What does a Distribution System (DS) connect to in a WLAN?

A Distribution System (DS) in a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) serves the critical function of connecting access points to allow for communication between different segments of the network. Specifically, it connects the wireless network infrastructure to the local area network (LAN).

In a WLAN, access points facilitate the entry of wireless clients into the network. However, to manage traffic flow and carry data transmissions to and from the wired infrastructure, the DS acts as a bridge. This means that while wireless clients connect to access points, those access points utilize the DS to relay data back to the LAN where resources and services are hosted.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of the DS. For example, connecting directly to the internet service provider does not fall under the scope of what a DS does since it specifically pertains to the internal networking of wireless communications. Similarly, the DS does not connect directly to wireless clients or to authentication servers, which are responsible for verifying user identities—these roles are typically handled by the access points and other dedicated authentication systems. Thus, the essence of the DS is its integration of wireless infrastructure into the broader local network context.