Data frame

As explained in Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 2 Advanced Networking and Security

A data frame is an 802.11 frame that carries a data payload between wireless clients.

A data frame is the 802.11 frame type that carries application and network data between wireless clients. Its payload is usually an IPv4 or IPv6 packet. section 19.1.3

Classify data frames alongside the other 802.11 message types:

• Management frames establish and maintain wireless communication, including discovery, authentication, and association. section 19.1.3
• Control frames facilitate delivery over the medium; RTS and CTS manage permission to transmit, while Ack confirms successful receipt. section 19.1.3
• Data frames carry the actual traffic exchanged after wireless communication is established. section 19.3

Typical delivery

A wireless client sends a data frame containing an IPv4 or IPv6 packet. The receiving device returns an Ack; if no Ack arrives, the sender retransmits the frame. section 19.1.3

Figure 19.4 RTS, CTS, and Ack messages facilitate smooth communication over the medium. RTS asks for permission to transmit a frame, and CTS grants permission. Ack acknowledges receipt of the frame.

Use the RTS/CTS/Ack sequence to distinguish control messages that facilitate delivery from the data frame that carries the payload. section 19.1.3

How Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 2 Advanced Networking and Security covers it

How deep it goes

Defines the frame’s role and payload, while stopping short of detailed field layouts or transmission internals.

Examples

Uses an IPv4 or IPv6 packet as the typical payload and contrasts it with RTS, CTS, and Ack exchanges.

What it assumes

Assumes basic awareness of wireless clients and 802.11 communication while distinguishing its three message types.

What you can do after

Evaluate wireless captures by identifying data frames as payload-bearing messages distinct from management and control frames.

How it connects

Connects data frames with management frames, control frames, RTS, CTS, and acknowledgment.

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Related concepts

• network packethas part · A network packet is a formatted unit of data transmitted across a computer network, typically containing control information and a payload.
• 802.11 frameincludes · An 802.11 frame is a link-layer data unit defined by the 802.11 standard for carrying network-layer packets over a wireless medium.

This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 2 Advanced Networking and Security. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.