Understanding WLAN MAC Frame Types and Subtypes

This document describes the different types and subtypes of WLAN MAC frames. WLAN MAC frames are broadly classified into three categories: management frames, control frames, and data frames.

• Management Frames: These frames handle network management functions, such as joining a network, authenticating, and discovering available networks.

• Control Frames: These frames assist in the delivery of data frames. Examples include request-to-send (RTS), clear-to-send (CTS), and acknowledgment (ACK) frames.

• Data Frames: These frames carry the actual data payload.

The table below details the type and subtype fields for each of these frame categories:

WLAN MAC Frame Types and Subtypes Table