Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) has emerged as a game-changer for modern enterprise networks, offering improved application performance, security, and operational efficiency. However, the terminology surrounding SD-WAN can often seem overwhelming, especially for those new to the technology. In this article, I'll demystify some of the key terms used in the context of Extreme Networks' SD-WAN solution, helping you navigate this space with confidence.
Saturday, March 23, 2024
SD-WAN Terminology for Extreme SD-WAN
Saturday, March 9, 2024
TCP/IP Packet Format
Data Encapsulation
TCP data is encapsulated in an IP datagram.
TCP Header - RFC 173
UDP Header - RFC 768
IP Header - RFC 791, 1349, 2474, 3168
IPv6 Header - RFC 2460 (IPv6 Spec)
References
IPv6 packet (Wikipedia)
Packet Header Cheat Sheets
IPv6 cheat sheet
Understanding the IPv6 Header (Pearson)
How Traceroute Works (IP With Ease)
Ethernet frame (Wikipedia)
Sunday, February 4, 2024
Extreme Wireless - How to console into Extreme Cloud AP using a micro-USB cable
Introduction
In this guide, I'll walk you through how to connect to the Extreme Cloud AP using a micro-USB cable, including the essential step of downloading the necessary driver.
To console into an AP305C/CX, AP4xxC AP, AP5xxx, AP4xxx, AP3xxx, you need to use a micro-USB console cable because these models don’t have the RJ-45 Ethernet-type console port. The console port (5) is a micro-USB type, as shown below.
A standard micro-USB cable will not work. The cable must be a special console micro-USB cable. You can order this part/SKU #: ACC-WIFI-MICRO-USB.
Note: Micro-USB Console Cable
The best practice is to use the Extreme Networks micro USB cable (part number ACC-WIFI-MICRO-USB). When you connect to the device using the micro USB Console port, the management station from which you connect to the device must have a VT100 emulation program, such as TeraTerm Pro (a free terminal emulator) or Hilgraeve HyperTerminal.
Steps
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
Before you start, ensure you have the following:
- An Extreme Cloud AP device
- A micro-USB cable
- A computer with an available USB port
Step 2: Download the Required Driver
To communicate with the Extreme Cloud AP via the micro-USB port, your computer needs the correct driver installed. Here’s how to download the driver from the FTDI Chip website:
- Visit FTDI Chip Drivers page.
Navigate to the USB Drivers section and look for the appropriate driver for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.).
※ The Windows Device Manager will identify the device as FTDI FT232R USB UART.Click on the download link for the VCP (Virtual COM Port) drivers.
- Follow the installation instructions provided on the website or within the downloaded files.
Step 3: Connect the Micro-USB Cable
- Power off the Extreme Cloud AP to avoid any configuration issues.
- Connect one end of the micro-USB cable to the micro-USB console port on the AP.
- Connect the other end of the cable to an available USB port on your computer.
- Power on the AP.
Step 4: Access the AP’s Console
After connecting the cable and powering on the AP, you’ll need to access the console through a terminal program such as PuTTY (for Windows) or Terminal (for macOS and Linux).
- Open your terminal program of choice.
- Configure the terminal session to match the AP’s console settings (typically 9600 baud rate, 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit, and no flow control).
- Select the COM port assigned to your USB connection. You can find this in your computer’s Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS).
- Once connected, you should see the AP’s console output.
Note: Console baud rate
The AP5010 and AP5050 models support 115200 baud rate when using the console port to access the command line interface in IQ Engine (IQE).
All previous Cloud AP models supported 9600 baud.
If the AP is in a factory default state the username/password combination will be one of these two options:
admin/aerohive or admin/Aerohive1
Step 5: Configure Your Extreme Cloud AP
Now that you have access to the AP’s console, you can proceed with its configuration. Follow the on-screen prompts or enter the commands for your specific setup requirements. This process may involve setting up basic network settings, updating the firmware, or configuring the AP for integration into your existing network.
Conclusion
Connecting to your Extreme Cloud AP using a micro-USB cable is a straightforward process that enables direct access for configuration and troubleshooting. Remember, the key to a successful connection lies in having the correct driver installed on your computer. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth setup experience for your Extreme Cloud AP.
For more detailed information, troubleshooting tips, and advanced configuration options, refer to the Extreme Networks documentation and support resources.
References
How To: XIQ - How to console into an Extreme Cloud (XIQ) AP using a micro USB console cable | Extreme Portal
Q A: Where can I get a console cable for a universal access point? | Extreme Portal
ExtremeWireless Indoor Access Point - Quick Reference - AP5010.pdf