Dhcp Support; Multi-Function Leds; Mesh Networking - Motorola AP-7131 Product Reference Manual

Introduction 1-15

1.1.24 DHCP Support

The access point can use Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) to obtain a leased IP address
and configuration information from a remote server. DHCP is based on the BOOTP protocol and can
coexist or interoperate with BOOTP. Configure the access point to send out a DHCP request searching
for a DHCP/BOOTP server to acquire HTML, firmware or network configuration files when the access
point boots. Because BOOTP and DHCP interoperate, whichever responds first becomes the server
that allocates information.
The access point can be set to only accept replies from DHCP or BOOTP servers or both (this is the
default setting). Disabling DHCP disables BOOTP and DHCP and requires network settings to be set
manually. If running both DHCP and BOOTP, do not select BOOTP Only. BOOTP should only be used
when the server is running BOOTP exclusively.
The DHCP client automatically sends a DHCP request at an interval specified by the DHCP server to
renew the IP address lease as long as the access point is running (this parameter is programmed at
the DHCP server). For example: Windows 2000 servers typically are set for 3 days.

1.1.25 Multi-Function LEDs

Six LEDs illuminate on the front of the AP-7131 (on top of the AP-7131 housing) for dual radios models
and five illuminate for single radio models. Two LEDs (for above the ceiling installations) are located
on the back of the device.
The LEDs on the top housing of the AP-7131 are clearly visible in wall and below ceiling installations.
For detailed information on the access point LEDs and their functionality, see AP-7131 LED Indicators
on page 2-19.

1.1.26 Mesh Networking

Utilize the new mesh networking functionality to allow the access point to function as a bridge to
connect two Ethernet networks or as a repeater to extend your network's coverage area without
additional cabling. Mesh networking is configurable in two modes. It can be set in a wireless client
bridge mode and/or a wireless base bridge mode (which accepts connections from client bridges).
These two modes are not mutually exclusive.
In client bridge mode, the access point scans to find other access points using the selected WLAN's
ESSID. The access point must go through the association and authentication process to establish a
wireless connection. The mesh networking association process is identical to the access point's MU
association process. Once the association/authentication process is complete, the wireless client
adds the connection as a port on its bridge module. This causes the access point (in client bridge