A Cisco wireless LAN controller (WLC) interface is a logical entity representing a controller network connection or service endpoint. Unlike a physical WLC port, it resembles a switch virtual interface (SVI) and performs a defined controller function. section 21.2.1
WLC logical interfaces serve distinct operational roles:
- Management interface: provides default in-band management through a management VLAN and distribution system ports. section 21.4
- AP-manager interface: carries WLC communication with lightweight access points through CAPWAP; by default, the management interface also serves this role. section 21.4
- Dynamic interface: maps a VLAN to a corresponding WLAN, similar to an SVI. section 21.4
- Virtual interface: supports specific services such as DHCP relay and receives the Virtual Gateway IP Address. section 21.4
- Redundancy-management and service-port interfaces support standby-WLC management and dedicated service-port connectivity, respectively. section 21.4
Physical port versus logical interface
Figure 21.9 separates cable-connected WLC ports from logical interfaces. A distribution system port provides the physical connection, while a management or dynamic interface supplies the controller-side network function. section 21.2.1
