A physical AP is virtualized into multiple virtual access points (VAPs). Each VAP provides the same functions as a physical AP. You can create different VAPs on an AP to provide wireless access services for different user groups.
VAPs are classified into the following types according to their functions:
Service VAP: provides WLAN services for wireless users to access the Internet.
Wireless distribution system (WDS) VAP: sets up WDS links for wireless service backhaul.
Mesh VAP: sets up Mesh links for wireless service backhaul.
Management VAP: allows wireless users to log in to an AP to manage it.
Service VAP and Management VAP
On a WLAN, an AP is a functional entity that provides WLAN services. VAPs can provide wireless service coverage and provide wireless signals for users to access the WLAN. In Figure 1, VAP0 is a service VAP.
In addition, VAPs can also be used to manage APs. Wireless users can log in to an AP through Telnet over the WLAN. In Figure 1, VAP1 is a management VAP.
Figure 1 Service VAP and management VAP
WDS VAP
On a WDS network, an AP is a functional entity that provides WDS services for neighboring APs. VAPs are used to set up WDS links between neighboring APs. In Figure 2, VAP12 and VAP13 are WDS VAPs. VAP12 of AP_1 sets up a WDS link to VAP13 of AP_2, and VAP12 of AP_2 sets up a WDS link to VAP13 of AP_3.
Mesh VAP
On a Mesh network, APs are connected through Mesh links, and connect to a wired network through a Mesh node. VAPs are used to set up Mesh links between neighboring APs. In Figure 3, VAP15 is a Mesh VAP. VAP15 of AP_1 sets up a Mesh link to VAP15 of AP_2, and VAP15 of AP_2 sets up a Mesh link to VAP15 of AP_3.
VAP Differences
Different VAPs are used in different wireless service scenarios. Table 1 lists the VAP differences.
VAP Type | Characteristics | Usage Scenario |
Service VAP | STAs can only access network resources but cannot access APs. | All wireless service scenarios |
WDS VAP | After the WDS function is enabled, VAP12 and VAP13 are automatically created on an AP for setting up WDS links. VAP12 provides the WDS connection function for VAP13. | WDS wireless backhaul scenarios |
Mesh VAP | After the Mesh function is enabled, VAP15 is automatically created on an AP for setting up Mesh links. | Mesh wireless backhaul scenarios |
Management VAP | l STAs connected to a management VAP can only manage an AP but cannot access network resources. l To enable the STAs to access the AP, configure IP addresses in the same network segment as the AP for the STAs. l A management VAP can be applied to only one radio of an AP. | Scenarios where administrators want to use STAs to manage APs |
