What operation mode does a basic service set (BSS) use?

In the context of wireless networking, a basic service set (BSS) primarily operates in infrastructure mode. This mode involves the use of an access point, which serves as a central hub for communication between multiple devices connected to the network. In infrastructure mode, the access point manages the connections and facilitates communication, allowing devices to communicate with each other and access external networks, such as the internet.

Infrastructure mode is essential in larger networks where numerous devices need to connect and interact efficiently. It allows for better management of network resources and can support more devices than ad hoc mode. By utilizing an access point, the network benefits from enhanced range, stability, and performance compared to more direct forms of communication.

Ad hoc mode, on the other hand, allows devices to connect directly to each other without a central access point, making it less scalable for larger environments. Mesh mode refers to a network configuration where devices interconnect with each other in a mesh layout, improving redundancy and network coverage, but it does not represent a basic service set structure. Client-only mode implies a setup where devices act solely as clients without acting as access points or being involved in broader network communication, which does not correspond to the characteristics of a BSS.