This article describes the configuration needed to create a Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) link for airMAX devices. The instructions below offer the configuration for both AC and M devices. The settings are very similar with just small modifications that will be pointed out for the different platforms.

• Introduction
• Initial Configuration
• Configuration for Radio Labeled 192.168.1.2 (Access Point)
• Configuration for Radio Labeled 192.168.1.3 - 192.168.1.7 (Customer Radios)
• Configuration for the the Cable/DSL Modem
• Additional Notes and Tips

Network Diagram

Introduction

PtMP links are used routinely to serve up to 100 locations from a single Access Point. There are many approaches to providing PtMP services. This example is the simplest, using a single Ubiquiti radio with an omnidirectional antenna to create a bridged network. Clearly, a more complex approach is often desired, one that uses multiple Ubiquiti radios with sector antennas along with a fully routed (rather than bridged) configuration. That however, is not the scope of this article. Most new users will benefit by starting with this simplified approach to become familiar with PtMP or to serve a smaller, limited area. 

Initial Configuration

Before following these steps, install a router as shown in the diagram above. Configure it as a DHCP server with an IP pool that is large enough to serve the number of customer devices (e.g. computers, printers, etc.) that will be served.

Note: The pool should not extend lower than 192.168.1.21. The instructions for doing this are different for each router manufacturer; please consult their support documentation for assistance if needed.

1. Restore the radio to factory default values. This is critical, especially when troubleshooting a problem. To perform a reset, press-and-hold the Reset button, power-on, release the Reset button when the lights begin to flash.
2. Connect the radio to a computer using an Ethernet cable.
3. Using a web browser, enter 192.168.1.20 as the URL to gain access to the radio's management console.
4. Enter ubnt as the administration account and ubnt as the password.
5. This article bases its configuration instructions on the network diagram above, only change the items mentioned, everything else should remain with its default values.

Configuration for Radio Labeled 192.168.1.2 (Access Point)

Configuration for Radio Labeled 192.168.1.3 through 192.168.1.7 (Customer Radios)

Configuration for the the Cable/DSL Modem

If using a Cable/DSL Modem, reboot or power cycle the modem off and on before using this link for the first time.

Additional Notes and Tips

1. Select the correct cable. Install all outdoor radios using UISP Cable Pro (for routine installations) or UISP Cable Carrier (when co-locating with a high-power VHF or UHF transmitter). If the Access Point will be co-located with high-power VHF transmitters, also use UISP shielded cabling. Use Ubiquiti's supplied Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapters and plug them into properly grounded AC outlets.

2. Configure the Customer Computing Equipment: The router / DHCP server will serve configuration information to all connected computers. Configure computer equipment for "Automatic" configuration.

3. Secure the radios. Modify the default administration account name and password now. From the web management console:

• Go to System > System Accounts
• Administrative Username [change it]
• Hover over icon to the right, Change Password and modify it (for M devices, for AC devices simply Change Password).
• Click the Change button. Then click the Apply button. (For M devices, for AC devices simply click the Save button)

4. Secure the backbone/distribution wireless network:

• Go to Wireless > Wireless Security
• Security > WPA2-AES (do NOT use TKIP, it uses CPU cycles)
• WPA Preshared Key: enter a strong password
• Click the Change button. Then click the Apply button. (For M devices, for AC devices simply click the Save button)