Wireless Access Points for Business Premises

[AdrianH]

Hi

Currently we have 4 wireless routers connected (wired) to the company network to merely provide wireless internet access to internal staff and external guests.

But we are facing the following issues:
1) single password on AP so everybody internal and external get given same password to connect to wireless.
2) wireless range isn't very good.
3) no logging or auditing per device/user.

What we looking for is:
1) separate passwords for internal and external users. Password for each internal user/device would be better.
2) better wireless coverage
3) logging per user/device.

Can anybody point me in the correct direction. Either for hardware I should look at, or a company that can assist with setting up a proper company wireless solution.

PS: the WA's will connect to internal network and use the company's internet connection.

 

[irBosOtter]

Cheapest (and easiest implementation) would probably be ubiquiti devices.
Or else Ruckus controller with AP's or Cisco controller with AP's, but could get very expensive

 

[gfmalan]

+1 for Ubiquiti

 

[bdt]

Also consider Ruckus' less than OMGWTF expensive line Xclaim Wireless, as carried by Miro. From what I recall of the demo/'training' I think all three of your requirements get met with this kit. (and we would be glad to assist)

 

[MrDraytek]

Hi

What we looking for is:
1) separate passwords for internal and external users. Password for each internal user/device would be better.
2) better wireless coverage
3) logging per user/device.

Can anybody point me in the correct direction. Either for hardware I should look at, or a company that can assist with setting up a proper company wireless solution.

Hello Adrian

For requirement number 1, you'll need a device which supports multiple SSIDs.
ie. you'll essentially land up with what appears to be 2 or more separate WiFi networks for example "AdriansOffice" and "AdriansOfficeGuests", each with their own passwords and settings as per your requirements.

For number 2, you'll want to avoid entry-level APs and stick to the business-grade as you've probably now seen - there's a noticeable difference in the low and high-end AP signal ranges.

For number 3, I recommend a more comprehensive network logging platform than limiting this to your APs, though any more info on your logging requirement may help to shed light here.

I recommend the DrayTek Vigor AP900 for your installation due to its strong performance and rich feature set including concurrent dual-band WiFi, 4 SSIDs (per band), 5 gigabit LAN ports (1 for LAN B).

You'll find more info @ http://www.draytek.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=5285&Itemid=3811&lang=e

Give me a shout if I can offer any more assistance.
If you're looking for an installer/integrator, I can connect you with one of our local resellers.