What Is Point-to-Point Wireless?

What is P2P wireless?

P2P wireless is a networking technology that links two specific locations using secure, high-speed radio signals. This practice removes the need for long cable runs between the sites. Many of the best business internet service providers offer P2P wireless solutions because these connections are reliable. Plus, they can create a secure online network across multiple worksites that may be several miles apart.

P2P wireless shares similarities with Bluetooth technology. However, Bluetooth allows you to transfer data between devices in proximity without physically connecting them, while P2P wireless operates on a larger, more sophisticated scale.

Instead of connecting two phones, a P2P wireless connection creates a bridge between two secure access points with a clear line of sight. Once a P2P connection is established, you can connect multiple systems to create a secure network for your entire business.

Advances in P2P wireless technology have led to cost-effective, highly secure networks that offer the speed and flexibility needed for a network to grow with your business.

How does P2P wireless work?

A P2P wireless connection operates through a dedicated device in a network — a “point” — to send data to an endpoint wirelessly using radio signals. This technology is often used to extend business internet across multiple locations, providing a secure, high-speed connection without the need for physical cabling.

“P2P wireless can be described as a ‘wireless wire,'” noted Chris Sherwood, owner of VoIP and networking specialists Crosstalk Solutions. “By aiming two purpose-built antennas at each other, you create a secure wireless link that can go much farther than typical client access points for your devices.”

Other types of equipment can also enable a point-to-multipoint (PtMP) wireless connection, where data is transmitted to multiple endpoints simultaneously. Some P2P technologies also use lasers instead of radio signals. Regardless of the configuration, the core function remains the same. Here are the basics:

• P2P internet requires a clear line of sight. The different points on a P2P wireless network require a clear line of sight between each other to work. This is the case whether you’re using repeater hubs, microwave relays or parabolic dishes.
• It uses radio waves. P2P wireless access points send data in 3D radio frequency waves, similar to radio stations. But, instead of the static and interference you get with a weak radio signal, you may experience a slower network with potential data loss.
• P2P point ranges can differ. Depending on the device, the range between two P2P links can vary from 100 feet to 30 miles.
• Different frequencies affect P2P internet. Different frequencies give you different ranges and speeds to work with. For example, a P2P bridge running at a 2.4GHz frequency can deliver transfer speeds up to 170 Mbps with a range up to 9 miles. Meanwhile, a P2P laser connection can provide blazing speeds up to 10 Gbps, but its range is limited to 350 meters.
• Your network directly impacts P2P connections. Data flows in both directions on P2P connections. So, your network’s speed, reach and configuration will impact performance. For example, if you have a high-bandwidth surveillance system running on a low-speed connection, the network may become unstable and slow for the rest of your team. You must consider these kinds of “bandwidth bandits” before building your network and deciding on the internet speed you want.
• P2P access points work with common Wi-Fi protocols. Most of today’s P2P access points support common Wi-Fi standards, such as 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be. This means your business can expect a performance similar to a Wi-Fi network but not at the same level as a wired Ethernet connection.
• Its access point devices are secure. As an extra precaution, P2P access point devices come with Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) wireless security to keep prying eyes out and your data safe.

Advances in P2P wireless technology have led to cost-effective, highly secure networks that provide scalability, speed and flexibility for business growth. However, Sherwood cautioned that your equipment may affect your results. “The bandwidth and distance you can achieve with a P2P link depend on the models of equipment being utilized,” Sherwood said.

What is bridging in Wi-Fi?

Like your home’s Wi-Fi router, a Wi-Fi bridge connects an access point to a network, giving internet access to a client device. Because a bridge doesn’t always require a direct line of sight, the device’s location may not matter as long as it’s within the signal range.

Wireless bridges also help you avoid the installation headaches associated with setting up a business Wi-Fi network. They allow specific devices to access the network remotely, even if they can’t connect to the internal wired infrastructure.

There are several types of wireless bridging, each with its own strengths and drawbacks. They include the following:

• Wi-Fi-to-Ethernet bridge: You can connect clients to an Ethernet network wirelessly, but it’s mainly meant for older devices without Wi-Fi. So, we don’t see this type of bridge too often anymore.
• Wi-Fi-to-Wi-Fi bridge: This bridge is one of the more common types of wireless connections. It increases the range of a wireless hotspot.
• Bluetooth-to-Wi-Fi bridge: This bridge allows Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones, to connect to a wireless network.
• PtP bridge: These bridges connect two networks or buildings using a dedicated wireless link and are commonly used for long-distance connections.
• PtMP bridge: This bridge is one central wireless point that connects to multiple remote points. It’s often used on large campuses or in rural areas.

The benefits of P2P wireless networks

A P2P wireless network can offer your business a reliable, high-speed, low-latency connection without crushing your budget. Conversely, installing a hardwired network can be prohibitively costly and a logistical headache.

