A root access point (RAP) is the access point connected to the distribution system (DS) in a mesh basic service set (MBSS). It provides the wired anchor through which mesh-connected access points can relay traffic between wireless clients and the DS. section 18.3.4
An MBSS uses wireless links between access points when cabling every access point is impractical or expensive. A RAP connects to the DS; a mesh access point (MAP) does not. Two-radio designs can separate client service from mesh forwarding, while single-radio designs perform both jobs with reduced performance. section 18.3.4 section 18.5
Figure 18.18 An MBSS is a mesh of wireless connections between two types of APs, RAPs and MAPs, that allows them to relay data to and from wireless clients.
Use the topology figure to visualize RAPs and MAPs forming wireless paths between clients and the distribution system. section 18.3.4
