802.11k PHYs
==============


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        **What is the role of the PHY layer in 802.11k?**

        The PHY layer in 802.11k inherits characteristics from the underlying 802.11 standards and provides mechanisms to support radio measurements.

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        **Does 802.11k define new physical layer specifications?**

        No, it relies on existing PHY standards like 802.11a/b/g/n but adds measurement capabilities at the MAC/PHY interface.

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        **How does 802.11k use PHY measurements?**

        It uses PHY measurements such as signal strength, noise, and interference levels to optimize network performance.

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        **Which frequency bands are supported by 802.11k PHY?**

        It supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands in line with underlying 802.11 standards.

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        **What PHY metrics are important in 802.11k?**

        Metrics like Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), and Channel Load are key for measurements.

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        **How does 802.11k help improve PHY performance?**

        By providing real-time measurement data that can be used for channel selection, power control, and roaming decisions.

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        **Is modulation scheme affected by 802.11k?**

        No, 802.11k does not change modulation schemes but works with existing PHY features.

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        **Can 802.11k influence transmit power settings?**

        Yes, measurement reports can inform power control algorithms to optimize coverage and interference.

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        **Does 802.11k support measurement of noise levels?**

        Yes, noise histograms are part of the PHY measurements to assess interference.

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        **What is the relationship between PHY and MAC in 802.11k?**

        The PHY provides raw radio data and measurements that the MAC layer uses for decision-making and reporting.

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        **Are timing parameters at the PHY layer important in 802.11k?**

        Yes, precise timing is crucial for measurement accuracy and synchronization.

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        **How does 802.11k handle multipath and fading at the PHY layer?**

        It does not directly address PHY impairments but measurement reports can reveal issues caused by multipath.

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        **Is 802.11k compatible with MIMO PHY technologies?**

        Yes, it works with advanced PHY features like MIMO by collecting relevant measurement data.

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        **How are PHY measurement requests communicated?**

        Measurement requests are sent as action frames from the MAC layer triggering PHY to perform measurements.

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        **Does 802.11k specify measurement duration or intervals at PHY?**

        It defines measurement types and durations to ensure consistency in reporting.

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        **Can 802.11k help with interference detection at PHY?**

        Yes, noise and channel load measurements assist in identifying interference sources.

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        **What PHY information is reported to the AP in 802.11k?**

        Reports include metrics like RSSI, noise histograms, channel load, and frame errors.

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        **How does 802.11k support enhanced roaming using PHY data?**

        PHY measurements allow clients and APs to select better channels and access points during roaming.

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        **Is PHY layer firmware impacted by 802.11k features?**

        Often yes, firmware needs to support measurement reporting and interaction with the MAC layer.

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        **What is the benefit of PHY measurement reports in 802.11k?**

        They enable smarter network management, improved QoS, and better spectrum utilization.


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        Topics in this section,

                * :ref:`Reference links <phy_k_step17>`


.. _phy_k_step17:

.. tab-set::

    .. tab-item:: Reference links

       * Reference links