View Full Version : Connecting a wired and wireless lan to share internet with one switch
soty
Feb 10, 2009, 04:37 AM
Hello everyone,
We currently have a wireless internet connection in my office. A new computer lab has just been wired and connected to a switch. I want to connect this lab to my wireless switch so that the computers in the lab can access the internet. Do I need a server in the lab? How do I go about it?
Thanks.
Soty:confused:
rwinterton
Feb 10, 2009, 02:01 PM
I think you need a Wireless Access Point connected to the switch.
Scleros
Feb 10, 2009, 02:05 PM
Do I need a server in the lab?
No.
How do I go about it?
One way could be using another access point configured for bridging to the original access point connected to the lab switch. But, the options available are dependent on your current access point's capabilities (what access point?). Another issue that might arise and be unsatisfactory is getting sufficient bandwidth to all of the lab computers (how many? How will lab be used?) over a single wireless connection. Hardwiring gigabit copper or fiber might be a better route if needs merit.
soty
Feb 11, 2009, 01:40 AM
Thanks Scleros. We have a D-link switch connected to a router that connects us to the University's ICT Unit. The lab has 24 computers and is expected to be used to access some online databases like hinari, jstor and agora.
chuckhole
Feb 11, 2009, 11:46 AM
Check with your University IT Department first. If your wireless Internet connection is not secured or does not meet the minimum security standards for your University, they may not want the lab connected to your Internet connection.
Scleros
Feb 11, 2009, 02:06 PM
We have a D-link switch connected to a router that connects us to the University's ICT Unit.
Sheesh, that's a pertinent detail to leave out. Chuck's right, the University's network could be compromised if things aren't done just so.