SonicWALL SonicWave 681 User manual
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
3 Optionally select the Hide SSID in Beacon checkbox.
The SSID refers to the access point name that appears in clients’ lists of available
wireless connections. Hiding the SSID provides additional security because it requires
the user to know the access point name before connecting.
4 Click 2.4GHz Radio Advanced and repeat Step 3.
5 When finished configuring all options, click OK.
For information about configuring the other options and screens in the Add/Edit
SonicWave Profile dialog, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
Configuring the Network Interface
Each SonicWave or group of SonicWaves must be connected to a physical network
interface that is configured in a wireless zone. SonicOS provides a standard
wireless zone (WLAN) that can be applied to any available interface.
To configure the network interface in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to the NETWORK | System > Interfaces page and click the Edit this interface
icon by hovering over the interface to which your SonicWave connects.
2 Select WLAN or another (custom) wireless zone from the Zone drop-down menu. The
default wireless zone is WLAN.
3 Select Static IP Mode for the Mode/IP Assignment.
4 In the IP Address field, type in any private IP address that does not interfere with the IP
address range of any other interfaces on the appliance. Wireless clients are assigned an
IP address in this subnet.
5 Enter a Subnet Mask. The default is 255.255.255.0.
6 Select a non-zero number for SonicPoint/SonicWave Limit. If 0is selected, no access
points can be discovered on this interface.
7 Use the default settings or select appropriate settings for the other fields and click OK.
Configuring the WLAN Zone
To configure the WLAN zone in SonicOS:
1 Navigate to OBJECT | Match Objects > Zones page, click the Edit icon in the WLAN row.
2 On the General screen, select the Allow Interface Trust option to automate the
creation of Access Rules to allow traffic to flow between the interfaces within the zone,
regardless of the interfaces to which the zone is applied.
For example, if the WLAN zone has both the X2 and X3 interfaces assigned to it,
selecting Allow Interface Trust creates the necessary access rules to allow hosts on
these interfaces to communicate with each other.
3 Select the checkboxes to enable security services on this zone. Minimally, you would
select Enable Gateway Anti-Virus Service, Enable IPS, and Enable Anti-Spyware
Service. If your wireless clients are all running SonicWall Client Anti-Virus, select Enable
Client AV Enforcement Service.
4 In the Guest Services screen, optionally configure guest Internet access. For
information about Guest Services, see the SonicOS Administration documentation.
5 In the Wireless screen under SonicPoint/SonicWave Settings, select the desired
provisioning profile from the SonicWave Provisioning Profile drop-down menu. If you
added a new profile in Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile, select it here.
6 Select Only allow traffic generated by a SonicPoint/SonicWave to allow only traffic
from SonicWall wireless access points to enter the WLAN zone interfaces, providing
maximum security.
7 When finished, click Save.
You are now ready to connect your SonicWave 681 to your SonicWall network
security appliance as described in the following sections.
9 Installing the SonicWave 681
This section describes how to connect the PoE and network cables and then
attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket.
The SonicWave 681 connects to a WLAN zone interface on your SonicWall
network security appliance. The access point is powered through Power over
Ethernet (PoE), with the PoE device positioned between the SonicWave 681 and
the firewall. SonicWall recommends using CAT5e Ethernet cables to connect the
devices.
To connect the SonicWave 681 to PoE and the network:
1 Using an Ethernet cable, connect the Data in port on the PoE Injector to an existing
WLAN zone interface on the firewall or to an unused interface to be configured later in
SonicOS.
2 Using a second Ethernet cable, connect the Data and Power Out port on the PoE
injector to the LAN/POE port on your SonicWave 681.
Refer to your PoE Installation Guide for more information.
3 Plug the power cord of the PoE Injector into an appropriate power outlet.
4 Wait up to two minutes for the LAN LED on the SonicWave 681 to illuminate. This
indicates an active connection.
To attach the SonicWave 681 to the mounting bracket:
1 Line up the two mounting tab insert points on the back of the SonicWave 681 with the
mounting tabs on the mounting bracket.
CAUTION: An 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or PoE enabled switch is
required to provide power to each SonicWave 681.
To maintain power to the SonicWave 681, the maximum length of CAT5e cable
from the PoE device to the SonicWave 681 is 100 meters (333 feet).
