Cisco WIRELESS ACCESS POINT WAP4410N - Manual (Page 56)

Troubleshooting
WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point with Power Over Internet Administration Guide 56
A
The Cisco WAP4410N Access Point supports the following IPv6
Applications:
- WEB/SSL
- SNTP
- PING6
- TRACE Route
Q. What is roaming?
Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate
continuously while moving freely throughout an area greater than that
covered by a single access point. Before using the roaming function, the
workstation must make sure that it is set to the same channel number as the
access point of the dedicated coverage area.
To achieve true seamless connectivity, the wireless LAN must incorporate a
number of different functions. Each node and access point, for example,
must always acknowledge receipt of each message. Each node must
maintain contact with the wireless network even when not actually
transmitting data.
Achieving these functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF
networking technology that links access points and nodes. In such a
system, the user’s end node undertakes a search for the best possible
access to the system. First, it evaluates such factors as signal strength and
quality, as well as the message load currently being carried by each access
point and the distance of each access point to the wired backbone. Based
on that information, the node next selects the right access point and
registers its address.
Communications between end node and host computer can then be
transmitted up and down the backbone.
As the user moves on, the end node’s RF transmitter regularly checks the
system to determine whether it is in touch with the original access point or
whether it should seek a new one. When a node no longer receives
acknowledgment from its original access point, it undertakes a new search.
Upon finding a new access point, it then re-registers, and the
communication process continues.