Systems and methods are introduced for managing a multi-band wireless networking system using a robust control plane. In an embodiment, multiple wireless networking devices are interconnected via a dedicated wireless backhaul to collectively form a single multi-band wireless network providing broad coverage to a client device. The multi-band wireless networking system is managed by wirelessly communicating control information between the multiple wireless networking devices over the control plane in a robust manner that guarantees delivery while minimizing latency. Example techniques for achieving this robust transfer of information include use of robust data rates, use of multiple backhaul channels, use of hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ), use of dedicated control channels, use of alternative transport protocols, and implementation of distributed router functionality.