Dell PowerConnect W-Series Instant Access Point 6.1.3.4-3.1.0.0
| User Guide
Virtual Controller |
107
Chapter 9
Virtual Controller
Dell Instant does not require an external controller to regulate and manage the Wi-Fi network. Any IAP in the
Dell Instant network dynamically takes up the role of a Virtual Controller (VC) without impacting the network. It
coordinates, stores, and distributes all the settings required to provide a centralized functionality to regulate and
manage the Wi-Fi network. The Virtual Controller also functions like any other AP with full RF scalability. It also
acts as a node, coordinating DHCP address allocation for network address translated clients ensuring mobility of
the clients when they roam between different IAPs.
Master Election Protocol
The Master Election Protocol enables the Dell Instant network to dynamically elect an IAP to take on a VC role,
allow graceful failover to a new Virtual Controller when the existing VC is down, and avoid race conditions. This
protocol ensures stability of the network during initial startup or when the VC goes down by allowing only one
IAP to self-elect as a VC.
Virtual Controller IP Address
You can specify a single static IP address that can be used to manage a multi-AP Dell Instant network. This IP
address is automatically provisioned on a shadow interface on the IAP that takes the role of a Virtual Controller.
When an IAP becomes a Virtual Controller, it sends three Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) messages with the
static IP address and its own MAC address to update the network ARP cache.
Specifying Name and IP Address for the Virtual Controller
To specify name and IP address for the Virtual Controller:
1. At the top right corner of WebUI, click the
Settings
link. The
Settings
window appears.
Figure 95
Specifying Virtual Controller Name and IP Address
2. Enter a name for the Virtual Controller in the
Name
text box.
Summary of Contents for PowerConnect W-IAP3WN
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Page 106: ...106 NTP Server Dell PowerConnect W Series Instant Access Point 6 1 3 4 3 1 0 0 User Guide ...
Page 134: ...134 Authentication Dell PowerConnect W Series Instant Access Point 6 1 3 4 3 1 0 0 User Guide ...
