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How to properly set up wireless access point

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  • K
    KimWatson Banned
    last edited by stephenw10 Jan 12, 2020, 2:37 PM Jan 9, 2020, 7:24 AM

    Hello,

    I have barely any prior experience with pfSense or networking in general. Running pfSense 2.4.3.

    I've just installed and properly configured my pfSense router. The hardware I'm using has a WAN port, a LAN port, and two optional ports. I would like to use an Asus Nighthawk as a wireless access point. I'm assuming I can connect the LAN port on my pfSense router to a Ethernet switch, then from the switch to the Asus Nighthawk. From that point, considering the default OS is installed on the Nighthawk [SPAM REMOVED], I should be able to easily set it up as an access point without having to do anything else.

    I wanted to get some feedback from anyone who knows what they're doing, as I'm not sure if this is really a proper way to set up a wireless access point.

    Regards.

    G J 2 Replies Last reply Jan 9, 2020, 10:27 AM Reply Quote 0
    • G
      Gertjan @KimWatson
      last edited by Jan 9, 2020, 10:27 AM

      @KimWatson said in How to properly set up wireless access point:

      proper way to set up a wireless access point

      Thousands of brands and types exist.
      The setup isn't related to pfSense - so, if your wireless access point is really an access point, or can be setup as such, the Nighthawk manual will guide you through it.

      No "help me" PM's please. Use the forum, the community will thank you.
      Edit : and where are the logs ??

      1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 1
      • J
        JKnott @KimWatson
        last edited by Jan 9, 2020, 1:50 PM

        @KimWatson said in How to properly set up wireless access point:

        I wanted to get some feedback from anyone who knows what they're doing, as I'm not sure if this is really a proper way to set up a wireless access point.

        It might help if you provided some info on what you're planning on doing. For example, if you want to set up guest WiFi, then you'd need to used VLANs, etc. However, beyond that, as mentioned above, it's just a matter of configuring the AP. Also, instead of spending the money on that router, why not just buy a proper access point. Many of them can use PoE, so you don't have to worry about it being near AC power.

        PfSense running on Qotom mini PC
        i5 CPU, 4 GB memory, 32 GB SSD & 4 Intel Gb Ethernet ports.
        UniFi AC-Lite access point

        I haven't lost my mind. It's around here...somewhere...

        1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
        • S
          SteveITS Galactic Empire
          last edited by Jan 9, 2020, 6:09 PM

          Most wireless routers I've run into can be used as an access point. On the wireless router, don't connect its WAN, connect its LAN to your network, and turn off its DHCP so it doesn't conflict with pfSense or other DHCP server. It will need a unique LAN IP address of course. Typically it just works and then wireless devices are on your LAN.

          Pre-2.7.2/23.09: Only install packages for your version, or risk breaking it. Select your branch in System/Update/Update Settings.
          When upgrading, allow 10-15 minutes to restart, or more depending on packages and device speed.
          Upvote 👍 helpful posts!

          1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
          • S
            stephenw10 Netgate Administrator
            last edited by Jan 12, 2020, 2:42 PM

            Locking this thread. Looks like it was started only to add after-the-fact spam to the OP.

            1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
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