Wireless Home Router

What is Wireless Access Points

In the LAN (Wired Network) each client connects to a switch. The switch is the center point for each client to gain access to the network. The wireless Access Points also connects to the switch. Wireless clients discover nearby APs using their wireless NIC. The wireless Access Points are advertising their SSID for the client. Clients select wireless Access Points and attempt to connect using authentication. After being authenticated, wireless users can access network resources. The wireless Access Points has two types: autonomous APs and controller-based APs.

Autonomous APs

Autonomous APs are useful in situations where only a couple of APs are required in the network. We can configure autonomous APs using the Cisco CLI or a GUI. We can control multiple APs using wireless domain services (WDS) and managed using Cisco Works Wireless LAN Solution Engine (WLSE). The home router is an example of an autonomous AP. In the case of increased wireless demands, more APs would be required. Each AP has its network and operates independently from other APs. The APs can be independently configured. The figure below illustrates the Autonomous APs.

Wireless Access Points

Controller-Based APs

It is server-dependent APs that not need any initial configuration. Controller-based APs are helpful where many APs are required in the network. When a new AP is added to the network, the controller automatically configures and manages the APs. The benefit of the controller is that it can be used to manage many APs. The figure below illustrates the controller-based APs.

Controller Based APs
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Asad Ijaz

NetworkUstad's lead networking architect with CCIE certification. Specializes in CCNA exam preparation and enterprise network design. Authored 2,800+ technical guides on Cisco systems, BGP routing, and network security protocols since 2018. Picture this: I'm not just someone who writes about tech; I'm a certified expert in the field. I proudly hold the titles of Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). So, when I talk about networking, I'm not just whistling in the dark; I know my stuff! My website is like a treasure trove of knowledge. You'll find a plethora of articles and tutorials covering a wide range of topics related to networking and cybersecurity. It's not just a website; it's a learning hub for anyone who's eager to dive into the world of bits, bytes, and secure connections. And here's a fun fact: I'm not a lone wolf in this journey. I'm a proud member and Editor of Team NetworkUstad. Together, we're on a mission to empower people with the knowledge they need to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. So, if you're ready to embark on a tech-savvy adventure, stick around with me, Asad Ijaz Khattak. We're going to unravel the mysteries of technology, one article at a time!"