Description
More Information for the Cisco AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 54MBPS Wireless Access Point
In the dynamic landscape of networking and connectivity, the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 Cisco 54MBPS Wireless Access Point stands out as a reliable and high-performance solution. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a detailed exploration of this wireless access point, breaking down its features, capabilities, and potential applications.
Understanding the Basics
The AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 is part of Cisco’s Aironet series, designed to deliver robust wireless connectivity in various environments. At its core, it operates on the 802.11g standard, offering a maximum data rate of 54 MBPS. This standard ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and provides a balance between speed and range.
Key Features
- Wireless Standards and Compatibility: The AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 adheres to the 802.11g standard, which is widely accepted in the industry for its compatibility and performance. This ensures seamless integration with existing wireless networks and support for a diverse array of devices.
- High Data Rate: With a maximum data rate of 54MBPS, this Cisco wireless access point facilitates faster data transfer, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications. Whether it’s HD video streaming or large file downloads, users can experience a smoother and more responsive wireless connection.
- Versatile Deployment Options: The flexibility of the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 extends to its deployment options. It can be utilized in various scenarios, including office environments, educational institutions, and public spaces. Its versatile nature makes it an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor deployments.
- Enhanced Security Features: Security is a paramount concern in wireless networks, and the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 addresses this with advanced security features. WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) and WPA2 protocols, along with AES encryption, provide a robust defense against unauthorized access and data breaches.
- Quality of Service (QoS): To ensure a seamless user experience, the QoS feature prioritizes traffic, giving preference to applications that require a stable and reliable connection. This is particularly beneficial in environments where a variety of applications with different bandwidth requirements coexist.
Applications and Use Cases
- Enterprise Environments: In large enterprises, the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 proves its mettle by providing widespread wireless coverage. Its high data rate and security features make it suitable for supporting a multitude of devices concurrently, from laptops and smartphones to IoT devices.
- Educational Institutions: Educational institutions can leverage the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 to create a connected learning environment. Its ability to handle a high number of users, coupled with its security features, ensures that students and faculty enjoy a reliable and secure wireless network.
- Public Spaces and Hotspots: The versatility of this Cisco wireless access point extends to public spaces, where it can be deployed to provide Wi-Fi access in parks, shopping malls, and other high-traffic areas. Its robust design allows it to withstand various weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use.
- Healthcare Facilities: In healthcare settings, where connectivity is critical for various applications, the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 plays a crucial role. Its ability to support a high number of connected devices ensures that medical professionals can access patient information and communicate seamlessly.
Design and Physical Characteristics
- Form Factor: The AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 is designed with a sleek and compact form factor, making it suitable for various deployment scenarios. Whether it’s mounted on walls or ceilings, its unobtrusive design ensures it can seamlessly blend into the surroundings.
- Antenna Configuration: The wireless access point features an adjustable antenna configuration, allowing users to optimize the signal coverage based on their specific needs. This flexibility is crucial in environments where wireless signals may face obstacles or interference.
- LED Indicators: The device is equipped with LED indicators that provide visual feedback on the status of the access point. These indicators can convey information about power, connectivity, and other important operational aspects, aiding in troubleshooting and maintenance.
Deployment Scenarios
- Home Networks: The AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 is well-suited for home networks, providing a reliable and high-speed wireless connection for various devices such as laptops, smartphones, and smart home devices. Its easy installation and PoE support make it an attractive choice for residential users.
- Small to Medium-sized Businesses: In a business setting, this Cisco wireless access point can be deployed to create a secure and efficient wireless network. Its dual-band support and robust security features make it suitable for handling the demands of a small to medium-sized business environment.
- Enterprise Environments: For larger enterprises, multiple AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 units can be strategically deployed to provide comprehensive wireless coverage. The ability to scale and manage these access points centrally enhances the overall efficiency of the network.
Security Features
- WPA and WPA2 Encryption: The AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 supports Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 encryption protocols, ensuring a secure wireless connection. These encryption methods are essential for protecting sensitive data transmitted over the network.
- MAC Address Filtering: Administrators can implement MAC address filtering to control which devices are allowed to connect to the wireless network. This adds an extra layer of security by limiting access to authorized devices only.
- Virtual LAN (VLAN) Support: The support for VLANs enables network administrators to segment the wireless network into different virtual networks, enhancing security and network management capabilities.
Management and Configuration
- Web-Based Interface: Configuring and managing the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 is made user-friendly through a web-based interface. This interface allows administrators to access and modify settings, monitor performance, and troubleshoot issues remotely.
- Cisco Wireless LAN Controller Integration: For larger deployments, these access points can be integrated with Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers, providing centralized management and control. This integration streamlines configuration changes, firmware updates, and monitoring tasks across multiple access points.