2 Insert the mounting tabs into the SonicWave 681 and slide the access point down until
the locking tab on the bracket clicks into place on the SonicWave.
Connecting the SonicWave 681
10 Verifying SonicWave Operation
To verify that the SonicWave is provisioned and operational:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Objects table, the Status column displays the SonicWave 681
status. It might display Initializing, Updating Firmware, Writing Firmware, and
Rebooting. After rebooting, the Status should display Operational.
If the Status displays Operational (Not Licensed) and does not change to Operational
soon, contact SonicWall Support for assistance with licensing the SonicWave.
4 Connect a client device to the SonicWave by selecting the appropriate access point
name (SSID).
5 Ensure that the client device is not connected to any other network connections (wired
LAN, 3G/4G WWAN).
6 In a browser, enter “https://www.SonicWall.com/” in the address bar and press Enter.
The SonicWall website should display. If you are unable to browse to a website, refer to
Troubleshooting Tips.
Local Network (LAN)
X1 WAN
X0 LAN
Internet
X2 WLAN
PoE Injector
or PoE Switch
Wireless Clients
LAN/POE Port
11 Troubleshooting Tips
When the SonicWave 681 is connected to a SonicWall network security appliance,
the two units perform an encrypted exchange, and an entry for the SonicWave
681 is automatically created in the SonicPoint/SonicWave Objects table. Navigate
to the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access Points > Settings page in SonicOS.
If the entry does not appear in the table within five minutes of connecting the
SonicWave 681:
•Make sure the SonicWave 681 is connected to an interface that is configured as part of
a wireless zone. Either the default WLAN zone or a custom zone with type set to
“wireless” is required.
•Ensure that the SonicWave 681 is properly connected with an Ethernet cable to an
802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE device.
•If an 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector is being used, verify that the SonicWave 681
is connected to the PoE port labeled Data & Power Out.
•If the SonicWave 681 has an entry in the table, but reboots frequently or seems non-
functional:
•Verify that your PoE switch/injector is 802.3bt type 3 compliant and rated to deliver
sufficient power to each PoE port. 802.3af compliant PoE devices do not provide
sufficient power to properly run current generation 802.11 devices.
•Click Synchronize Access Points on the DEVICE | External Controllers > Access
Points > Settings page to force SonicOS to download a new SonicWave firmware
image from the SonicWall back-end server.
If the SonicWave becomes unresponsive or seems erratic, you can use the Reset
button to reset the SonicWave to factory default settings or put it into SafeMode.
Use a narrow, straight object, like a straightened paper clip to press the Reset
button.
•To reboot the SonicWave with factory default settings, press Reset for three seconds
until three LEDs begin to flash slowly. If the SonicWave is connected to your firewall, it
reboots again after the provisioning profile settings are applied.
•To reboot the SonicWave into SafeMode, press Reset for eight seconds until three LEDs
begin flashing at a medium rate.
See the LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations and LED Pattern in SafeMode
tables for more information.
TIP: SafeMode allows you to log into the SonicWave directly at 192.168.1.20
(default: admin/password) to manually update the firmware in rare situations
when other troubleshooting fails. Contact SonicWall Support for assistance.
12 SonicWave 681 LED Activity
The SonicWave 681 LEDs provide essential status information about the access
point.
Power LED
LED Color Description
Off No power
Blue Power is on
Security LED
LED Color Description
Green All security services licensed
Blinking Yellow Security services license expired.
Security services monitored by this LED:
Gateway Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention, Anti-
Spyware
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) LED
LED Color Description
Green On: Bluetooth has paired successfully.
Blinking: Bluetooth is ready for pairing.
Off Bluetooth is not paired.
LAN LED
LED Color Description
Off No link
Solid Yellow Link established at 1 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps, or 5Gbps
Blinking Yellow Active traffic at 1 Gbps
Solid Green Link established at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
Blinking Green Active traffic at 100 Mbps or 10 Mbps
5 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 5 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 5 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 5 GHz radio
2.4 GHz Radio LED
LED Color Description
Off 2.4 GHz radio is off
Solid Green 2.4 GHz radio is on
Blinking Green Active traffic on 2.4 GHz radio
LED Pattern During Firmware or SafeMode Bootup
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Heartbeat The three LEDs blink simultaneously in a
heartbeat pattern while booting is in
progress:
On - On - Off
5 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Heartbeat
LED Pattern for Reset Button Hold Durations
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Blinking Green The three LEDs blink simultaneously at a slow
or medium rate:
•Slow blink – Press Reset button 3 sec
•Med blink – Press Reset button 8 sec
5 GHz Radio Blinking Green
2.4 GHz Radio Blinking Green
LED Pattern in SafeMode
LEDs LED Color Description
LAN Green - Flow The three LEDs turn on serially (one by one)
and then turn off serially in a flow pattern
while the SonicWave 681 is in SafeMode.
