Hello AREDN Community,
I'm currently setting up a network that includes a MikroTik hAP ac lite router and a NanoStation LocoM2, and I'm seeking advice on the best way to network these devices together within the AREDN framework. My goal is to ensure seamless connectivity and optimal performance for both devices, leveraging the unique capabilities of AREDN.
Current Setup:
- MikroTik hAP ac Lite
- NanoStation LocoM2
Objectives:
- Integrate the NanoStation LocoM2 with the MikroTik hAP ac Lite to create a cohesive and efficient network.
- Ensure devices connected to the NanoStation can communicate seamlessly with devices on the MikroTik network and vice versa.
- Optimize settings for both devices for the best performance within the AREDN network, considering factors like channel selection, power settings, and network topology.
Questions:
-
Configuration Advice: What are the recommended configurations for both the MikroTik hAP ac Lite and the NanoStation LocoM2 to achieve my objectives? Are there specific settings or modes (e.g., bridge mode for the LocoM2) that would be most effective?
-
Networking Tips: How should I structure my network to best leverage the capabilities of AREDN? Are there particular networking principles or practices I should follow to ensure compatibility and performance?
-
Additional Recommendations: Any tips on monitoring, maintenance, or troubleshooting within this setup would be greatly appreciated. Also, if there are any additional hardware or software tools you recommend integrating into my network, I'm open to suggestions.
Thank you in advance for your insights and assistance. I'm looking forward to leveraging your collective expertise to enhance my network's functionality and performance within the AREDN ecosystem.
Best regards, KN4TLV
Hi, James:
I assume that you have loaded AREDN firmware on both devices and
configured them according to the documentation on this site
(https://docs.arednmesh.org/en/latest/).
A common way to link these devices is to connect an ethernet cable
between the LAN port on the POE injector of the loco nanostation and
port 5 of the hAP-ac-lite.
If/when you wish to link with other AREDN stations directly via RF or
via a VPN internet tunnel, please provide information about that.
Michael N9MS is about 8 miles from you.
Perhaps you know him or could leave him a PM here at arednmesh.org.
Michael's Bullet M2 was last refreshed in the AREDN MAP on 2023-06-24 13:34:17.040729.
73, Chuck
|
+------------+------------+
| |
(Port 2) (PoE Port 5)
| |
Network Switch (Port 1) Loco M2
|
(Port 2)
|
PC
This is the general topology that I was thinking of, but when I hook everything up I can't find the Loco M2 ip address and the "localnode" address for the locom2 doesn't work.
That is a logical diagram.
Aside:
The 'Network Switch (Port 1)' is redundant at this point.
Connect your PC to port 2 or 3 or 4 on the hAP.
73, Chuck
|
+--- MikroTik Router
|
+--- PC (Port 1)
|
+--- Network Switch (Port 2)
| |
| +--- Additional Devices
|
+--- Loco M2 (PoE Port 5)
I could do this as an alternative as long as the MicroTik serves internet to the devices on the lower network switch. But I'd still need to know how to find the web interface for the Loco M2.
Your diagram may not work.
You do not indicate which port of the hAP is connected to your ISP.
You do not indicate which port of the hAP is connected to your PC.
The 'Network Switch' is redundant.
On the hAP, often the ISP connects to Port 1;
up to 3 'Additional Devices' connect to Ports 2,3,4;
1 AREDN device connects to Port 5.
If you have more than 3 devices that you want on the LAN of the hAP, then you need a '(simple) Network Switch' and
this 'LAN Network Switch' connects to Port 2 or 3 or 4.
If you have more than 1 AREDN device to connect via DtD, then you need a
'Network Switch' that will pass 'tagged' traffic (most do) connected to port 5 of the hAP.
"how to find the web interface for the Loco M2":
When your equipment is set up like I suggest and your PC is connected to port 2 or 3 or 4 of the hAP, then
the web GUI of the Loco M2 will be a clickable link on the GUI of the hAP and
also addressable via its 'mesh address: x.x.x.x/8'
73, Chuck
As I said, there are multiple ways do hook things up. The above recommended way is not how I'm doing it, but I am also not using a consumer grade router at home. What I am doing can not be done with most consumer grade routers. What I am doing works very well for me.