2.2.3. Wireless Infrastructure

Access Point (AP): Bridges wireless clients to the wired network. An autonomous AP operates independently with local configuration. A lightweight AP requires a wireless controller—the AP handles radio functions while the controller handles management.

Wireless Controller: Centrally manages multiple lightweight APs. Handles roaming (clients moving between APs), channel assignment (avoiding interference), power levels, and security policies. Enables consistent configuration across hundreds of APs from a single interface.