Chapter 2. Install a Basic Cisco WLAN

One major concern when implementing an IEEE 802.11 wireless network is the ability to monitor and maintain the network. Managing a wireless network implies configuring SSID and related parameters (security, associated VLAN, and so on), managing roaming and credential transmission from one AP to another, and managing the channels and transmit power of APs to ensure optimal coverage. In small environments, the administrator can configure the APs individually for these elements. Larger networks require a central device where configuration is performed and pushed to the APs. For this reason, the Cisco Unified Wireless networking solution offers two types of APs:

• Standalone (autonomous) APs: Can be configured one by one and offer full functionality by themselves (they are well adapted for small deployments.