5 GHz Radio Green - Flow
2.4 GHz Radio Green - Flow
NOTE: The LEDs are disabled by default. You can enable them in the SonicWave
provisioning profile or individual SonicWave entry in SonicOS on the firewall.
1 Introduction
This SonicWall®SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide provides instructions for basic
installation and configuration of SonicWall SonicWave 681 wireless access points.
The SonicWall SonicWave 681 is a ceiling-mountable wireless access point suitable
for indoor single-unit or multi-unit deployments. It is plenum rated for installation
within an enclosed space such as an attic. It can also be mounted on a wall or
deployed on a shelf, table, or desktop. Power over Ethernet (PoE) should be
provided to power the SonicWave 681.
2 SonicWave 681 Hardware Overview
SonicWave 681
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components
Component Description
2.4GHz and 5GHz radios Dual radios provide:
•802.11b/g/n/ac
•DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection)
SonicWave 681 complies with FCC rules to detect and
avoid interfering with radar signals in DFS bands.
•2x2 11n + 2x2 11ac wave 2 MU-MIMO
1GbE LAN port 1 Ethernet 10/100/1000 LAN port for wired connection to
a SonicWall network security appliance
USB port 1 USB 2.0 port
Scanning radio Dedicated third scanning radio
Antennas 5 internal (2.4Ghz x 2 / 5Ghz x 2 / Scan Radio x 1)
Power source 802.3bt type 3 PoE (standard, PoE device sold separately)
Optional DC 12V power adapter, sold separately
3 SonicWave 681 Ports
The back of the SonicWave 681 provides a LAN/POE port where the PoE Ethernet
cable connects the access point with the PoE injector or PoE-enabled switch,
which connects to your SonicWall network security appliance.
A 12V power connection is also provided on the back of the unit, where you can
plug in a 12V adapter (sold separately) to power the device.
SonicWave 681 Back
When the access point is installed, the back panel is attached to the ceiling or to a
wall or other flat surface.
Chassis Rectangle 119mm x 214mm x 34mm
Plenum rated
Kensington security slot For use with a Kensington locking cable to prevent theft
Operating temperature 0° to 40°C
SonicWave 681 Hardware Components (Continued)
Component Description
LAN/POE Port
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Insert Point
Mounting Tab
Lock Point
12V Adapter Port
Reset Button
Console Port
Lock
USB 2.0 Port
The side panel of the SonicWave 681 has the LED indicators and the USB port.
SonicWave 681 LEDs
You can insert a 3G/4G USB modem into the USB port to create a mobile wireless
(MiFi) hotspot. See the SonicOS Administration documentation for information
about the MiFi Extender feature. You can also use the USB port with a USB
security clamp.
For information about the LEDs, see the SonicWave 681 LED Activity section.
4 Checking Package Contents
Before you begin the setup process, verify that your package contains the
following items:
•SonicWave 681 appliance
•Mounting plate, screws and anchors
•CAT5e cable
•SonicWall SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
•Safety, Regulatory and Legal Information document
Package Contents
If any items are missing from the package, contact SonicWall Technical Support at:
https://www.SonicWall.com/support/contact-support.
NOTE: The PoE device for powering the SonicWave 681 is sold separately and is
not included in the package.
5 Deployment Requirements
SonicOS Firmware
SonicWall SonicWave 681 access points are centrally managed by SonicWall
network security appliances running the following versions of SonicOS:
•SonicOS 7.1.x or higher
Power Source
Use a 802.3bt type 3 compliant PoE injector or a PoE enabled switch to provide
power to each SonicWave 681.
Internet Connectivity
An active Internet connection is required for your SonicWall network security
appliance to download the latest SonicWave 681 firmware.
Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity
The SonicWave 681 requires a 5 Gigabit connection to the SonicWall network
security appliance to take full advantage of the SonicWave 681 data throughput
capability.
6 Deployment Considerations
Physical placement of the SonicWave 681 wireless access point has a measurable
effect on who can and cannot access your wireless signal. If too many users are
serviced by a single access point, maximum transfer rates are reached and that
access point may become a bottleneck for the whole system.
A site survey can help find the optimum wireless access point placement, but you
can find usable locations without it.
RF barriers can be circumvented by deploying multiple access points. Determining
how to circumvent RF barriers can be a challenging part of the placement process,
but RF barriers can also be used beneficially in an attempt to block signals where
you do not want coverage. The 5 GHz frequency is more sensitive to RF barriers. A
wall that allows a 2.4 GHz wireless network to operate can block a 5 GHz one.
Common RF Barrier Types
Barrier Type RF Signal Blocking
Glass, wood, drywall, cube partitions Low
Floors and outer walls, aquariums (brick/marble/granite/water) Medium
Concrete, security glass, wire mesh, stacked books/paper High
Metal partitions, desks, reinforced concrete Very High
Access points should be kept clear of Radio Frequency (RF) interference sources.
RF interference from home, office, and medical equipment is a common challenge
in wireless deployments.
When considering RF interference sources, remember that most cell/wireless
phones and Bluetooth devices only utilize the 2.4 GHz frequency. As such, they
should not cause significant interference with wireless networks operating in the
5 GHz frequency.
Different frequency bands provide varying signal strength and quality over
different distance ranges. Signals in the 2.4 GHz range tend to pass through
physical barriers better and carry farther than those in the 5 GHz range, but they
do not provide as high a data rate. Signals in the 5 GHz range provide faster data
rates for better throughput, but the signal attenuates faster and is best suited for
open spaces.
To allow multiple separate wireless networks in a shared space, the RF medium is
divided into channels. The number of channels is regulated and varies by country.
For devices using 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), there are up to 23 discrete channels.
For devices using the 2.4 GHz range (802.11b/g/n), the wireless space is limited to
a maximum of 13 overlapping channels. As a result of these overlapping channels,
2.4 GHz technology provides only a total of three discrete channels.
Common Sources of RF Interference
Interference Source Possible Range Bands Affected
2.4 GHz phones 100 feet 2.4 GHz (802.11 b/g/n)
Bluetooth devices 30 feet 2.4 GHz (802.15)
Microwave oven 10 - 20 feet 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
Scientific and medical
equipment
Short distance, varies 2.4 and 5 GHz, depending
on shielding
SonicWave 681 Channel Widths, Max Data Rates, Range
802.11 (x) Frequency /
MIMO Channel Width Max Data
Rate Range (Radius)
802.11a 5 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 90ft/25m
802.11b 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 11 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11g 2.4 GHz 20 MHz 54 Mbps 120ft/35m
802.11n 2.4 or 5 GHz
MIMO
20 or 40 MHz 300 Mbps 300ft/90m
802.11ac 5 GHz
MU-MIMO
20 / 40 / 80 MHz 866 Mbps 120ft/35m
7 Installing the Mounting Bracket
The SonicWave 681 comes with a mounting bracket so it can be mounted on the
ceiling or other flat surface. This section describes how to attach the mounting
bracket to the ceiling or an indoor wall.
The mounting bracket provides two pairs of T-bar locking tabs that support two
ceiling T-bar widths: 15/16 inch and 9/16 inch.
Mounting Bracket Top
Mounting Bracket Bottom
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling using T-bar clips:
1 Press the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling tile T-bar so that the
T-bar locking tabs on the mounting bracket are depressed.
2 Rotate the mounting bracket so the ceiling T-bar slides into the T-bar clips on the
mounting bracket and the T-bar locking tabs click into place.
To attach the mounting bracket to the ceiling or to a wall using screws:
1 Place the top side of the mounting bracket against the ceiling or wall and mark the
locations for the two screw insertion points.
2 Drill starter holes at the marked locations. For a wood wall, use a drill bit that fits the
provided screws. For drywall, use a drill bit that fits the anchors.
3 For drywall, screw in the anchors.
4 Place the mounting bracket against the wall with the holes lined up on the marks or
anchors.
5 Using the provided screws and a screwdriver, securely attach the mounting bracket to
the ceiling or wall.
