Regulatory Domain

The IEEE 802.11/b/g/n Wi-Fi networks operate in the 2.4 GHz spectrum and IEEE 802.11a/n operate in the 5.0 GHz spectrum. These spectrums are divided into channels. The 2.4 GHz spectrum is divided into 14 overlapping, staggered 20 MHz wireless carrier channels. These channels are spaced 5 MHz apart. The 5 GHz spectrum is divided into more channels. The channels that can be used in a particular country differ based on the regulations of that country.

The initial Wi-Fi setup requires you to specify the country code for the country in which the Aruba Instant operates. This configuration sets the regulatory domain for the radio frequencies that the IAPs use. Within the regulated transmission spectrum, a high-throughput 802.11a, 802.11b/g, or 802.11n radio setting can be configured. The available 20 MHz and 40 MHz channels are dependent on the specified country code.

You cannot change the country code for the IAPs designated for US and Japan and Israel. Improper country code assignment can disrupt wireless transmissions. Most countries impose penalties and sanctions on operators of wireless networks with devices set to improper country codes. Country Codes List shows the list of country codes.

Figure 219 - Specifying a Country Code