When troubleshooting access point deployment, what is the first thing to verify?

Verifying that the access point has received a DHCP lease is pivotal in troubleshooting access point deployment because it is essential for the device to obtain an IP address from the DHCP server in order to communicate on the network. If the access point does not have a proper IP address, it cannot join the network or relay information back to the management system, affecting its overall functionality.

When the access point receives a DHCP lease, it means that it can communicate with the DHCP server and is properly integrated into the network. This step helps confirm that the access point is powered on and operational, able to reach the DHCP server, and configured to obtain an IP address correctly. By ensuring that the access point has an IP address, you establish a baseline functionality that allows for further troubleshooting steps such as checking connectivity, SSID configuration, or firmware issues.

Once you know the device is connected and configured on the network, you can then proceed to investigate other factors like power supply status, SSID configuration, or firmware version, but without the DHCP lease, the access point may not function correctly at all.