

The BSSID is usually the MAC address of the radio on the AirBridge master that broadcasts

the SSID.

In the SSID field, enter the service set ID (SSID), that is, the name of the WiFi network on

the AirBridge master with which the satellite must connect.

From the Security Mode menu, select the same security mode that is defined on the

AirBridge master. You can select WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Enterprise for the connection to

the selected SSID.

For information about WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a satellite

or client bridge on page 84.

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, this field is fixed at AES. You cannot

select another option.

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, enter the passphrase (network

key or WiFi password). The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

You must enter the same passphrase that is defined on the AirBridge master so that the

satellite can connect to the master.

7. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings

page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

8. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode enabled

Use this task if the operation mode of the AirBridge is AirBridge Master and the AirBridge mode is enabled.

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If the AirBridge mode is enabled, the master supports a single 5 GHz SSID. You can change this default 5 GHz SSID again.

CAUTION: If you change the 5 GHz SSID to which satellite connects, we recommend

that you first change the satellite and then change the master so that the WiFi backhaul connection between the master and satellite can be automatically reestablished. If you first change the master and then change the satellite, the WiFi backhaul connection between the master and satellite is no longer operational, and you might not be able to access the satellite.

To change a 5 GHz SSID or enable and configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode enabled:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. Go to the Wireless Settings - Access Point section. The following information displays:

A single 5 GHz SSID only is supported.

•

The Enabled check box is selected. You cannot clear the check box, which means

•

that you cannot disable the SSID.

The SSID field shows the name for the WiFi network to which satellites can connect.

•

You can change the SSID name.

Click the Edit button for the default 5 GHz SSID.

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A new page opens.

To configure the 5 GHz SSID settings, specify the settings that are described in the following table:

DescriptionSetting

Wireless Setting - AirBridge Access Point 5GHz

Hidden SSID

Client Isolation

VLAN Isolation

L2 Isolation

To hide the WiFi network name and prevent it from displaying in the scanning list of a WiFi

client, select the Enable radio button. To connect to the WiFi network, a user must know

the WiFi network name.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent WiFi clients that are associated with the same or different WiFi networks on the

master from communicating with each other, select the Enable radio button. If you enable

client isolation, WiFi clients can still communicate with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

If L2 isolation is enabled, the Client Isolation radio buttons are disabled.

To prevent clients on different VLANs from communicating with each other, select the

Enable radio button, and enter the VLAN ID in the ID field. For the first 5 GHz SSID, the

default VLAN ID is 1, for the second 5 GHz SSID, the default VLAN ID 2, for the third

5 GHz SSID, the VLAN ID is 3, and so on. The range is from 1 to 4094.

If you enable VLAN isolation, clients can still communicate with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent WiFi and LAN clients on the same AirBridge from communicating with each

other, select the Enable radio button. If you enable L2 isolation, clients can still communicate

with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

Wireless Security

Security Mode

Encryption

Features

From the Security Mode menu, select WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Enterprise for the connection

to the selected SSID.

For information about WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master

or access point on page 81.

Note: We recommend that you set up security, although in certain situations, and if you

are aware of the risks, you can select None.

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, this field is fixed at AES. You cannot

select another option.

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DescriptionSetting

Passphrase

Group Key

Update Interval

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, enter a passphrase (network key

or WiFi password). The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

You must enter the same passphrase on a satellite that must connect to the master.

The period in seconds that the group key changes. The period can be from 30 to 3600

seconds. The default period is 3600 seconds (1 hour).

If you enter 0, the update interval is disabled and the group key is not changed. For greater

security, we recommend that you do not disable the update interval so that the group key

can be changed automatically.

For information about other WiFi features such as setting up a RADIUS accounting and a MAC filter, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90.

8. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings

page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

9. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

Change or configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode disabled

Use this task if the operation mode of the AirBridge is AirBridge Master and the AirBridge mode is disabled.

If the AirBridge mode is disabled, the master can support up to four 5 GHz SSIDs. In that situation, you can enable and configure a new 5 GHz SSID, or change such a 5 GHz SSID if you previously enabled it.

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CAUTION: If you change the 5 GHz SSID to which satellite connects, we recommend

To change a 5 GHz SSID or enable and configure a new 5 GHz SSID for a master with the AirBridge mode disabled:

Open a web browser from a computer that is connected to the same network as the AirBridge or directly to the AirBridge through an Ethernet cable or WiFi connection.

