A cloud-based Wi-Fi controller facilitates fast BSS transitions. IEEE 802.11r or other fast BSS transition parameters are transferred through the cloud from the wireless station, for pre-population in neighboring or nearby access points. In more detail, a neighbor list is received from a wireless station connected to the data communication system through a first access point. The neighbor list identifying access points within range of the wireless station or that are otherwise nearby, from the cloud for pre-configuration.