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Introduction
AP-4131 Access Point Product Reference Guide 13
1.3.1 MAC Layer Bridging
The AP listens to all packets on all interfaces and builds an address database
using the unique IEEE 48-bit address (MAC address). An address in the
database includes the interface media that the device uses to associates
with
the AP. The AP uses the database to forward packets from one interface to
another. The bridge forwards packets addressed to unknown systems to the
Default Interface (Ethernet).
The AP internal stack interface handles all messages directed to the AP.
Each AP stores information on destinations and their interfaces to facilitate
forwarding. When a user sends an ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) request
packet, the AP forwards it over all enabled interfaces (Ethernet, radio and
WLAP) except over the interface the ARP request packet was received.
On receiving the ARP response packet, the AP database keeps a record
of the destination address along with the receiving interface. With this
information, the AP forwards any directed packet to the correct destination.
The AP forwards packets for unknown destinations to the Ethernet interface.