Catalyst Access Points

Cisco Meraki Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points

In today's interconnected world, the demand for fast, reliable, and secure wireless connectivity is paramount. Whether in bustling office environments, educational institutions teeming with students, or public venues hosting large crowds, the need for robust Wi-Fi infrastructure has never been greater. Enter the realm of Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points, a cutting-edge solution designed to meet the challenges of modern wireless networking head-on.

Introduction to Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points: Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points represent the pinnacle of wireless networking technology, offering unparalleled performance, versatility, and security. These access points, denoted by model numbers such as CW9162*, CW9164*, CW9166*, CW9166D1*, and MR57, are engineered to deliver exceptional wireless connectivity across a spectrum of environments, from small businesses to large enterprises.

Key Features and Capabilities: At the heart of Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points lies a rich array of features and capabilities designed to empower organizations with reliable and high-speed wireless connectivity. Let's delve into some of the key attributes:

  1. Tri-Band Operation: One of the defining characteristics of these access points is their ability to operate across three distinct frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and the newly available 6 GHz band. This tri-band functionality ensures optimal performance and flexibility in managing wireless networks, mitigating congestion, and maximizing throughput.

  2. Multiple Spatial Streams: Leveraging Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) technology, Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points enable simultaneous data transmission to multiple devices, enhancing network efficiency and user experience. With configurations such as 2x2:2 MU-MIMO for the 2.4 GHz band and 4x4:4 MU-MIMO for the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands, these access points deliver impressive throughput and coverage.

  3. WIDS/WIPS Integration: Security is a paramount concern in wireless networking, especially in environments with sensitive data or strict compliance requirements. These access points incorporate Wireless Intrusion Detection System (WIDS) and Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS) functionality, providing real-time monitoring and protection against unauthorized access, rogue devices, and potential threats.

  4. Bluetooth© Low Energy/IoT Radio: In addition to Wi-Fi connectivity, Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points feature integrated Bluetooth© Low Energy (BLE) and Internet of Things (IoT) radio capabilities. This allows for seamless integration with BLE-enabled devices and IoT sensors, facilitating the deployment of smart building solutions, asset tracking systems, and more.

  5. Aggregate Frame Rate: With aggregate frame rates ranging from 3.9 Gbps to 7.78 Gbps, depending on the model, these access points deliver blistering performance capable of supporting bandwidth-intensive applications, high-definition video streaming, and large-scale data transfers.

  6. Interface and Connectivity Options: Equipped with multigigabit Ethernet ports, these access points offer high-speed wired connectivity, ensuring robust backhaul and seamless integration with existing network infrastructure. Additionally, USB 2.0 ports provide additional connectivity options for peripherals or storage devices.

  7. Management Flexibility: Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points can be centrally managed using cloud-based platforms such as the Meraki cloud, offering simplified deployment, monitoring, and configuration. Alternatively, organizations can opt for on-premises management using the Cisco Catalyst Center, providing greater control and customization.

  8. Power Options: Whether powered via 802.3at/bt PoE+ or UPoE-compliant switches or through DC power adapters, these access points offer flexible power options to suit various deployment scenarios and infrastructure requirements.

  9. Performance Enhancements: Leveraging advanced features such as UL/DL-OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), Target Wake Time (TWT) support, BSS (Basic Service Set) coloring, SU-MIMO (Single-User MIMO), and UL/DL MU-MIMO support, these access points optimize spectral efficiency, reduce latency, and improve overall network performance.

  10. Advanced Wi-Fi Standards Support: Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points support a wide range of Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11n, 802.11ac Wave 2, and the latest 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) standard. This ensures compatibility with legacy devices while providing future-proofing for emerging technologies and applications.

  11. Dimensions and Weight: Designed for ease of deployment, these access points feature compact form factors, with dimensions ranging from 7.8 inches x 7.8 inches x 1.7 inches to 9.5 inches x 9.5 inches x 2.28 inches, and weights ranging from 2.05 lbs to 3.75 lbs, depending on the model.

Applications and Use Cases: Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points find application across a diverse array of environments and industries, catering to the connectivity needs of businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, hospitality venues, and more. Some common use cases include:

  1. Enterprise Environments: In large office buildings or corporate campuses, these access points deliver robust, high-speed wireless connectivity to support a multitude of devices, applications, and services. From BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) initiatives to video conferencing and cloud-based productivity tools, organizations rely on these access points to keep their workforce connected and productive.

  2. Education Sector: Schools, colleges, and universities leverage Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points to create modern learning environments that foster collaboration, creativity, and engagement. Whether in classrooms, lecture halls, or campus-wide wireless networks, these access points provide seamless connectivity for students, faculty, and administrative staff.

  3. Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and healthcare facilities require secure and reliable wireless connectivity to support critical applications such as electronic medical records (EMR), telemedicine, and medical IoT devices. Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points offer the performance, coverage, and security needed to ensure uninterrupted access to vital healthcare services.

  4. Hospitality Industry: Hotels, resorts, and conference centers rely on high-speed Wi-Fi to deliver exceptional guest experiences and support a wide range of guest-facing amenities, from in-room entertainment and digital concierge services to mobile check-in and event streaming. These access points enable hospitality providers to meet the connectivity demands of today's tech-savvy travelers.

  5. Public Venues and Events: Stadiums, convention centers, concert halls, and other public venues host large gatherings of people who expect fast and reliable wireless connectivity. Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points are designed to handle the density and diversity of devices present in such environments, ensuring seamless connectivity for attendees, vendors, and organizers.

In conclusion, Ultra-High-Performance Wi-Fi 6E Access Points represent a pinnacle of wireless networking technology, offering unmatched performance, reliability, and security for organizations across various industries. With their tri-band operation, advanced features, management flexibility, and diverse applications, these access points are poised to meet the evolving connectivity needs of the digital age. Whether supporting mission-critical business operations, enhancing educational experiences, or delighting guests in hospitality settings, these access points are a cornerstone of modern wireless infrastructure, empowering organizations to stay connected, competitive, and secure in an increasingly connected world.

Model Numbers:

* Unified hardware models for Catalyst and Meraki / Antennas sold separately