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Wireless & Mobility · Intermediate

Split MAC Architecture

Division of 802.11 MAC functions between a lightweight AP (real-time) and a controller (non-real-time).

Definition

In split MAC, the AP handles beacons, probe responses, ACKs, retransmissions, and encryption, while the WLC handles association, authentication, roaming coordination, RRM, and policy. This design is the basis of CAPWAP. It enables centralized management with local real-time performance.

Exam tip

Beacons and ACKs are handled by the AP, not the controller.

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