Advantek Networks AWR-11N-RT User Manual page 50

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[WDS Setting]
A Wireless Distribution System is a system that enables the interconnection of access points
wirelessly. It allows a wireless network to be expanded using multiple access points without
the need for a wired backbone to link them.
WDS is another way for AP router to join an existing Wi-Fi network. The WDS feature is
normally used in large, open areas where pulling a wire is restricted or not cost effective and
in residential circumstances. User can use this feature to build up a large wireless network in
a large space like airports, hotels and schools...etc. This feature is also useful when users
want to bridge networks between buildings where it is impossible to deploy network cable
connections between these buildings.
WDS:
(1) Restricted – Restricted mode is used when the access point is connected to a wired
backbone through its wired (usually Ethernet) interface. WDS peers must be registered with
AP router (by MAC addresses).
(2) Bridge – AP router will function as a wireless bridge, merely forwarding traffic between
access points, and will not respond to wireless requests. In fact, they become wireless
bridges while configured in this manner. Only a small number of access points on the market
have bridge functionality, which typically adds significant cost to the equipment. The WDS
peers must be manually stated and wireless stations will not be able to connect to AP router.
You can see from below diagram that clients do not associate to bridges, but rather, bridges
are used to link two or more wired segments together wirelessly.
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