In this section, we will explore how wireless LANs (WLANs) are designed, deployed, and managed in enterprise environments. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of different AP architectures, client roaming behavior, and wireless controller placement strategies. This knowledge is essential for building scalable, reliable Wi-Fi networks.
Here’s what we will cover in this section:
1. Understanding Wireless LANs
In this lesson, we introduce the core concepts of WLANs. You’ll learn how wireless LANs differ from wired networks, the key components of a WLAN (including access points, controllers, and client devices), and how wireless communication enables mobility and flexibility in modern networks.
2. Autonomous AP Architecture
This lesson covers autonomous (standalone) APs, which manage all wireless functions locally. You’ll learn how these APs operate, their typical use cases, and their benefits and limitations compared to controller-based solutions.
3. Lightweight AP Architecture
In this lesson, we focus on lightweight APs, which offload most of their management and configuration tasks to a central wireless controller. You’ll discover how this architecture simplifies large-scale Wi-Fi deployments and supports features like dynamic channel assignment, load balancing, and centralized security policies.
4. Understanding Client Roaming
Client roaming is critical for maintaining seamless wireless connectivity as users move between different APs. This lesson explains how Wi-Fi devices roam, the role of fast-roaming protocols like 802.11r, and how roaming decisions impact network performance and user experience.
5. Wireless Controller Placement
Where you place a wireless controller can significantly affect network performance and scalability. In this lesson, you’ll learn about different deployment models, such as centralized, distributed, and cloud-based controller placement. We’ll also discuss how to balance factors like latency, redundancy, and control plane efficiency.
6. Test #2.1 – WiFi Infrastructure
At the end of every section, we test your progress with a test. It will assess your understanding of WLAN concepts, AP architectures, client roaming, and wireless controller placement. By completing the test, you’ll reinforce what you’ve learned and identify any areas that may need further review.
By completing this section, you will:
- Understand the structure and components of wireless LANs.
- Compare autonomous and lightweight AP architectures.
- Learn how client roaming works and its impact on Wi-Fi performance.
- Gain insights into wireless controller placement strategies.
- Evaluate your knowledge with a test on Wi-Fi infrastructure.