8 Configuring the Firewall for Wireless Access
This section provides instructions for configuring SonicOS on your SonicWall
network security appliance to connect your SonicWave 681 to the WLAN zone and
manage it as a Layer 2 device. This includes:
•Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile for radio frequency, mode,
authentication type
•Configuring the Network Interface to which the SonicWave 681 connects
•Configuring the WLAN Zone for trust, security, and SonicWave provisioning profile
Configuring the SonicWave Provisioning Profile
SonicWave provisioning profiles include all of the settings that can be configured
on a SonicWave 681 access point. The profile is then selected when you configure
the wireless zone (WLAN by default). When your SonicWave 681 connects to that
zone, it is automatically provisioned with the profile settings.
To configure the SonicWave provisioning profile:
1 Log into your SonicWall firewall as an administrator (default: admin / password).
2 Navigate to the DEVICE | External Controllers | Access Points > Settings page.
3 In the Access Point Provisioning Profiles section, do one of the following:
•To modify the default SonicWave profile, click the Edit Profile icon after hovering in
the SonicWave row.
•To create a new profile, select SonicWave Profile from the Add New Profile drop-
down menu.
The Add/Edit SonicWave Profile dialog displays.
General screen settings:
1 Select Enable. This is selected by default.
2 To turn on the LEDs for SonicWaves using this provisioning profile, select Enable LED.
The LEDs are turned off by default.
3 If adding a new profile, type a simple, descriptive name into the Name Prefix field to
assist in identifying the SonicWave in this zone. This is the name of the provisioning
profile. Each provisioned SonicWave is named with this prefix followed by a unique
number. Optionally change the Name Prefix if editing the default SonicWave profile.
4 Verify the Country Code for the area of operation.
5 Accept the defaults or configure the remaining options as necessary.
Radio Basic Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Basic.
2 Select Enable Radio. This is selected by default.
3 Select a MODE or use the default.
4 Type a short, descriptive name into the SSID field. This is the access point name that
appears in clients’ lists of available wireless connections.
5 Under Wireless Security, select the Authentication Type for your wireless network.
SonicWall recommends using WPA2 as the authentication type if all client devices
support it.
PSK uses a passphrase for authentication, EAP uses an Enterprise RADIUS server.
6 Select the Cipher Type. When using WPA and WPA2, SonicWall recommends AES for
maximum security if all client devices support it.
7 Fill in the fields specific to the authentication type that you selected. The remaining
fields change depending on the selected authentication type.
8 Click 2.4GHz Radio Basic and repeat Step 2 through Step 7.
Radio Advanced Settings:
1 Click 5GHz Radio Advanced.
2 For most advanced options, the default settings give optimum performance.
SonicWall®SonicWave 681
Quick Start Guide
Regulatory Model Number:
APL66-106
Copyright © 2022 SonicWall Inc. All rights reserved.
SonicWall is a trademark or registered trademark of SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates in
the U.S.A. and/or other countries. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are
property of their respective owners.
The information in this document is provided in connection with SonicWall Inc. and/or its
affiliates' products. No license, express or implied, by estoppel or otherwise, to any
intellectual property right is granted by this document or in connection with the sale of
SonicWall products. EXCEPT AS SET FORTH IN THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS AS SPECIFIED
IN THE LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR THIS PRODUCT, SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES
ASSUME NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER AND DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR
STATUTORY WARRANTY RELATING TO ITS PRODUCTS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
OR NON- INFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES BE
LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS,
BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS DOCUMENT, EVEN IF SONICWALL AND/OR ITS AFFILIATES HAVE
BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. SonicWall and/or its affiliates
make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of
the contents of this document and reserves the right to make changes to specifications
and product descriptions at any time without notice. SonicWall Inc. and/or its affiliates do
not make any commitment to update the information contained in this document.
For more information, visit https://www.SonicWall.com/legal/.
To access the Support Portal, go to https://www.SonicWall.com/support.
SonicWave 681 Quick Start Guide
Updated - February 2022
232-005725-50 Rev A
Legend
WARNING: A WARNING icon indicates a potential for property damage,
personal injury, or death.
CAUTION: A CAUTION icon indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of
data if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT, NOTE, TIP, MOBILE, or VIDEO: An information icon indicates
supporting information.
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