Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) v1.2ArchitectureMedium

A network engineer is deploying a new Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) network for a high-density office building. The design requires centralized control, seamless roaming for users across floors, and efficient spectrum management. Which WLAN deployment model best fits these requirements?

  1. AAutonomous Access Point deployment
  2. BClient-based roaming deployment
  3. CMesh Access Point deployment
  4. DController-based Access Point deployment
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Controller-based Access Point deployment

A controller-based AP deployment provides centralized control, enables seamless roaming through coordinated APs, and offers advanced features like RF management and spectrum analysis, which are crucial for high-density Wi-Fi 6 environments.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Autonomous APs operate independently, lacking centralized control, coordinated roaming, and efficient spectrum management required for a high-density environment.
  • B. Client-based roaming relies solely on the client device to decide when and where to roam, which is inefficient and leads to poor performance in high-density, multi-AP environments without controller coordination.
  • C. Mesh AP deployments are primarily designed for extending coverage where cabling is difficult, not for high-density office environments requiring centralized control and seamless client roaming.

Controller-based WLAN

A controller-based WLAN (also known as lightweight AP deployment) uses a centralized Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) to manage and coordinate multiple lightweight access points (APs).

  • Centralized management and configuration.
  • Seamless roaming and coordinated RF management.
  • Scalable for large and high-density environments.

Memory trick: Controller: Central Command Coordinates Connectivity.

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