re: Dynamic IP Addresses & WLAN APs

[chhoa1]

Hi,

Question 1.

We intend to run the Advanced Version (centralized network config) with FS being hosted at a remote location (datacenter). We will design to have multiple hotspots connecting to this remote location for authentication with FS.

Each hotspot is provisioned with DSL that has only a dynamic IP address (the connectivity has no fixed IP addresses). Is that possible?

Question 2.

Does most APs work with FS? Such as DLINK, etc


Many thanks.

[kevin]

Hello,

Question 1

>> In this case, you can set up a site-to-site VPN tunnel from each of your hotspot location to the datacenter. There are quite many different brands and models of such appliance available in the market, ranging from US$90 to US$200+, depending on the number of VPN channels that can be established.

For example, you can get a 2-channel VPN appliance (which can connect to DSL/cable at the WAN side) at each hotspot location and install a 8-channel one at the data-center. This will make your centralized FirstSpot capable to tunnel with 8 hotspot locations.

Question 2

>> Yes, FirstSpot works with any AP.

~ Patronsoft Limited ~

[chhoa]

Hi,

On Q1., our concern is whether we can use a NON-FIXED IP Address (that is--dynamic IP Address) connection to link for example a hotspot (DSL connectivity with a dynamic IP Address) to the FS located at a remote site. This is an important consideration for us in our evaluation as dynamic IP address DSL service price is lower than fixed IP address.

On your response, do we need to VPN tunnel every AP or hotspot to the remote site where FS is being hosted?

Many thanks.

[kevin]

Hello chhoa,

If you go for a VPN solution, I believe it doesn't matter if the ip is dynamic or static, as long as each hotspot has a static ip address (at the datacenter) to call to establish a tunnel.

And yes, you need one VPN channel for each hotspot <-> datacentre connection.

~ Patronsoft Limited ~

[chhoa]

Hi Karl,

Many thanks for your super fast response.

Q1

Can we use DSL with dynamic IP addresses at the hotspot, and not use a VPN solution?

Q2

You mentioned about VPN appliances between USD90 to 200. Would most appreciate if you can suggest some brands/vendors.

Many thanks.

Cheers,
chhoa

[kevin]

Q1

Without VPN tunnel, each hotspot will have difficulties to seek FirstSpot before going to the Internet; even with a static ip. Unless you have assistance from your ISP to force traffic from each hotspot to the datacenter (in this case, you will then need a static ip).

Q2

We'll send you a separte mail on this.

~ Patronsoft Limited ~

[chhoa]

Hi Karl,

Many thanks & hv a good evening.

Cheers,
chhoa