Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) v1.2InfrastructureMedium
A network architect is designing a wireless network for a large campus. The design requires central management of access points, seamless client roaming across different APs and controllers, and robust security features like 802.1X. Which wireless architecture would best meet these requirements?
- AController-based AP architecture
- BMesh AP architecture
- CCloud-managed AP architecture
- DAutonomous AP architecture
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Controller-based AP architecture
Controller-based AP architectures are specifically designed for large-scale deployments, offering central management of numerous APs, seamless roaming through inter-controller communication and centralized authentication, and robust security features like 802.1X integration. This perfectly matches the campus network requirements.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Mesh AP architectures are primarily for extending wireless coverage without wired backhauls, not for central management or seamless roaming in a wired campus context.
- C. Cloud-managed APs offer central management but might not always provide the same level of granular control, local traffic forwarding, or complex integration capabilities as on-premise controllers for very large, specific campus needs.
- D. Autonomous APs are managed individually and do not offer central management or seamless roaming across multiple APs.
Controller-Based Wireless Architecture
A wireless network design where access points are centrally managed by one or more wireless LAN controllers (WLCs).
- Offers centralized configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
- Facilitates seamless roaming for clients across multiple APs.
- Provides advanced security features and centralized policy enforcement.
Memory trick: Wireless Architectures: Central Control for Campus Roaming.