- Provides both real-time and historical information about RF interference impacting network performance across controllers
- Centralized control, management, and client troubleshooting
- Seamless client access in the event of a WAN link failure (local data switching)
- Indoor and outdoor mesh access point support
- Efficient access point upgrade that optimizes the WAN link utilization for downloading access point images
- Rogue detection for Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance
- Network-based mobility management with Proxy Mobile IPv6 Mobility Access Gateway (MAG) support for integration with cellular data networks
- Comprehensive end-to-end security
- Access points continue to provide seamless services when a controller fails
- SSID high availability with sub second access point failover from primary to standby controller
- Redundant power supply helps to ensure maximum availability
- Allows access points to dynamically establish wireless connections without the need for a physical connection to the wired network
- Integrates Cisco VideoStream technology as part of the medianet framework to optimize the delivery of video applications across the WLAN
- Secure, reliable wireless connectivity and consistent end-user experience
- Increased network availability through proactive blocking of known threats
- Equips administrators for IPv6 planning, troubleshooting, and client traceability
The Cisco 8500 series controller provides centralized control, management, and troubleshooting for high-scale deployments in service provider and large campus deployments. The 8500 series provides flexibility to support multiple architectures in the same controller - centralized controller switched for campus, Cisco FlexConnect for lean branches managed over the WAN as well as mesh support for deployments where full Ethernet cabling is unavailable.
Cisco 8500 series controllers automate wireless configuration and management functions and allow network managers to have the visibility and control needed to cost-effectively manage, secure, and optimize the performance of their branch networks. As a component of the Cisco Unified Wireless Network, this controller provides real-time communications between Cisco Aironet access points, the Cisco Prime infrastructure, and the Cisco Mobility Services Engine, and is interoperable with other Cisco controllers. The Cisco 8500 series controller has integrated Cisco CleanAir technology, providing the industry's only self-healing and self-optimizing wireless network for branches.