2. Enter the IP address that is assigned to the AirBridge. The login page displays.

If your browser does not display the login page but displays a security message and does not let you proceed, see Log in to the AirBridge after initial setup on page 34.

3. Enter the AirBridge user name and local device password. The user name is admin. The local device password is the one that you specified

the first time that you logged in. The user name and password are case-sensitive.

The Device Status page displays the Device Information section and other sections.

4. Under Network, select Wireless. The Wireless Settings page displays.

5. Go to the Wireless Settings - 5G section. The following information displays:

Up to four 5 GHz SSIDs are available.

•

The Enabled check box is selected for the enabled SSIDs and cleared for the

•

disabled SSIDs. You can either enable or disable SSIDs.

The SSID fields shows the names for the WiFi networks to which satellites and

•

WiFi clients can connect. You can change the SSID names.

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Do one of the following:

To change the default or another previously enabled 5 GHz SSID, click the Edit

•

button for the 5 GHz SSID.

To enable and configure a new 5 GHz SSID, select the Enabled check box for a

•

disabled 5 GHz SSID, and then click the Edit button for the 5 GHz SSID.

A new page opens.

To configure the 5 GHz SSID settings, specify the settings that are described in the following table:

DescriptionSetting

Wireless Setting - AirBridge Access Point 5GHz

Hidden SSID

Client Isolation

VLAN Isolation

L2 Isolation

To hide the WiFi network name and prevent it from displaying in the scanning list of a WiFi

client, select the Enable radio button. To connect to the WiFi network, a user must know

the WiFi network name.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent WiFi clients that are associated with the same or different WiFi networks on the

master from communicating with each other, select the Enable radio button. If you enable

client isolation, WiFi clients can still communicate with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

If L2 isolation is enabled, the Client Isolation radio buttons are disabled.

To prevent clients on different VLANs from communicating with each other, select the

Enable radio button, and enter the VLAN ID in the ID field. For the first 5 GHz SSID, the

default VLAN ID is 1, for the second 5 GHz SSID, the default VLAN ID 2, for the third

5 GHz SSID, the VLAN ID is 3, and so on. The range is from 1 to 4094.

If you enable VLAN isolation, clients can still communicate with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

To prevent WiFi and LAN clients on the same AirBridge from communicating with each

other, select the Enable radio button. If you enable L2 isolation, clients can still communicate

with each other over the Internet.

By default, the Disable radio button is selected.

Wireless Security

Security Mode

Features

From the Security Mode menu, select WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Enterprise for the connection

to the selected SSID.

For information about WPA2-Enterprise, see Set up WPA2-Enterprise security on a master

or access point on page 81.

Note: We recommend that you set up security, although in certain situations, and if you

are aware of the risks, you can select None.

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DescriptionSetting

Encryption

Passphrase

Group Key

Update Interval

Fast Roaming

Status

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, this field is fixed at AES. You cannot

select another option.

If you select WPA2-PSK from the Security Mode menu, enter a passphrase (network key

or WiFi password). The length of the passphrase must be from 8 to 63 characters.

You must enter the same passphrase on a satellite that must connect to the master.

The period in seconds that the group key changes. The period can be from 30 to 3600

seconds. The default period is 3600 seconds (1 hour).

If you enter 0, the update interval is disabled and the group key is not changed. For greater

security, we recommend that you do not disable the update interval so that the group key

can be changed automatically.

To enable fast roaming, select the Enable radio button. By default, the Disable radio button

is selected.

If your network includes WiFi clients that must be able to roam from one AirBridge to

another AirBridge or access point, enable fast roaming so that certain client applications

can quickly reassociate with a new AirBridge or access point.

Fast roaming is not available if you select None from the Security Mode menu.

For information about other WiFi features such as setting up a RADIUS accounting, a MAC filter, and traffic shaping, see Manage Advanced WiFi and Radio Features on page 90.

8. Click the Save button. Your settings are saved but not yet applied. The page closes. The Wireless Settings

page displays again.

A pop-up window opens. The window shows the number of changes to be applied.

9. In the pop-up window, click the Apply button. Your changes are applied. If the WiFi link must be reestablished, the page displays

the number of seconds before the AirBridge is back online.

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Change the 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a client bridge

Use this task if the operation mode of the AirBridge is Client Bridge.

You can manually change the default 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode again.

To manually change the default 5 GHz SSID or WiFi security mode for a client bridge: