What are the key benefits of Cisco FlexConnect?

The key benefits of Cisco FlexConnect include locally switching traffic per WLAN and maintaining functionality during a WAN outage. This capability is particularly crucial for remote or branch offices where consistent network performance is essential, even when the connection to the central office is compromised. By allowing local traffic switching, FlexConnect reduces latency and conserves bandwidth on the WAN link, as data does not need to be sent back to a centralized controller for processing.

In addition, during a WAN outage, FlexConnect APs can continue to operate using locally cached data and authentication methods, ensuring that users remain connected and services remain available without interruption. This design feature significantly enhances the resilience and reliability of network services in distributed environments.

The other choices highlight aspects that either do not accurately reflect the primary benefits of Cisco FlexConnect or are too limiting in their description of its capabilities. For instance, while standardized management and low-cost deployment can be beneficial features, they do not directly encompass the critical capability of handling traffic locally and maintaining functionality during outages, which are hallmark features of FlexConnect.