What distinguishes an Enterprise WLAN from a SOHO WLAN?

An Enterprise WLAN is characterized by its use of a Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) and Lightweight Access Points (LWAPs), which are integral for centralized configuration and management of the wireless network. This infrastructure allows for efficient deployment, streamlined updates, and enhanced performance, particularly in environments with a high density of devices and users. The centralized management provided by the WLC simplifies the administration of security policies, network segmentation, and quality of service, making it suitable for larger organizations.

In contrast, a Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) WLAN typically operates with a standalone access point and is designed for simpler, less demanding environments. In these scenarios, the management and configuration tasks tend to be performed individually at each access point, lacking the centralized capabilities that an Enterprise WLAN provides.

The structure and scalability inherent in an Enterprise WLAN allow it to cater to dynamic user needs and site-specific requirements, while a SOHO WLAN is limited in both complexity and capability, aimed more at basic connectivity for personal or small business use. This distinction is critical for understanding network design and implementation in different environments.