Interview Questions

What are the messages exchange between STA and AP in WLAN? Explain the function of each.

WLAN testing FAQ


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What are the messages exchange between STA and AP in WLAN? Explain the function of each.

There are various messages exchanged between Station (STA) and Access Point (AP) in a WLAN network for various purpose such as establishing connection, data transfer, terminate the connection and more. Access points are devices which help extend wired network with wireless capabilities. The main WLAN MAC messages are listed below with their main function. Association request: This is sent by STA to AP to obtain association after authentication is done. Association response: This message is sent by AP in response to the received association request. Probe request: It is used to find out AP in WLAN network. Probe response: It contains station (STA) parameters as well as data rates. Beacon: It is used by AP to announce the start of a CF (Contention Free) period. Disassociation: Used to announce break up of existing association between peers in a WLAN network. Authentication: These packets are used by STA to request authentication. De-Authentication: Used by authenticated station to announce that receiver is no longer need to be authenticated. RTS/CTS: Used for initial handshake between WLAN peers. ACK: indicates the receipt of transmitted data whether reached on other side or not. CF end: It indicates end of CFP (contention free period). Many interview questions are based on WLAN frame types.

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