Cisco CCNA (200-301)Network FundamentalsMedium
A small business wants to deploy wireless access points that operate completely independently, each handling its own management, configuration, and RF settings without relying on a centralized controller. Which AP deployment mode fits this requirement?
- ALightweight mode
- BFlexConnect mode
- CAutonomous mode
- DMesh mode
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Autonomous mode
Autonomous APs run a full standalone operating system and are individually configured and managed, making them suitable for small deployments without a WLC. Lightweight APs require a WLC via CAPWAP for control functions, and FlexConnect/mesh are specific lightweight AP operating modes.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Lightweight APs depend on a wireless LAN controller for management and control plane functions.
- B. FlexConnect is a mode for lightweight APs at remote sites, still tied to a WLC.
- D. Mesh mode is used by lightweight APs to relay traffic wirelessly between APs, not a standalone deployment.
Autonomous vs Lightweight AP
Autonomous APs are standalone devices with full configuration and control locally, while lightweight APs rely on a WLC via CAPWAP for centralized management.
- Autonomous = no controller needed
- Lightweight = requires WLC and CAPWAP
- Autonomous better for very small networks
- Lightweight scales better for large deployments
Memory trick: Autonomous APs think for themselves; Lightweight APs need a brain (WLC).