The benefits of P2P wireless networks include the following:

• Connect multiple worksites. For a company with multiple business locations, a P2P wireless network can keep every site connected 24/7, providing a stable, secure signal. Sherwood emphasized their long-range capability. “Additional benefits include the ability to extend your network to areas where you can’t trench Ethernet or fiber,” Sherwood noted. “Consider a link at the top of a mountain beaming a signal down to one or more receiving antennas in a valley.”
• Save you money. P2P wireless networks eliminate the construction costs associated with creating a physical network, allowing you to redirect resources to more critical areas. “It’s much cheaper to set up a pair of P2P access points than it is to trench Ethernet or fiber from point A to point B,” Sherwood explained.
• Eliminate the need for a virtual private network (VPN). As a bonus, a P2P wireless network setup can create a secure local area network (LAN) from the start. With this secure remote access, including built-in encryption, you won’t need VPN software for added protection.
• Provide sufficient transfer speeds. Bandwidth is shared across an entire network. But, most modern, high-speed P2P networks provide plenty of transfer speed to deliver a solid connection for each work site.
• Easy to set up and maintain. One of the greatest advantages of a P2P wireless network is its simplicity. Because the infrastructure requires minimal setup, it’s easy to maintain. This feature ensures you always have access to the latest features and updates for a stable and secure network.

How to set up a P2P wireless connection

If you’ve decided to set up a P2P wireless network for your business, follow these steps:

1. Establish feasibility. You’ll need a clear line of sight between the locations you want to connect. So, identify potential obstacles — such as hills, trees and buildings — that may interfere with signal quality. Most commercial P2P equipment performs best over a few miles, so ensure your required distances fall within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
2. Choose vendors and equipment. Sherwood recommended purchasing equipment from reputable vendors such as Ubiquiti, MikroTik, Cambium Networks or Mimosa. He also advised selecting equipment from suppliers with excellent documentation, frequent software updates and readily available customer support. Here’s some advice for this process:
   • Compare quotes: P2P wireless is a specialized industry, so compare multiple vendors before making a decision. “My best advice is to get multiple quotes,” Sherwood said. “I’ve personally seen quotes where a vendor was trying to charge a customer over $5,000 for a simple P2P link using equipment that cost less than $300.” Obtain at least three quotes to avoid overpaying.
   • Consider pre-configured setups: If you prefer a faster and simpler installation, some vendors offer pre-configured antennas that connect to each other out of the box. However, if you have network experience, you may prefer a custom setup — just be aware of the learning curve involved.
3. Install and align your antennas. Choose the best location on your buildings for a clear line of sight. Wind movement can affect performance, so consider mounting your antennas on sturdy poles, masts or roof brackets to ensure stability.
4. Configure your network settings. Log in at each antenna or P2P unit to set up the IP addresses, channel settings and security configurations. Most vendors require you to use a web interface for configuration, so bring a laptop or tablet with you. Before finalizing the setup, ensure you can see each endpoint in the network.
5. Test and launch. Run speed tests and monitor the signal quality at each location. If you notice signal deterioration or dropouts during testing, adjust each antenna’s position, height or mounting to improve stability.
6. Maintain the network. Once your network is up and running, keep the antenna firmware and software updated with security patches and performance fixes. Periodically check that the antennas are secure on their moorings. If the network suddenly becomes unreliable, align your antennas to fix the issue.

Cybersecurity and P2P

Cybersecurity risk management is critical when setting up a P2P network. While modern P2P systems have built-in cybersecurity protocols, organizations must remain vigilant. Hackers may attempt to intercept signals or breach the network through physical hardware via tactics like Internet of Things infiltration attacks.

Best practices for P2P cybersecurity include the following:

• Test your system regularly. Seth Geftic, vice president of product marketing at cybersecurity agency Huntress, recommended regular testing. “P2P offers companies a range of benefits, but it does come with more complex cybersecurity concerns,” Geftic cautioned. “While modern equipment has made the risk of signal interception less likely, the threat of man-in-the-middle attacks remains. To get past this, the best bet will be to conduct regular penetration testing to identify potential vulnerabilities that could emerge.”
• Prioritize physical security. Geftic emphasized the importance of securing physical access to P2P infrastructure. “Organizations thinking about installing P2P infrastructure really shouldn’t overlook the dangers of unauthorized access,” Geftic warned. “For example, installing tamper-proof enclosures and actively monitoring equipment with cameras and sensors will help secure data transmission.”
• Use strong passwords. Sherwood stressed the importance of password security to protect P2P links. “Just as you would create a wireless network with a password for your home devices, you need to create an SSID and password for a P2P link,” Sherwood explained. “However, client devices are not able to join the link — only antennas of the same brand/manufacturer are typically able to connect, so that makes P2P wireless safer.”
• Lock access points. Sherwood recommended restricting access to approved hardware. “This means you’re telling each side that they’re only able to connect to the hardware identifier (MAC address) of the remote side.”