MSM7xx Controllers Configuration Guide v6.4.0

25 Working with autonomous APs
Key concepts
This chapter describes how to use the controller in conjunction with autonomous APs.
TIP: Most of this chapter applies to working with autonomous MSM APs. For third-party
autonomous APs, see “Working with third-party autonomous APs” (page 536).
APs can operate in either controlled mode or autonomous mode. In controlled mode, the controller
provides centralized management of APs. This is the preferred operation mode. See “Working
with controlled APs” (page 145).
However, in some other cases it is necessary to operate APs in autonomous mode, for example
under the following circumstances:
• When an AP is used to create a static WDS (local mesh) link. Controlled mode does not
support static local mesh links. It is strongly recommended that dynamic WDS (local mesh)
links be used. They provide the same capabilities but with greater flexibility. Furthermore,
local mesh is supported in controlled mode.
• An AP at software version 4.x or earlier is used. Controlled mode is available on APs at
software version 5.x or higher. It is strongly recommended that controllers and autonomous
APs be updated to the same software version, and preferably 5.x or higher. Controlled APs
are automatically updated to the controller software version.
HP recommends that you operate most MSM APs in controlled mode, reserving autonomous mode
only for APs that need features unique to autonomous mode. In autonomous mode, the following
features are not available: Centralized management, wireless mobility, and WPA2 Opportunistic
key caching.
Autonomous AP detection
The controller automatically detects all autonomous APs that have their CDP discovery option
enabled (default setting) and are installed on the same subnet as the controller.
To configure this CDP discovery, select Network > CDP on the AP management tool.
Viewing autonomous AP information
When the controller detects at least one autonomous AP, the Summary box and the Network Tree
are updated to include autonomous AP information as follows:
Key concepts 533