Tips to Optimize Wireless Bridge Connectivity Between Buildings Using Nebula smart mesh

Zyxel_Bella

Wireless bridging is a powerful solution for connecting two buildings, ensuring seamless connectivity between them. In this context, we're addressing an issue where the NWA55AXE access points, when set in bridge mode for a school, have trouble automatically reconnecting after a power outage.

Topology and Scenario:

Gateway --- Switch --- AP1(in bridge mode) ))) wireless bridge ((( AP2(in another side) --- Switch

Configuration:

To address the power outage reconnection issue and improve wireless bridging:

1. Update Firmware: Upgrade to the latest firmware version to fix any known mesh connection issues.

2. Adjust Radio Settings for 5Ghz Preference: Go to Access points > Radio settings. Reduce the 2.4GHz power to encourage connections over 5GHz.

3. Select Preferred Band: Go to Root AP detail page > Smart mesh > Band > select 5GHz or Auto.

4. Manual Channel Selection: Go to Access points > Radio settings. Manually select channels based on site survey results to avoid busy channels, especially around 3AM when DCS change channel takes place.

Verification:

•Mesh Connection: Monitor the mesh connection stability over time. Expected outcome: No random disconnections.

•Bridge Frequency: Check the frequency on which the bridge operates. Expected outcome: Preferably 5GHz.

•Reconnection After Power Outage: Simulate a power outage and see if the APs reconnect automatically. Expected outcome: Automatic reconnection without manual intervention.

Notes:

1. Wireless bridge works when only root and repeater supported and enabled smart mesh and wireless bridge.

2. Wireless bridge supported model list can be checked at Site-wide > Configure > Access points > AP & port settings > AP Smart mesh > Model list

3. If the smart mesh builds via 2.4GHz, the AP will trigger rescan every 30 mins to find if 5GHz is available or not to rebuild a connection. Thus, the smart mesh connection will drop every 30 min.