Systems and methods for wireless discovery and connectivity in 802.11 networks. A management frame from an access point (AP) or personal basic service set (PBSS) control point (PCP) indicates which designated channels are operating and which are non-operating, for purposes of subsequent wireless communications, such as Association Beamforming Training (A-BFT). The management frame contains a bitmap or other forms for indicating which of the designated channels are operating and which are non-operating. In response to the information received through the management frame, one or more stations (STA) can select any one of the operating channels for transmitting of frames in A-BFT communication or other access periods in the Beacon Interval.