Cisco Lightweight and Autonomous AP

When it comes to Cisco wireless access points, there are two main types: the Cisco Autonomous and Lightweight AP. Both types of access points have their own unique features and use cases. In this post, we discuss the differences between Cisco autonomous access points and lightweight access points and when to use each type.

Autonomous Access Points

An autonomous access point is a standalone device that operates independently from other access points. It is capable of providing basic wireless connectivity, security, and management features without the need for a central controller. Small to medium-sized networks typically use autonomous access points when deploying only a few access points.

Autonomous access point configuration employs either a web interface or command-line interface (CLI). This allows for a high degree of customization and control over the access point. The configuration includes parameters such as SSID, security settings, radio settings, and VLANs. All the configuration changes made on one autonomous access point need to be manually replicated on other access points, making it time-consuming and error-prone.

Lightweight Access Points

Lightweight access points, on the other hand, require a central controller to operate. The controller manages the configuration, firmware updates, and provides a centralized management platform for all the access points in the network. The configuration changes are made on the controller, and the controller pushes the configuration to all the access points.

Lightweight access points have several advantages over autonomous access points. They are easier to manage and configure because all the configuration is done on the controller. Changes made on the controller are automatically pushed to all the access points, ensuring consistency across the network. Lightweight access points also provide advanced features such as load balancing, rogue access point detection, and more.

Differences Between Autonomous and Lightweight Access Points

The main differences between autonomous and lightweight access points are:

Centralized Management

As previously mentioned, lightweight access points require a central controller to operate. The controller manages the configuration, firmware updates, and provides a centralized management platform for all the access points in the network. Autonomous access points, on the other hand, do not require a central controller and operate independently.

Configuration

Configure autonomous access points through either a web interface or command-line interface (CLI). The configuration includes parameters such as SSID, security settings, radio settings, and VLANs. All the configuration changes made on one autonomous access point are manually replicated to other access points, making it time-consuming and error-prone. Lightweight access points require controller based configuration, where all access points in the network receive their configuration from the controller.

Advanced Features

Lightweight access points provide advanced features such as load balancing, rogue access point detection, and more. Autonomous access points, on the other hand, provide only basic wireless connectivity, security, and management features.

When to Use Autonomous Access Points

Small to medium-sized networks typically use autonomous access points where only a few access points deployed. Guest networks or small branch offices also use autonomous access points because they work well in situations that do not necessitate a centralized management platform.

When to Use Lightweight Access Points

Large-scale networks with many access points deployed are ideal for lightweight access points. They provide advanced features and are easier to manage and configure than autonomous access points. Lightweight access points are also ideal for networks that require a high level of security, as the centralized management platform can quickly detect and respond to security threats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both autonomous and lightweight access points have their own unique features and use cases. Autonomous access points are ideal for small to medium-sized networks where a centralized management platform is not required. Lightweight access points are ideal for large-scale networks with many access points deployed, and they provide advanced features and easier management and configuration. Understanding the differences between a Cisco Autonomous and Lightweight AP is a must prior to taking the CCNA exam.