Employment Security Department Point-to-Point Wireless Networking
Wirelesss Bridge design Connectivity for new building Strict timeline Expense Performance Reliability Lessons learned
Connectivity LAN access for new building 50 people plus printers Internet E-mail Mainframe File/print servers
Timeline Immediate need for connectivity (45-60 days) WAN connection might be done in time Lengthy permit process to run fiber-optic cable
Expense Limited budget Construction costs for fiber WAN circuits = perpetual cost Wireless = one-time initial outlay no perpetual expense
Performance T-1 = 1.544 Mbps Wireless = 11 Mbps (dual-circuits) No brainer
Reliability Maintained backup WAN for 6 months Zero downtime for approx. 18 months Slow response during construction Tree limbs = BAD! Creative logging
Lessons Learned Increase security WEP MAC filter No broadcast SSID Keep large distance from trees Etherchannel works WEP not secure