L44
Wireless controllers: the limited wireless scope
Cram this first — memory hook
Autonomous = manages itself; lightweight = relies on a controller; controller = one management desk for many APs.
Exam trap
A Wireless Local Area Network Controller is not a general substitute for a router, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol server or firewall, although some products combine functions.
The slide facts
Page 33 distinguishes autonomous and lightweight access points, naming Lightweight Access Point Protocol and Control And Provisioning of Wireless Access Points . Page 35 explains centralized management alongside antenna content; only its controller portion is core here.
If you have time — extra
A Wireless Access Point () connects wireless clients to a network. An autonomous is managed substantially on its own; a lightweight depends on centralized control in a controller-based design. A Wireless Local Area Network Controller () can manage many APs' network names, security settings, channels and transmit power, and help coordinate roaming features. A Service Set Identifier () is the advertised wireless network name, not proof of trust. Lightweight Access Point Protocol () is an older controller/ protocol; Control And Provisioning of Wireless Access Points () is a standardized approach used in controller communication. Actual client-data forwarding may be local or tunneled depending on the architecture. Do not assume every packet always traverses the controller. APs still need power, connectivity and consistent policy.
Walkthrough
APs establish their management/control relationship, receive settings, serve clients under the configured policy, and coordinate as supported. Diagnose whether a fault affects one , controller connectivity or the wider service.