Chapter 2 - WLAN Architectures

Single MAC Model - This is sometimes called Edge, Autonomous, or Standalone because in this model the AP's are intelligent and can handle all 802.11 services by themselves. AP's in this model are often called "Fat" not due to their weight or girth, but because their brethren below are called "Thin" AP's

Split MAC Model - This architecture requires a controller to handle many of the MAC layer operations. This is why its often called a "Centralized" Model. Because much of the traffic is send back to a "central" controller. As noted above, AP's in this model are often called "thin" AP's. Some may go as far as to say they are "dumb" AP's. But I don't condone bullying.