802.11aq Packet Formats

What is the basic structure of an 802.11aq packet?

An 802.11aq packet consists of a MAC header, payload (including service discovery information), and a frame check sequence (FCS).

How does the 802.11aq packet format differ from earlier 802.11 standards?

It includes additional fields to support pre-association service discovery and advertisement.

What types of frames are defined in 802.11aq?

802.11aq introduces enhanced management frames for service discovery, in addition to data and control frames.

What role do Information Elements (IEs) play in 802.11aq packets?

IEs carry detailed service discovery data, allowing devices to advertise available network services.

How is backward compatibility maintained in 802.11aq packet formats?

802.11aq frames maintain core 802.11 MAC frame structure, enabling legacy devices to ignore unknown IEs.

What is the significance of pre-association service discovery in packet format?

It allows clients to learn about services before connecting, included in specialized management frames.

Does 802.11aq use standard MAC headers?

Yes, it uses standard MAC headers with additional fields or IEs for new features.

Are there new frame control subtypes introduced in 802.11aq?

Yes, new subtypes are defined to support service discovery and advertisement functions.

How is the payload structured in 802.11aq packets?

Payload may include service information, advertisements, or queries encoded within IEs.

What security considerations affect 802.11aq packet formats?

Packets support encryption and authentication methods consistent with 802.11 standards to protect service info.

How does fragmentation work with 802.11aq packet formats?

Large service discovery frames can be fragmented according to standard MAC fragmentation procedures.

Are there special broadcast or multicast packets in 802.11aq?

Yes, broadcast and multicast management frames are used to advertise services to multiple clients.

How do 802.11aq packets handle Quality of Service (QoS)?

QoS fields in the MAC header prioritize service discovery frames to ensure timely delivery.

What is the maximum size of an 802.11aq packet?

It follows the 802.11 maximum frame size limits, typically up to 2346 bytes before fragmentation.

Are 802.11aq packet formats compatible with WPA3 security?

Yes, packet formats support advanced encryption and authentication methods including WPA3.

How do 802.11aq packets support roaming?

Service discovery information in packets helps clients select optimal APs for seamless roaming.

What encoding/modulation does 802.11aq use for its packets?

It uses the physical layer modulation and coding schemes of the underlying 802.11 standard it operates with.

Can 802.11aq packets be transmitted before association?

Yes, pre-association packets enable devices to discover services prior to connecting to an AP.

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