Wireless Access Point
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Hi All,
First I would like more enlightenment on how to implement a BYOD wireless AP for public use (Like what I need from the wireless NIC connected to the omni directional wireless antenna). Second, I would like to ask which hardware would you recommend? I am planning to implement a paid public wifi service. One box with the following services:
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Router - DHCP, DNS, Wireless AP
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Firewall
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Transparent Proxy - Web caching
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Captive Portal
It will be implemented on an Intel i3, 4-8GB RAM Dell box.
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Unless you have a really good reason not to I recommend you use an external access point for wifi rather than a wireless NIC in the pfSense box. There are a load of advantages to doing so and almost no disadvantages.
Even in 2.2 the range of wifi NICs you can use in pfSense is very limited. Using an external AP means it will work.
You can use what wifi type/speed you want, N450, AC etc.
You can place it to provide best coverage.
External access points aren't expensive at all any more.It might use marginally more power than a wifi card.
By having a card in the box you can often get access to better diagnostic stats directly.
You are connecting directly to the box so there are no cables/switches to fail. (pretty weak reason!)Steve
