Cisco Aironet 1100 Access Point
The Cisco Aironet 1100 Series supports a single 802.11g radio. Users can enjoy up to 54 Mbps data rates while maintaining full backward compatibility with legacy 802.11b devices. Administrators can configure the access point to support both 802.11g and legacy 802.11b clients for investment protection, or for higher performance, the access point can be configured to support only 802.11g clients. The Cisco Aironet 1100 Series also features an innovative mounting system for easy installation and reliable coverage in a variety of locations and orientations.
The Cisco Aironet 1100 Series is a component of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network, a comprehensive solution that delivers an integrated, end-to-end wired and wireless network. Using the radio and network management features of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network for simplified deployment, the Cisco Aironet 1100 Series extends the security, scalability, reliability, ease of deployment, and manageability available in wired networks to the wireless LAN.
The Cisco Aironet 1100 Series is available in two versions: unified or autonomous. Unified access points operate with the Lightweight Access Point Protocol (LWAPP) and work in conjunction with Cisco wireless LAN controllers and the Cisco Wireless Control System (WCS). When configured with LWAPP, the Cisco Aironet 1100 Series can automatically detect the best-available Cisco wireless LAN controller and download appropriate policies and configuration information with no manual intervention. Autonomous access points are based on Cisco IOS® Software and may optionally operate with the CiscoWorks Wireless LAN Solution Engine (WLSE). Autonomous access points, along with the CiscoWorks WLSE, deliver a core set of features and may be field-upgraded to take advantage of the full benefits of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network as requirements evolve.
How Have I Used the Cisco Aironet 1100?
I’ve set up the 1100 and used it in retail store facilities to support wireless kiosks, wireless tablets used by staff to walk around and conduct surveys, show products, and push credit card applications. The 1100s are also used to provide dynamic guest wireless access via the Cisco wireless LAN controller.
The system supports the hardware accelerated encryption methods such as the enterprise class 802.1x encryption providing the highest level of wireless security for within reach of the SMB’s budget.
In my retail organization, the 1100s are deployed at each store. The stores are all connected via an MPLS network which allows active directory authentication for users at any location. Our 802.1x configuration is all managed via Microsoft Active Directory Group Policies which allows traveling management, and executive staff to visit different locations and never have to interact with getting connected to the wireless network.
The 1100s are all powered via POE ports on integrated service routers allowing the 1100 to be hidden out of reach of an electrical outlet.
The 1100 also has 3 different mounting brackets so it can be stood up on it’s bottom, or hung by 2 different types of brackets, 1 for a cubicle wall, 1 for a ceiling to secure the equipment in place.
The 1100 also uses auto qos to make QOS configurations a breeze.
The 1100 supports up to 8 SSIDS so you can provide numerous network connection options to guests, or granulate staff access.
The Cisco 1100 is a great device, especially if you don’t need the A or N wireless spectrum.
