A hierarchical wireless network is comprised of two levels, a first level configured for wired coupling to an IP network and comprised of a gateway configured for wired coupling to the IP network, a WiARP server and a data store; and a second level, wired to the first level by a distribution system, and comprised of at least two access points, each configured for wireless association with a respective plurality of mobile stations and having a WiARP proxy residing therein. For each mobile station associated with the second level, the WiARP server maintains an IP address of the mobile station and a MAC address for the access point with which the mobile station is associated. Conversely, each WiARP proxy maintains, on behalf of the associated access point, IP and MAC addresses for each mobile station associated therewith.