Cisco
Cisco Aironet 3802I wireless access point
Best scalable controller for large enterprise wireless network management.
The Cisco Aironet 5508 Wireless LAN Controller is a highly scalable platform designed for mission-critical wireless networks in medium to large enterprises. It ensures maximum scalability and enhanced uptime with robust RF visibility and protection. This controller supports managing up to 500 access points simultaneously, delivering superior performance for demanding applications like streaming video and toll-quality voice. Featuring Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and improved fault recovery, it provides a consistent mobility experience in challenging environments.
$1003.07
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
23
/ 641
#23 in Wireless Access Points
Price vs Category Average
+38%
Above average
Product Type
Wireless Access Point
/ Wireless Access Point
Who it's for
- IT managers supporting crowded office or event spaces
- Network administrators needing to maximize wireless capacity dynamically
- Security teams requiring seamless integration with existing Cisco infrastructure
Who should skip it
- Small businesses operating on a limited hardware budget
- Generalists lacking specialized Cisco networking expertise
- Organizations with older switches lacking PoE+ capabilities
Performance breakdown
Scalability
Handles up to 500 access points with ease for large enterprises.
Wireless Standard
Relies on aging Wi-Fi 4 technology, limiting modern high-speed throughput.
Network Reliability
Robust architecture ensures consistent uptime for mission-critical business operations.
Management Efficiency
Centralized controller management simplifies oversight of complex, multi-point network deployments.
Media Performance
Optimized for voice and video traffic in demanding enterprise environments.
Deployment Flexibility
Versatile mounting options suit various ceiling and wall installation requirements.
Key Specs
Product Type
Wireless Access Point
Ethernet Technology
Gigabit Ethernet
Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports
3
Height
1.8 inches
Depth
21.2 inches
Weight (Approximate)
20 lb
Input Voltage
110 V AC, 220 V AC
Manufacturer Part Number
AIR-CT5508-500-2PK
Features
- Enables reliable, high-speed wireless business networks.
- Offers faster wired network connectivity.
- Provides efficient network control.
- Scalable platform for enterprise environments.
- Supports superior performance for video and voice.
- Enhanced uptime with RF visibility.
- Improves fault recovery for consistent mobility.
- Manages up to 500 access points.
What customers say
Enterprise users highly value the Cisco Aironet 3802I primarily for its exceptional reliability and performance in high density settings. Customers consistently praise its stability after setup, which results in minimal support needs and excellent uptime. The integration within the Cisco ecosystem simplifies centralized management across large deployments. While the device delivers industry leading throughput under heavy load, its premium cost and configuration complexity are noted drawbacks. Organizations without specialized networking staff may find the initial setup challenging. Ultimately, the consensus is that this access point is a respected workhorse, delivering the mission critical performance required by large, demanding environments, provided the investment in cost and expertise is manageable.
Know before you buy
While the product is categorized as an access point, the specific model AIR-CT5508-500-2PK is a Wireless LAN Controller. It is designed to manage and coordinate up to 500 access points across your enterprise network.
No, this controller does not support Power over Ethernet. It requires a standard 110V or 220V AC power connection for operation.
The 5508 controller acts as the central brain for your wireless network. It handles traffic management, security, and RF visibility, ensuring consistent performance for voice and video applications across large environments.
Yes, the unit is designed for flexible installation and supports both ceiling and wall mounting to suit your server room or office infrastructure.
This controller features Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring high-speed wired connectivity to your network backbone to handle the data traffic from your managed access points.
This platform is built for medium to large enterprise environments that require high scalability. If you are managing a very small network, this hardware may exceed your requirements.
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