Advice needed. Connecting two buildings to same network.

Fusiongtx · Jun 24, 2013

I am in search of some good advice here. We need to give building "B" access to the network that is in building "A". Building "B is no more than 150 yards away from our router in building A.

From my current research and understanding, we will need to install two access points, and two antennas (wifi boosters). The server room in building A has a direct line of sight to the router location in B so this will not be an issue.

What type of equipment do we need? Is there a need for two access points and antennas?

Please offer any advice you think would be helpful.

Much appreciated.

itpro · Jun 24, 2013

I have use wireless to do just this in many locations. Basically, what you need is a pair of access points that support "bridge" mode. When set up as a bridge, the access points are configured to only talk to each other, and just extend your copper network across the gap between the buildings. I like to use directional antennas, even though in your case the distance is not too great, because that improves both signal strength and security. Since the access points are only talking to each other, you don't need high levels of encryption. I have used several different brands and models, but have had great reliability from D-Link equipment, which has many models that support bridge connections at a reasonable price. There are power over Ethernet models that can be mounted outside, but at the short distance you are bridging I would just use indoor models and put the antennas in windows facing each other, or drill a hole through the wall and mount the antennas outside but keep the access point itself indoors.

Fusiongtx · Jul 2, 2013

Any other tips?

fyrye · Jul 2, 2013

I presume you are looking at this option to minimize costs for a company since you used the words "our" and "server room".
If you can get internet in both buildings you can setup a domain or a VPN and access the same network that way, as well if it is a company that you are expanding, this will put in the ground work for future expansions to out of county/state/country offices. EG: ca.mydomain.com -> fl.mydomain.com -> ja.mydomain.com -> uk.mydomain.com
You can also use a cheap PC as an internal and external DNS server/filter to route traffic, and allow your server to act as a data center.
http://ashishd.wordpress.com/2011/06/27/accessing-you-home-network-over-internet-part-i-without-vpn/
http://compnetworking.about.com/od/vpnsetup/VPN_Setup_How_to_Set_Up_a_VPN.htm

FSO is another option since you have direct line of site, but may be too pricey.
If you are stuck on using WiFi I suggest using the 5ghz band as opposed to 2.4ghz since it will provide less interference.

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Advice needed. Connecting two buildings to same network.

Fusiongtx

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itpro

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Fusiongtx

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fyrye

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