3Com 3CRWE725075 Conversion Manual

Conversion Guide

Converting to Managed Access Point Operation

3CRWE725075

3CRWE825075A

3CRWE875075A

1

When shipped from the factory, 3Com 7250, 8250 and 8750 Access Points are configured for 

autonomous operation (also known as standalone or FAT operation). However, these access points can 

also be configured as Managed Access Points (MAPs) for use with the 3Com Wireless Switches. This 

document describes how these access points can be configured as MAPs.

Topics covered in this document include:

Requirements

Autonomous Operation Versus MAP Operation

Understanding the MAP Conversion Process

Performing the MAP Conversion Process

Viewing LEDs in MAP Operation

Using the Reset Button in MAP Operation

Reverting a MAP to Autonomous Operation

Requirements

Converting a 3Com autonomous access point to a MAP requires the following:

Mobility System Software version 3.2 or greater

3WXM version 3.2 or greater

MAP Conversion Software

The above software files are available for download from the 3Com eSupport website at: 

www.3com.com/support.

Autonomous Operation Versus MAP Operation

When the access point is operating in MAP mode, some functionality is transferred from the access point 

to the Wireless Switch. This provides for better mobility within the wireless coverage area and allows the 

coverage area to be monitored in order to detect rogue access points. 

Some of the functional differences between an autonomous access point and a MAP are:

The MAP configuration is done through 3WXM (or the Wireless Switch). The MAP does 

not store any configuration. This makes it easier to reconfigure the wireless network. 

Any configuration that the access point had prior to the conversion to MAP mode is lost.