Many examples exist of a mobile node moving between the operational zones
of multiple network access points or base stations. To minimize delay in
re-authenticating with the network through a new base station, an
additional form authenticated access mode called "credential
authenticated" access is provided. The mobile unit is fully authenticated
in the first base station (e.g., the user has logged in and paid for
service). Thereafter, the first base unit transmits a "credential" to the
mobile node that may be used by other base stations to establish trust
with the mobile node prior to full re-authentication. Upon entering the
operational zone of the second base station, the mobile node can transmit
the credential to the second base station, which may accept the
credential and allow access by the mobile node to the network through the
second base station before full authentication has completed.