Reliability of Aironet 1240AG Series
The Cisco Aironet 1240AG Series Wireless Access Point (model AIR-AP1242G-A-K9) is designed to be a reliable wireless access point for enterprise environments. The device supports various features that contribute to its reliability, such as:
- Redundant Power Supplies: The access point supports both internal and external power supplies, allowing for a redundant power source in case of failure.
- Multiple SSIDs: The access point supports multiple SSIDs which allows network administrators to segment their network into different logical networks, each with its security settings.
- Quality of Service (QoS): The access point supports Quality of Service (QoS) which allows network administrators to prioritize certain types of network traffic, such as voice or video, to ensure that they are delivered with the appropriate level of service.
- Advanced Security: The access point supports advanced security features such as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Cisco’s own Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption. This ensures that the wireless network is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
- Cisco Wireless Control System (WCS): The access point is also compatible with Cisco’s Wireless Control System (WCS), which allows for centralized management of wireless networks and enables network administrators to quickly identify and troubleshoot wireless network issues.
All these features work together to provide a reliable wireless network for enterprise environments.
Compliant Standards
The AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 is a Cisco Aironet 1240AG series wireless access point that is compliant with various industry standards. These standards include the IEEE 802.11a/b/g wireless standards, which are commonly used for wireless networking in homes, businesses, and public spaces. Additionally, the access point is also compliant with the 2.4 and 5GHz frequency bands, which allow for increased flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of wireless devices. The access point also supports Cisco’s proprietary security features such as Cisco Aironet Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) for enhanced security. Furthermore, it also supports Cisco’s Wireless Control System (WCS) and Cisco Wireless Location Appliance (WLA) for centralized management and location-based services.
General Information about this Cisco AIR-AP1242G-A-K9
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# AIR-AP1242G-A-K9
- Product Line: Aironet
- Product Series: 1240AG
- Product Name: Aironet 1242 802.11g Non-modular Access Point
- Product Type: Wireless Access Point
Technical Specifications: Cisco Wireless Access Point – AIR-AP1242G-A-K9
- Wireless LAN Standard: IEEE 802.11b/g
- ISM Band: Yes
- ISM Minimum Frequency: 2.41 GHz
- ISM Maximum Frequency: 2.46 GHz
- Antenna Connector: Dual RP-TNC Connector
- Indoor Antenna Range: 460 ft
- Outdoor Antenna Range: 950 ft
- Wireless Transmission Speed: 54 Mbit/s
Wireless Security
- WEP encryption length: 40/128-bits
- IEEE 802.1x
- IEEE 802.11i
- WPA
- WPA2
- TKIP
- AES
- Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP)
- EAP Flexible Authentication via Secure Tunneling (EAP FAST)
- Protected EAP Generic Token Card (PEAP GTC)
- PEAP Microsoft Challenge Authentication Protocol Version 2 (PEAP MSCHAP)
- EAP Transport Layer Security (EAP TLS)
- EAP Tunneled TLS (EAP TTLS)
- EAP Subscriber Identity Module (EAP SIM)
- LEAP
Interfaces / Ports of WAP 1240AG Series
- Fast Ethernet Port: Yes
- Management Port: Yes
Power Description
- Input Voltage: 110 V AC, 220 V AC, 48 V DC
- Power Source: Power Supply
Miscellaneous
- Additional Information:
- IEEE 802.1af PoE support
- Range measured with 2.2-dBi dipole antenna for 2.4 GHz
- System Memory:
- 32 MB RAM
- 16 MB flash memory
- Certifications & Standards:
- IEEE 802.11g
- IEEE 802.11b
- IEEE 802.1x
- IEEE 802.11i
- IEEE 802.3af
- IEEE 802.3
- IEEE 802.3u
- RSS-102
- Wi-Fi
- Safety:
- UL 60950-1
- CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 60950-1
- UL 2043
- IEC 60950-1
- EN 60950-1
Finally, the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 Cisco 54MBPS Wireless Access Point stands as a testament to Cisco’s dedication to delivering high-performance and secure wireless solutions. From its compatibility with industry standards to its versatile deployment options and robust security features, this wireless access point caters to the diverse connectivity needs of modern environments.
As organizations and industries continue to embrace wireless technologies, the AIR-AP1242G-A-K9 remains a reliable choice, promising not only speed and efficiency but also adaptability to the ever-changing landscape of networking. Whether in large enterprises, educational institutions, public spaces, or healthcare facilities, the Cisco 54MBPS Wireless Access Point proves its worth as a cornerstone in building and maintaining resilient wireless networks.
