Network Bridging Technology in Industrial Wireless Distribution Systems

[Erkan Teskancan]

## Network Bridging Technology in Industrial Wireless Distribution Systems

At the heart of high-performance networks in industrial wireless environments are Wireless Distribution System (WDS) bridges. These bridges play a critical role by transforming isolated access points into a unified, scalable network structure.

Wireless Distribution System (WDS) bridges provide reliable and intelligent network bridging in large factories, campus areas, or remote field locations. In areas where wired Ethernet infrastructure is challenging, costly, or impossible to implement, WDS eliminates the need for cables, thereby reducing cost, complexity, and the risk of downtime.

### Why Do Industrial Environments Prefer WDS?

In manufacturing plants and industrial sites, using wired Ethernet is often impractical. Laying cables in active production areas, providing connectivity in open spaces, or connecting scattered areas across a campus entails high installation costs and operational disruptions. IEEE 802.11-based WDS technology connects access points wirelessly instead of with cables, offering fast, cost-effective, and flexible network solutions.

### How Does WDS Bridge Configuration Work?

In a WDS network, one device is designated as the main access point (main base station) and provides the connection to the wired network. Other access points (relay stations or remote base stations) connect wirelessly to the main point to facilitate data transmission.

• Point-to-Point: Wireless connectivity is established between two access points using high-gain directional antennas over distances where laying cables is costly or not feasible.
• Point-to-Multipoint: A single main access point connects to multiple remote access points simultaneously, allowing for centralized network distribution in large facilities or campuses.

In a point-to-multipoint setup, all access points must share the same SSID, wireless channel, authentication, and security settings, and also be within the same LAN IP subnet. Both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands are suitable for WDS bridging, but bridging cannot be done between different bands in a single connection.

### Critical Design Elements

• Access Point Placement and Signal Strength: Each WDS hop introduces latency and potentially reduces data speed. Placing APs too far apart exacerbates this effect. For optimal performance, strategic placement should be used to optimize signal strength and line of sight.
• Security and Access Control: Since industrial networks are critical infrastructure, WDS access should be limited to authorized personnel. While WEP can be used for compatibility with older systems, WPA and WPA2 protocols are preferred in modern installations to enhance security and encryption levels.

### Antaira WDS Bridge Solutions

Antaira offers robust WDS bridge hardware suitable for industrial environments:

• AMY-5133-AC-PD: A compact and affordable 802.11 5 GHz wireless AP/Client Bridge, designed for simple WDS setups.
• ARX-7235-AC-PD-T: A multifunctional industrial device; offering 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Access Point, Client, Bridge, Repeater, Router, NAT, and VPN features in a single PoE PD device.

Both platforms provide secure and stable wireless bridging required by industrial operations. Antaira's full portfolio includes industrial wireless routers, IoT gateways, access points, clients, and repeaters, all manufactured to the same high standards.

Antaira products are designed to withstand harsh environments such as extreme temperatures, high humidity, vibration, shock, and industrial electromagnetic interference. This durability is integrated into the devices through industrial engineering principles, ensuring your wireless distribution system operates seamlessly without being affected by environmental conditions.

### About Antaira

Since 2005, Antaira Technologies has been developing and manufacturing high-quality industrial networking and communication solutions. Its product portfolio includes industrial Ethernet switches, wireless devices, media converters, and serial communication equipment. Antaira provides reliable solutions for critical applications in automation, transportation, security, oil and gas, energy, and healthcare sectors. It is ISO9001 certified.