We all tend to rely on Wi-Fi for network access today, but increasingly the network itself is relying on Wi-Fi to provide backhaul connectivity between campus buildings or sites. Where previously enterprise Wi-Fi and 
point-to-point (PTP) would typically be two separate technologies, we now see more and more enterprise Wi-Fi vendors utilizing their existing solution to supply Wi-Fi for both scenarios, creating a unified wireless infrastructure.
For organizations this means that a single management platform can be used to design, deploy, and support both indoor and outdoor wireless deployments.
Up to the task?
So, should enterprise vendors really produce backhaul connectivity solutions for organizations? Their solutions are surely best left to the office and classrooms of the world? We think not…
We developed the AP1130for two reasons:
- To provide high-speed Wi-Fi to every mobile user, device and application, regardless of location.
- To create highly resilient, high-speed backhaul connectivity between buildings or campuses.
The AP1130 boasts some pretty cool functionality that makes it ideal for PTP connectivity:
- First, we implemented visual and audible tuning mechanisms that make alignment and tuning simple.
- Secondly, we added a directional antenna to our portfolio to ensure highly focused signal between two APs, increasing bandwidth potential.
- Next, mix up the power options. The AP is equipped with both PoE and DC, so go ahead and use a solar panel for your AP … unless you live in England like I do, and we see the sun approximately five times a year … optimistically speaking.
- Then, load it up with Aerohive’s co-operative control protocol that we use in all of our wireless products, creating highly survivable mesh connectivity with no single points of failure – critical for PTP.
- Finally, place all of this amazing capability into a ruggedized yet lightweight chassis, making it easy to install…if you’ve ever installed an outdoor unit at any kind of height you are going to appreciate the weight reduction!
When the going gets TOUGH ...
What’s a good distance for the AP1130? For the fun of it (sounded fun in theory), we decided to strap an AP1130 to our back and run 13 miles through mud, submersion, ice, electroshocks and more…see the video. Want to see some real-world deployments of Aerohive's outdoor APs? Read here.
Ready for the outdoor PTP challenge? Absolutely!
We are really excited to add the enhanced PTP functionality to our outdoor units as it gives organizations a single platform for both indoor, outdoor, and everything in-between Wi-Fi.