In a split-MAC deployment, which function is performed by the WLC besides resource reservation?

In a split-MAC deployment, which function is performed by the WLC besides resource reservation?

• A. Packet prioritization
• B. Authentication
• C. Encryption
• D. Quality of Service

Answer: (B)

In split-MAC, the control plane is centralized on the wireless LAN controller, so authentication is handled there. When a device tries to connect, the AP forwards the authentication exchange to the WLC (often via CAPWAP), and the WLC checks credentials with the authentication server (such as a RADIUS/802.1X setup) and applies the appropriate access policy. This gatekeeping ensures only authorized devices join the network and receive the correct level of access. Resource reservation is another function the WLC performs to ensure the requested session has the needed radio resources and QoS to proceed. The APs handle the data-plane tasks—forwarding frames, applying per-frame encryption for wireless transmission, and managing on-the-fly radio decisions—while the WLC makes the higher-level policy and authentication decisions.

In split-MAC, the control plane is centralized on the wireless LAN controller, so authentication is handled there. When a device tries to connect, the AP forwards the authentication exchange to the WLC (often via CAPWAP), and the WLC checks credentials with the authentication server (such as a RADIUS/802.1X setup) and applies the appropriate access policy. This gatekeeping ensures only authorized devices join the network and receive the correct level of access.

Resource reservation is another function the WLC performs to ensure the requested session has the needed radio resources and QoS to proceed. The APs handle the data-plane tasks—forwarding frames, applying per-frame encryption for wireless transmission, and managing on-the-fly radio decisions—while the WLC makes the higher-level policy and authentication decisions.