CCNA 200-301 v1.1 reference — Network Access
Wireless architectures and AP modes
Autonomous, lightweight (CAPWAP) and cloud-based AP architectures, split-MAC operation, and AP modes such as local, monitor and FlexConnect.
Objective 2.6v1.1 exam target
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Split-MAC responsibilities
| Function | Lightweight AP | WLC |
|---|---|---|
| 802.11 MAC: beacons, probes, acknowledgements | ✓ (real-time, on the AP) | |
| Association and authentication state | Handled at AP via WLC policy | ✓ (central control) |
| Config: SSID, channels, power, security | Pushed down from WLC | ✓ (authored centrally) |
| Client traffic path (local mode) | Encapsulated in CAPWAP to the WLC | Decapsulated onto the wired network |
Common AP modes
| Mode | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Local | Serves clients on its channels; client traffic tunnels to the WLC (default) |
| FlexConnect | Serves clients but can switch traffic locally — survives WLC outage for that site |
| Monitor | Doesn't serve clients — scans channels for RF conditions and rogue APs |
| Sniffer | Captures wireless traffic for analysis |
| Bridge/mesh | Wireless backhaul between APs where wiring isn't possible |
CAPWAP carries both the control channel (DTLS-encrypted config and management, UDP 5246) and the data channel (client frames, UDP 5247) between each AP and its WLC. The AP discovers the WLC via DHCP option 43, DNS or broadcast, then joins and receives its entire configuration.
Model comparison
- Autonomous: full config on each AP, no roaming coordination, fine for a single AP.
- Lightweight + WLC: central policy, tunneled or local switching, enterprise scale.
- Cloud-managed: cloud dashboard replaces the WLC control plane; data plane typically stays local at the AP.
Related resources
Sources
- Cisco CCNA 200-301 v1.1 Exam Topics (official PDF) — reviewed 2026-11-02
- RFC 5415 — Control And Provisioning of Wireless Access Points (CAPWAP) Protocol Specification — reviewed 2026-11-02
- Wi-Fi Alliance — Security — reviewed 2026-11-02
Targets CCNA 200-301 v1.1 objectives. Supplemental blocks are labeled beyond exam scope.