Method and apparatus for network management using periodic measurements of indicators

A radio signal used in data communication, such as IEEE 802.11, is provided with data extensions. Data extensions allow additional information to be provided through the radio signal, thereby reducing the network traffic header. Data extensions also allow transfers and transfers based on offset values. Periodic radio beacon orders are made during a connection between a wireless transmission / reception unit (WTRU) and an access point (AP) on a WLAN. A Measurement Order field corresponding to a radio frequency order contains a measurement duration value and a channel number for which the order is applied. The radio beam order allows a scan mode that includes an "Active Scan" mode, a "Passive Scan" mode and a "Beacon Table" mode. In Active Scan mode, the measuring station (STA) transmits a scan request with a broadcast SSID. In Passive Scan mode, the STA in measurement passively receives on the specified channel and returns a radiobeacon report that contains an information element for each STA from which it detects a scan or radiobeacon response. In Beacon Table mode. The STA in measurement returns a radiobeacon report that contains the current contents of its radiobeacon table without additional measurements.