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IAPP (Inter Access Point Protocol)

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The Inter Access Point Protocol (IAPP) is a communication protocol used in wireless networks to enable the handover of a wireless client device from one access point (AP) to another in a seamless manner. This protocol is used by wireless network devices such as access points, wireless controllers, and wireless clients. It was developed by the Wireless LAN Interoperability Forum (WLIF) and is now a standard under the IEEE 802.11f specification.

In this article, we will discuss the key features and functions of IAPP, how it works, its benefits, and its limitations.

Key Features and Functions of IAPP

  1. Client Roaming: IAPP enables client devices to roam between access points within a wireless network without any interruption to the ongoing network session. This feature ensures that the client device maintains its network connection while moving between coverage areas.
  2. AP Coordination: IAPP allows for coordination between access points within a wireless network, ensuring that the handover of client devices between APs is efficient and effective. This coordination helps to prevent the client device from experiencing a delay or loss of connectivity when switching between APs.
  3. Fast Handover: IAPP facilitates fast handovers of client devices between APs, ensuring that the handover process is completed within a short duration. This feature is particularly important for real-time applications such as video conferencing and online gaming, which require a stable and uninterrupted network connection.
  4. Load Balancing: IAPP can be used to balance the load between different access points within a wireless network. This feature ensures that no single AP is overloaded with client devices, which can result in a degraded network performance.

How IAPP Works

IAPP uses a client-server model to facilitate communication between access points within a wireless network. The access points act as servers, while the client devices act as clients. When a client device moves out of the range of one AP and into the range of another, the following steps are taken:

  1. Discovery: The client device sends out a probe request to discover nearby access points.
  2. Association: The client device associates with the new access point, and the access point notifies the old access point that the client device is about to move to a new AP.
  3. Handover: The old access point sends a disassociation message to the client device, and the client device then associates with the new access point. The new access point notifies the old access point that the handover has been completed.

Benefits of IAPP

  1. Seamless Roaming: IAPP enables seamless roaming between access points, ensuring that client devices can maintain their network connection while moving between coverage areas. This feature is particularly useful for applications that require a stable and uninterrupted network connection, such as real-time applications.
  2. Improved Network Performance: IAPP can be used to balance the load between access points within a wireless network, ensuring that no single AP is overloaded with client devices. This feature helps to improve network performance and prevent congestion.
  3. Fast Handover: IAPP facilitates fast handovers of client devices between access points, ensuring that the handover process is completed within a short duration. This feature is particularly important for real-time applications that require a stable and uninterrupted network connection.

Limitations of IAPP

  1. Proprietary: IAPP is a proprietary protocol and is not an open standard. This means that it can only be implemented by vendors who have obtained a license from the WLIF. This restriction can limit the adoption of IAPP in wireless networks.
  2. Compatibility Issues: IAPP may not be compatible with some older wireless network devices that do not support the protocol. This limitation can make it challenging to implement IAPP in wireless networks that have a mix of older and newer devices.
  3. Security Concerns: IAPP does not provide strong security features, which can make the wireless network vulnerable to attacks. For example, an attacker can use a rogue AP to intercept and steal sensitive information from client devices. This limitation makes it important to implement additional security measures in conjunction with IAPP.
  4. Complex Implementation: IAPP can be complex to implement and configure, requiring significant expertise and resources. This complexity can make it challenging for smaller organizations to adopt IAPP in their wireless networks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Inter Access Point Protocol (IAPP) is a communication protocol that enables seamless roaming of client devices between access points within a wireless network. IAPP provides several key features, including client roaming, AP coordination, fast handover, and load balancing. However, IAPP also has several limitations, including its proprietary nature, compatibility issues, security concerns, and complex implementation. Despite its limitations, IAPP is a valuable tool for improving the performance and reliability of wireless networks, particularly in applications that require a stable and uninterrupted network connection.