Cisco Wireless Reviews

Name: Cisco Wireless
Brand: Cisco
Rating: 4.1 (151 reviews)

Vendor: Cisco

4.1 out of 5

151 reviews
88% willing to recommend

4,464 followers

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What is Cisco Wireless?

Cisco Wireless is a comprehensive suite of wireless solutions designed to deliver secure, high-performance connectivity for enterprises of all sizes. Offering a range of access points, controllers, and advanced management tools, Cisco Wireless ensures seamless and reliable network access, enhancing mobility and productivity.

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Cisco Wireless is the #3 ranked solution in top Wireless LAN solutions. PeerSpot users give Cisco Wireless an average rating of 8.2 out of 10. Based on the analysis of the 151 most recent Cisco Wireless reviews, the overall sentiment is positive, with a sentiment score of 6.3. (Among the lowest in the category). Cisco Wireless is most commonly compared to Aruba Wireless: Cisco Wireless vs Aruba Wireless. Cisco Wireless is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 60% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 17% of all views.

Helped 825,609 peers since 2012

Featured reviews

Michael Lees

Production Director at Whitespider

Assurance capabilities must be improved. There should be more Assurance features on the Wireless LAN Controller. A lot of it is bundled into the DNA Center. Having a little more Assurance regarding what the RF Spectrum looks like will be good. Juniper Mist has a lot of analytical data on the dashboard. The customers would be compelled to look at DNA Center as a longer-term and more comprehensive solution if Cisco were to give them an insight into some of the Assurance capabilities that might be available in DNA Center. The tool must provide something like RF Neighbor. It must enable organizations to receive signal strength and signal-to-noise ratio and see how clients perform in their wireless network. It must have a cap. If we want additional functionality to see our entire network, that's where DNA Center fits in.

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GulfrazAhmad

Division Head Enterprise Infrastructure (SVP) at a financial services firm with 10,001+ employees

The main concern is the length and overlapping. We have to put on four to six access points on the same floor, and we face the issue of overlapping areas. If Cisco can extend the range of their indoor APs, we would need to install just one or two access points, and it would eliminate the problem of the overlapping area. They should provide built-in features for safe authentication. Right now, we integrate with ISE and FortiClient for this feature. We first check the NAC, and after the NAC and before the domain, a token password installed on their mobile or a physical token is required to join the network. If Cisco had built-in authentication, we would be able to eliminate one product from our network.

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Yaser_Altwailey

Network Engineer at General Authority OF ZAKAT & TAX

The product's initial setup phase was straightforward. For the product's deployment phase, our company makes a plan. After the installation process of the product on an on-premises model, my company builds service accounts with the application team. In the area of the security offered by the firewall, some of the ports are kept open, after which we integrate it with the back-end devices. We use three security zones for the gateway, including the pre-shared key, captive portal, and SMS message through which users can log in to the product. The solution is deployed on an on-premises model. As there is a need to transfer certain services from one account to another during the product's on-premises deployment phase and integration, which is taken care of by our technical personnel, it takes around a month to complete the deployment process. Two engineers and four technicians are required to take care of the deployment and maintenance of the product.

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Cisco Wireless mindshare

As of January 2025, the mindshare of Cisco Wireless in the Wireless LAN category stands at 11.8%, down from 16.0% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Wireless LAN

PeerAnalyst reports

Type	Title	Date
Category	Wireless LAN	Jan 5, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Jan 5, 2025	Download
Comparison	Cisco Wireless vs Aruba Wireless	Jan 5, 2025	Download
Comparison	Cisco Wireless vs Ruckus Wireless	Jan 5, 2025	Download
Comparison	Cisco Wireless vs Cisco Meraki Wireless LAN	Jan 5, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Aruba Wireless	4.2	19.1%	86%	146 interviews Add to research
Juniper Mist Wireless Access Points	4.4	5.8%	100%	19 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Cisco Wireless offers valuable features such as robust security, seamless roaming, centralized management, and easy integration. Users appreciate its scalability, high performance, and reliable coverage. The system provides advanced monitoring and configuration capabilities, including CleanAir technology for interference detection. It supports a wide range of devices, ensuring stable connectivity. Integration with Cisco ISE enhances security measures. The ease of use, coupled with comprehensive support and durable infrastructure, makes Cisco Wireless an attractive choice for many organizations.

"The product is reliable."
"Stability is fine."
"I find the tool to be 99 percent stable."

Room for Improvement

Cisco Wireless users highlight several areas for improvement: management and monitoring features need enhancement with cloud-based solutions, cost reduction, improved access point traffic handling, and a more intuitive GUI. Language support, client training, and better integration with third-party products are also noted. Users express a need for simplified licensing and configuration, enhanced coverage, and robust security features. Improved interoperability with Apple devices and increased reliability and performance during high usage are crucial.

"Sometimes it requires three to five years, and it depends on the subscription. I sometimes face issues with clients regarding this."
"The pricing could be better. It could be cheaper."
"The main disadvantage of Cisco Wireless is its cost - it's expensive. Its interface is not easy. However, I like it since I am an engineer."

ROI

Increased productivity and reduced downtime demonstrate substantial value. Organizations appreciate the stability and connectivity, enhancing access and flexibility. Although some entities report a return within a year, others see it over several years, with manageability and reliability prioritized. Cisco's network allows staff integration without extra network points and provides savings. Non-profits and those with budget constraints cite it as essential rather than primarily lucrative. Enhanced security features boost trust in wireless technology.

Pricing

Enterprise users highlight that Cisco Wireless is perceived as expensive, with setup costs ranging up to $7500 and annual expenses varying widely. Users note licensing complexity and the necessity of purchasing licenses for each access point. Pricing is deemed higher compared to competitors like Aruba and Ruckus but is often justified by Cisco’s reliability and feature set. Value perception differs based on company size and project requirements, with some suggesting flexible licensing could broaden market accessibility.

