802.11k MAC Functions
What are the key MAC functions in IEEE 802.11k?
The MAC functions include radio resource measurements, neighbor reports, and management frame enhancements to support efficient network management.
How does 802.11k MAC layer support radio measurements?
It defines protocols for stations to request and report measurements like channel load, noise histogram, and beacon reports via MAC management frames.
What types of measurement requests are handled by 802.11k MAC?
MAC handles requests for measurements such as Beacon Request, Channel Load Request, Noise Histogram Request, and Frame Measurement Request.
How are measurement reports transmitted at the MAC layer?
Measurement reports are sent in standardized MAC management frames in response to measurement requests or unsolicited reports.
What is the role of Neighbor Report in 802.11k MAC functions?
Neighbor Report is a MAC management frame listing nearby APs, helping clients make roaming decisions.
How does 802.11k MAC layer improve roaming?
By providing timely radio environment data and neighbor lists, the MAC layer supports faster handoff decisions.
What management frames are enhanced in 802.11k MAC?
Beacon frames and Probe Response frames are enhanced to carry radio measurement and neighbor information.
Can MAC layer functions trigger measurements autonomously?
Yes, APs or clients can autonomously initiate measurements based on policy or network conditions.
What is a Beacon Measurement Request in MAC functions?
It’s a request sent to measure beacon frames from neighboring APs to assess signal quality and timing.
How does MAC layer handle channel load measurements?
It collects data on channel busy time and idle time to determine congestion levels and reports via management frames.
What is the function of Noise Histogram measurements in MAC?
Noise Histogram tracks noise levels over time to help identify interference and adjust network parameters.
How do MAC functions in 802.11k support power management?
By scheduling measurements efficiently and integrating with sleep modes to minimize power usage during data collection.
Does 802.11k MAC layer provide any security features?
While primarily focused on measurements, MAC frames follow 802.11 security protocols to ensure safe communication.
How do MAC functions interact with PHY layer in 802.11k?
MAC functions request and interpret PHY measurement data to make radio resource decisions.
What is Frame Measurement in 802.11k MAC functions?
Frame Measurement analyzes received frames to evaluate network traffic characteristics and quality.
How does MAC layer manage measurement intervals?
It schedules measurement requests and reports to balance network overhead and timely data delivery.
Can MAC functions in 802.11k support load balancing?
Yes, by providing detailed channel and client information to APs, MAC functions help distribute load efficiently.
Are 802.11k MAC functions implemented in client devices?
Yes, clients participate by performing measurements and responding to MAC layer requests from APs.
What role does MAC layer play in network diagnostics for 802.11k?
It enables collection of radio environment data, aiding administrators in troubleshooting and optimizing networks.
How do MAC functions in 802.11k enhance overall Wi-Fi user experience?
By enabling smarter radio resource management, reducing interference, and facilitating seamless roaming.
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