Cisco Embedded Wireless Controller vs. HPE Networking Instant On Access Points

Overall I could see myself recommending these to others if they have the right set of circumstances at their place of business. Those would be like ours, if they had a location that couldnt be served by a WLC. Once setup they are easy to manage and self healing as in they wont go down when one is offline.

Incentivized

It is possible that we have a bad luck with the deployment. However, It is capable to perform enterprise-level security to fit some of the organization's standards. With Airwave and other tools, it's easy to manage and administrate your wireless environment. Make aware of the IPsec tunnel from each user to the controller if you are using Clearpass for NAC. If you have a remote office with local resources, you will need controller or IAP to route traffic locally. If you have many remote offices, you will need to deploy controllers or IAP in each office, which lead to additional cost and management.

• They seem solid and well built, hardly ever fail
• Once you get a hand of the setup they're easy to add/remove
• Automatic failover is seamless and super helpful

Incentivized

• They have the range we need especially in our warehouses were they are mounted up on the ceiling.
• They can all be controlled by a controller, which makes for easy configurations and monitoring.
• The ability to have multiple SSID's is great. We are able to push traffic where it needs to go.
• The built-in Guest network on the controller is top notch, and makes it super easy to give guest internet access but not access to your network.

Incentivized

• The GUI is difficult to understand
• The process of setting up the Cisco Embedded Wireless Controller is cumbersome, but I like its reliability

Incentivized

• Remote access points were a little tricky to get working and requires a controller outside of the two we were currently using. On the plus side they have an inexpensive controller that worked for our needs.
• I feel Aruba needs to offer more training in a hands on lab environment.

Incentivized

Aruba Networks Wireless LAN is very intuitive to use. After the initial learning curve for the Aruba OS platform, it is straightforward. Day-to-day tasks, such as deploying an access point with a configuration, are very straightforward. Standard incremental system upgrades are also very intuitive. If you have any past experience with Aruba network switching or Cisco switching, the command structure is relatively similar.

Incentivized

It is a reliable and complete solution for providing wireless network to users. I had no technical problems during those years. The Aruba controller and access points have always worked very well and we have greatly improved the relationship with customers and we now have absolute control over the wireless network traffic. It has quality assurance and support with efficient service as well.

Incentivized

Cisco Embedded Wireless Controller provides the ability to manage and deploy the wireless network from a web UI or mobile application, and without the expense or complexity of a wireless controller appliance.

Incentivized

In the past we used Cisco APs. As many may agree, Cisco is not known for their management software and interfaces. Aruba makes this much more user friendly. The cost is also a major factor. The hardware seems to be equal in quality to Cisco, but at a reduced price.

Incentivized

• Money saved not needing a WLC and separate APs.
• Time saved during setup if you're using a Cisco DNA.
• Long term it may be more time spent diagnosing issues.

Incentivized

• It is a scalable solution, so if the company expands or contracts, the Aruba Instant Wi-Fi Access Points can be added or removed.
• It is an expensive purchase, but you will earn it back because you have less disruptions, which does not cost IT hours. And the wifi users can do their work without interruptions
• Aruba Instant Wi-Fi Access Points require little maintenance.
• High security standards that connect to the existing corporate network, saving you time

Incentivized