Archived from groups: alt.internet.wireless (
More info?)
Blackrat999 wrote:
>>I have a 3com all in one modem/router which works fine in my house, no
>>problems at all,
>>but the neighbours want to help me with my isp costs and would like to
>>join in !!
>>I dont appear to be able to find any aerials compatible with extending the
>>range so i have been
>>looking at some Linksys ones, any suggestions as to what to get, maybe
>>with an expander or
>>an external aerial greatfully received.
>>cheers
>>
>
>
> Im looking at the Netgear DG834G router and the ANT2049M outdoor aerial so
> far
> looks like it would do the job, any comments anyone ?
>
>
In this scenario, you will be acting as a sort of wireless ISP. So your
house will be the central node and contain the Internet backhaul (via
your connection) This needs to be distributed amongst a few houses in
the area, so you'll need:
Probably an omni directional (depending on the topography, you could use
a sector) antenna at your premises, depends on the range required, but
9-12DBi should suffice for a few miles with clear line of sight.
Probably mounted externally (or in the loft).
A router, which you already have.
For each extra house:
1 wireless bridge, or AP in client bridge mode - the DG834G supports this.
1 x directional antenna (possibly outdoor)- panel, yagi, parabolic -
it's your choice, pointing towards the omni at your house (use GPS if
you are having problems with alignment).
Security is a big concern with this type of setup.
Only allow the MAC addresses of the client bridges to pass through the
router at your house - to prevent anyone within range of your omni from
connecting (without a contribution $). Enable WPA, and, if you require
further security, use a RADIUS server to authenticate each user before
letting them through.
Install firewalls at the edge of each LAN (attach a router / FW to each
bridge, and a switch / hub or access point behind this at each house -
including your own). This will provide protection to the machines
located at each neighbors' house)
If you do need to mount the antennae externally, keep coax runs as short
as possible (<5ft), if this is not possible because of the location of
power outlets then use Power over ethernet to get the AP(bridge) as
close to the antenna as possible.
Any ideas on an acceptable use policy? If you (or your neighbors) have
the cash, then take a look at smartbridges AirPoint XO for your main
router & Smartbridge Total for the CPE (i.e. the other houses).
Expensive, but very robust & carrier grade.
Hope this Helps
Peter Phillips
Software Director
Kinetiq Networks Ltd (UK)
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