Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) NetworkingNetwork AccessHard
A network administrator is implementing a new wireless network in a multi-story building. The administrator wants to ensure that clients can seamlessly roam between access points (APs) without experiencing significant service interruption. Which of the following 802.11 standards or concepts is most relevant for achieving fast and seamless roaming?
- A802.11b
- B802.11a
- C802.11r
- D802.11g
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 802.11r
802.11r, also known as Fast BSS Transition, is a standard specifically designed to enable faster roaming by allowing clients to quickly re-authenticate with a new AP without going through the full authentication process. This significantly reduces the time it takes for a client to transition between APs, leading to seamless roaming.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 802.11b is an older standard for 2.4 GHz, providing slower speeds and no roaming enhancements.
- B. 802.11a is an older standard for 5 GHz, providing higher speeds but not specifically for roaming improvements.
- D. 802.11g is an older standard for 2.4 GHz, offering speeds similar to 802.11a but no specific roaming features.
802.11r (Fast BSS Transition)
An IEEE 802.11 amendment designed to speed up the handoff process between access points in a wireless network, enabling seamless roaming.
- Minimizes re-authentication time for clients.
- Crucial for voice-over-Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) and real-time applications.
- Implemented on both APs and client devices.
Memory trick: Roaming 'R'equires 'R'apid 'R'econnection.