Configure AP as repeater when using WLC

[Chris1024]

   I need to configure an AP as a repeater. We have the perfect scenario for it, as we only have two client devices that are very low demand. We just need to extend the coverage a bit. I have an 1852 and a 2702 at my disposal. I would like to use the 2702 if at all possible. Is it possible for either of these devices to be used as a wireless repeater? They would be connecting to an existing 2702 running off of a WLC. I am a noob to the Cisco AP / WLC stuff so any assistance would be appreciated. 

[Flavio Miranda · Accepted solution]

Hi

Take a look here:

https://rscciew.wordpress.com/2014/11/15/wlc-mesh-network-configuration/

-If I helped you somehow, please, rate it as useful.-

[Chris1024]

 A couple of questions. Just to be clear, as we do not have any other mesh configurations, this will not affect any of the other APs on the controller will it? Second question, is the section below mandatory? Sorry if these are basic questions but I have little experience with this. 

Ethernet Bridging: By default it’s disabled, traffic from MAP Ethernet is blocked on Backhaul. To allow traffic from MAP Ethernet we have to enable this feature on both RAP and MAP.

***Note: By default Ethernet bridging is not allowed, it’s dropped on RAP Ethernet port, untagged.   To allow VLAN tagging we must disable VLAN Transparent option(Wireless > Mesh). Once we disable it VLAN tag will be accepted.

[Chris1024]

  Any help here? 

[Scott Fella]

Chris,

Have you at at least tried to configure the RAP and then MAP to see if that works for you?  You need to make sure that your AP’s are not too far away to make a link. This is the same for repeaters. Repeaters can only be used on Autonomous AP’s and a setting has to be performed on the wlan so that the repeater connects.

Repeater:

https://mrncciew.com/2013/01/20/autonomous-ap-repeater/

There are many blogs on repeater’s out there but MESH is way better if you have a controller. However, the 18x2 doesn’t support mesh and can’t be used as a repeater. So you are stuck with using the 2702 as a repeater and having to convert that AP to Autonomous which you will need to be able to download the code for. If you don’t have access to download the code, then I would suggest you find another 2702 and setup mesh if you can.