Myth 1: ACs need to perform switching functions—hence the name WLAN switches.
There is no such requirement. In fact, the earliest ACs were appliances (and in some cases, PCs running Linux). The control function is the important part of the implementation—the switching is often included to accelerate the forwarding of traffic to and from the APs.
Myth 2: Rogue WTP detection is a standard function of ACs.
This is a desired function in several implementations but is not necessarily “standard.” One reason is that this is an area of differentiation among vendors (for example, the algorithms they use to classify a WTP as a rogue WTP). Another reason is that the ACs have to rely on APs or air monitors, and this reliance varies according to implementation.
Myth 3: The delineation between Fat, Thin, and Fit APs is clearly defined.
There are several types of implementations of AP (and AC) functions, so this myth is not necessarily true. For a sample of the taxonomy (snapshot) of WTP and AC implementations, see RFC 4118 [4].
Myth 4: Layer 2 and Layer 3 mobility are standard in AC + WTP architectures.
This is not really true. The Proxy MIP implementation for Layer 3 mobility is a step in this direction, but most AC vendors rely on proprietary mechanisms for AC-AC communication and Layer 3 mobility.
Myth 5: Security functions such as firewall, intrusion detection, and so on are not a function of ACs.