Specifications

CHAPTER 9
Wireless LANs in a Campus Network
Cisco Wireless Network Components
Cisco supports two types of wireless solutions: one using autonomous access points, and one using lightweight (or
“dumb”) access points in combination with WLAN controllers. The wired network infrastructure is the same for both
types: switches and routers.
Access points can receive their power from Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches, routers with PoE switch modules, or
midspan power injectors, thus alleviating the need for electrical outlets near them. APs require up to 15 W of power, so
plan your power budget accordingly.
Autonomous (Stand-alone) APs
Autonomous APs run Cisco IOS, are programmed individually, and act independently. They can be centrally managed
with the CiscoWorks Wireless LAN Solution Engine (WLSE), can use Cisco Secure Access Control Server (ACS) for
RADIUS and TACAS+ authentication, and Wireless Domain Services (WDS) for RF management. Redundancy consists
of multiple APs.
Network Design for Autonomous APs
When using stand-alone APs, the traffic flow is from client to AP to connected switch, and from there into the rest of the
network. Plan the SSIDs and VLANs that will be on each AP, keeping in mind any roaming that users might do.
Autonomous APs support Layer 2 roaming only, so SSIDs and VLAN must be statically configured on every AP in which
a user might roam. Make sure to include a management VLAN on the AP.
Ensure that the AP has a power source, either a PoE switch or a power injector. Configure the switch interface connected
to the AP as a trunk if the AP has multiple VLANs.
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CCNP SWITCH 642-813 Quick Reference by Denise Donohue