For a client to exchange data over a wireless network, it must complete two key steps:
* Association - Establishes the basic radio link between client and access point
* Authentication - Verifies credentials (e.g., WPA2 handshake)
When both are complete, the client is both authenticated and associated.
* A.#Authenticated - Encryption and access control is complete
* B.#Associated - Wireless radio link is established
* C.#Unauthenticated - Incorrect; client is verified
* D.#Unassociated - Incorrect; client is linked to AP
Extract from MTCNA Course Material - Wireless Client States:
"A connected client is associated (Layer 2) and authenticated (security/credentials verified)." Extract from Terry Combs MTCNA Notes - Wireless States:
"Authenticated and associated are required for data transfer. Unassociated = disconnected."