"I rate the tool's pricing a nine out of ten."
"It is an expensive product. I would rate the pricing a nine out of ten, with ten being expensive."
"I rate the product price an eight on a scale of one to ten, where one is low price and ten is high price."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations use Cisco Wireless primarily for comprehensive wireless connectivity, achieving seamless mobility and stable network coverage in various environments such as hospitals, universities, corporate offices, and industrial facilities. It supports wireless LANs, guest access, and application access, ensuring secure and reliable internet and intranet connections. By utilizing Cisco's features like FlexConnect, users manage wireless devices centrally, enhancing wireless network performance and accommodating diverse business needs, including hospitality and healthcare.

Service and Support

Cisco Wireless receives positive feedback for customer service and technical support. Many users rate customer service highly, often 9 or 10 out of 10. Technical support is noted as knowledgeable, quick, and responsive, although some mention delays and regional variations. Clients appreciate remote access capabilities and swift hardware replacement. Documentation is valued, with forums aiding troubleshooting. Occasionally, users rely on third-party companies, experiencing mixed results in complex issues. On some occasions, engineers' expertise may vary.

Deployment

Most users found Cisco Wireless's initial setup straightforward and simple, especially with prior knowledge of Cisco products. Newer software versions provide helpful wizards. Some mentioned complexity but noted it becomes easier with experience or technical knowledge. Certain configurations, large projects, or specific scenarios presented challenges, requiring skilled personnel. Documentation and online resources prove beneficial. The setup duration varies widely, from hours to several months, depending on deployment size and requirements.

Scalability

Cisco Wireless is generally described as highly scalable. Users indicate it scales well with varying deployments, easily accommodating additional access points and infrastructure needs. Many appreciate its scalability, although some note cost concerns when expanding or replacing components. Users highlight its ease of use in upgrading and adapting to changing environments. While a few express limitations, particularly with older controllers, Cisco Wireless is well-regarded for supporting medium to large-scale networks successfully.

Stability

Cisco Wireless exhibits a high level of stability according to users. They frequently report no issues with crashes or freezes, noting its reliability. Some instances required minor configuration tweaks or updates, but these were often resolved quickly. Users praise its performance in various environments, though there are occasional mentions of power issues or disconnections. While it's generally considered stable, users note the need for proper planning, especially in high-density areas, to maintain optimal performance.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our Cisco Wireless Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

17%

Manufacturing Company

Financial Services Firm

Educational Organization

University

Government

Comms Service Provider

Healthcare Company

Retailer

Energy/Utilities Company

Construction Company

Non Profit

Real Estate/Law Firm

Media Company

Insurance Company

Hospitality Company

Wholesaler/Distributor

Legal Firm

Performing Arts

Outsourcing Company

Transportation Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Mining And Metals Company

Consumer Goods Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Logistics Company

Engineering Company

Compare Cisco Wireless with alternative products

Learn more about Cisco Wireless

Cisco Wireless solutions provide robust, scalable wireless networks capable of supporting high-density environments and diverse applications. With features such as seamless roaming, advanced security protocols, and detailed analytics, Cisco Wireless addresses the needs of modern businesses. The solutions include the Cisco Catalyst and Aironet series access points, wireless LAN controllers, and the Cisco DNA Center for centralized management and automation.

What are the key features of Cisco Wireless?

High-Density Performance: Optimized for environments with a high number of devices, ensuring reliable connectivity and performance.
Advanced Security: Incorporates robust security measures such as WPA3, Secure Boot, and segmentation to protect data and devices.
Seamless Roaming: Enables uninterrupted connectivity as users move across different areas within the network.
Centralized Management: Cisco DNA Center provides a single pane of glass for managing and automating wireless networks, enhancing operational efficiency.
Flexible Deployment Options: Supports various deployment models, including on-premises, cloud-managed, and hybrid solutions.

What benefits should users look for in reviews when evaluating Cisco Wireless?

Improved Mobility and Productivity: Users often highlight how Cisco Wireless enhances user mobility and productivity through reliable and consistent connectivity.
Scalability: Reviews frequently mention the scalability of Cisco Wireless, making it suitable for growing businesses.
Ease of Management: Many users appreciate the centralized management capabilities, which simplify network administration and troubleshooting.
Enhanced Security: The advanced security features are often noted for providing peace of mind and compliance with industry standards.
User Experience: The overall user experience, including ease of use and seamless integration with other Cisco products, is a common point of praise.

Cisco Wireless solutions are implemented across various industries, including healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing. In healthcare, they support critical applications like patient monitoring and electronic health records. Educational institutions use Cisco Wireless to provide reliable internet access for students and staff. Retailers benefit from enhanced customer experiences through in-store connectivity, while manufacturers use wireless networks to improve operational efficiency and automation.

Pricing and licensing for Cisco Wireless solutions are typically based on the scale of deployment and specific product selections. Cisco offers various support plans, including 24/7 customer service, technical support, and access to software updates and patches.

In summary, Cisco Wireless provides robust, scalable wireless networking solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and management for diverse enterprise environments.

Cisco Wireless was previously known as Cisco WLAN Controller.

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Cisco Wireless customers

Aegean Motorway, Baylor Scott & White Health, Beachbody, Bellevue, Brunel University London, Bucks County Intermediate Unit , Chartwell School, Children's Hospital Colorado, Cisco Live Milan, City of Biel, City of Mississauga, Dundee Precious Metals, Electricity Authority of Cyprus, Erickson Living, Goldcorp, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Grupo Industrial Saltillo (GIS)