Controller-less WLANs

Question: What are the different L2 and L3 authentication options available in Instant AP?

A good understanding of authentication and encryption is essential to deploy a secure and functional WLAN. In general, a new authentication type required means that an additional SSID must be deployed. Remember that each SSID that is deployed appears as an individual AP, and it must beacon, which uses up valuable airtime. Therefor, to preserve radio resources, organizations should consider the types of  devices to be deployed and attempt to limit the number of SSIDs.

Wi-Fi networks have multiple authentication methods available for use. Each method depends on the network goals, security requirements, user types, and client types that will access the network. Authentication is typically separated into two models, Layer 2 and Layer 3. These models can be combined for additional authentication.

• MAC Authentication
• Pre-Shared Key (PSK)
• 802.1X/EAP
• MAC authentication with 802.1X authentication
• HotSpot 2.0

• Captive Portal Authentication
• WISPr Authentication

• MAC authentication with Captive Portal authentication
• 802.1X authentication with Captive Portal authentication