Compare Cisco Wireless Architectures

When it comes to designing and deploying wireless networks, Cisco provides a variety of architectures that suit different needs and environments. In this article, we will explore three of the most common Cisco wireless architectures: Autonomous AP architecture, Split-MAC architecture (including CAPWAP), and Cloud-Based architecture.

Autonomous AP Architecture:

Autonomous Access Point (AP) architecture is the traditional approach of deploying wireless networks. In this architecture, each AP operates independently and performs all the functions needed to manage wireless clients, security, and Quality of Service (QoS). This type of architecture is best suited for small to medium-sized networks, where there are no centralized management requirements.

Each autonomous AP must be configured with a management IP address so that it can be remotely accessed using  SSH or a web interface. Each AP must be individually managed.

This is how typical autonomous AP's are connected.

Key Points:

Autonomous AP architecture operates independently.
Each AP performs all the functions needed to manage wireless clients, security, and QoS.
This architecture is best suited for small to medium-sized networks.

Split-MAC Architecture:

Split-MAC architecture is the most common architecture used in modern wireless networks. In this architecture, the AP is split into two logical components: the Control and Provisioning of Wireless Access Points (CAPWAP) protocol and the Access Point Protocol (APP). The CAPWAP protocol is responsible for the centralized management of the network, while the AP handles the data traffic.

We will discuss CAPWAP in detail in a different Article

Key Points:

Split-MAC architecture uses the CAPWAP protocol for centralized management and the APP for handling data traffic.
AP is responsible for handling client traffic.
This architecture is best suited for large-scale networks.

CAPWAP is responsible for the configuration, control, and monitoring of the APs.

Cloud-Based Architecture:

Cloud-Based architecture is the latest trend in wireless networking. In this architecture, the management and control of the network are moved to the cloud. The APs are controlled by a cloud-based controller, which provides a centralized view of the entire network. This architecture is best suited for environments where there are many remote sites, and it requires little to no on-site management.

Key Points:

Cloud-Based architecture moves the management and control of the network to the cloud.
APs are controlled by a cloud-based controller.
The controller provides a centralized view of the entire network.
This architecture is best suited for environments with many remote sites.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right wireless architecture depends on the needs of the organization. Autonomous AP architecture is suitable for small to medium-sized networks, while Split-MAC architecture is ideal for large-scale networks. Cloud-Based architecture is a new approach that is suitable for organizations with many remote sites. As the demand for wireless networks continues to grow, Cisco will continue to provide new and innovative architectures that suit different needs and environments.