Native 80211 Framework for IEEE 80211 Networks.doc

Windows Platform Design Notes Design Information for the Microsoft? Windows? Family of Operating Systems Native 802.11 Framework for IEEE?802.11 Networks Abstract This paper provides information to hardware vendors about a set of wireless services for the Microsoft? Windows? family of operating systems, including Windows CE and future versions of Windows. Called Native 802.11, these services make it possible for a single network adapter to be dynamically configured as an access point or a station. Designed to reduce the long-term cost of goods and provide a superior end-user experience, Native 802.11 offers additional benefits to network adapter manufacturers, including new and enhanced support for quality of service (QoS), location awareness, roaming, and other features. March 26, 2003 Contents Introduction 3 IEEE 802.11 Standard 3 IEEE 802.11 Network Adapters and Native 802.11 4 Native 802.11 Miniport Driver Architecture 4 Native 802.11 Design Overview 5 Native 802.11 STA Design 6 Native 802.11 AP Design 8 Offloaded PHY and MAC Functions 9 PHY Layer Design 9 MAC Layer Design 10 NDIS Object Identifiers (OIDs) 10 Native 802.11 Benefits 11 Windows Logo Program Issues 12 Call to Action and Resources 12 This is a preliminary document and may be changed substantially prior to final commercial release of the software described herein. The information contained in this document represents the current view of Microsoft Corporation on the issues discussed as of the date of publication. Because Microsoft must respond to changing market conditions, it should not be interpreted to be a commitment on the part of Microsoft, and Microsoft cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information presented after the date of publication. This White Paper is for informational purposes only. MICROSOFT MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, AS TO THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT. Complying with all applicable copyright laws is the responsibility of the user. Without limiti