PlantUML DiagramSplit-MAC with CAPWAP
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Autonomous APs are for hobbyists and small offices. Controller-based APs are the enterprise default. That's the shape of the industry — and if you're studying for the CCNA, the controller model is where the exam focuses. But autonomous APs still have a place, and knowing when saves you a project cost.
| Model | AP config lives | Management | Suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autonomous | On the AP itself | Per-AP CLI or GUI | 1–5 APs, home, small office |
| Controller-based (on-prem WLC) | On a central WLC | WLC dashboard | Enterprises, campuses, healthcare |
| Cloud-managed | In the cloud (Meraki, Mist, Aruba Central) | Web dashboard | Multi-site, MSPs, distributed |
In the controller-based model, APs are 'lightweight' — they have minimal local config and rely on the WLC for policy, SSIDs, security, and roaming logic. The WLC is where everything is configured. This is the model the CCNA tests.
CAPWAP (Control And Provisioning of Wireless Access Points) is the protocol that connects lightweight APs to the WLC. It runs over UDP — 5246 for control, 5247 for data. The control channel carries management; the data channel carries client traffic tunneled to the WLC.
Split-MAC means some functions live on the AP (things that must happen in real time — beacons, ACKs, encryption) and others live on the WLC (policy, authentication, roaming decisions). This split is why lightweight APs can be cheap and simple — the WLC does the thinking.
CAPWAP runs over IPv4 or IPv6 and can be secured with DTLS. In local mode, client traffic is tunneled to the WLC and then to the wired network — meaning client traffic traverses the WLC even if the client and destination are on the same VLAN. In FlexConnect mode, APs can bridge traffic locally, keeping it off the WLC for branch offices.
If you have access to a WLC lab, look at the CAPWAP tunnel counters (`show capwap client`). You'll see the tunnel states and how much traffic is passing through the WLC vs. bridged locally at the AP (in FlexConnect mode).
Finish the lesson once you have worked through the material. This awards ★ 35 XP.