How to setup

[Chip]

hi. this is the setup i currently have for a hotel.

Cable Modem to MAIN Router to switches - the switches connect to a wired connection in each room so the MAINrouter assigns the Ip addresses
- the switches also connect to four wireless routers (one per floor where the cable connects in a switch method so if someone connects to wireless the MAINrouter assigns the IP address)

However, now the setup must be changed.

The new setup should be such that when user connect either wired or wireless, they should be brought to a page where they agree to a Terms of Service and click I agree. They only need to do this once. Nothing else is needed. Basically, this requires a captive portal.

Now, after reading through the PDF that si included with the trial, I saw that a router is needed. Why is this if FirstSpot assigns DHCP addresses?

Also, is this right for me or is this overkill? I only need users, once they are connected, to automatically be brought to a site with the hotel information on it and a terms of service and a i agree button. Once they click that, they cant surf normally.

[alan]

An extra router is not necessary (unless you are using FirstSpot Multiple Network Segments). Your new setup should be:

Client -> wireless router + switch -> FirstSpot -> your MAIN Router -> Cable Modem -> Internet
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~ Patronsoft Limited ~

[Chip]

That is exactly what I am confused about. Why is there still a need to keep my MAIN router? Once FirstSpot is added, what purpose will it serve? Why can't it be like this:

Client -> wireless router + switch -> FirstSpot -> Cable Modem -> Internet

[alan]

If your cable connection supports DHCP directly (instead of PPPoE), then you don't need your main router. Otherwise, you need your main router since FirstSpot cannot act as a PPPoE client.
_________________
~ Patronsoft Limited ~