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It's been fun but I'm going with the shinier model next time (meraki)
November 12, 2019

It's been fun but I'm going with the shinier model next time (meraki)

Peter Cross, M.ITM | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User

Software Version

2500 Series Wireless controllers

Overall Satisfaction with Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers

Using to control 4 access points throughout the enterprise. We love the ease of use and the ability to add more nodes or change profiles within a matter of moments via the GUI. While the CLI is proficient for most people the ability to see all of the changes being implemented before the change is superb.
  • Ease of use
  • Easy installation
  • Easy to reset and/or reuse in another building should it not be needed.
  • Ability to add a module for extra POE ports without having to go out to another PoE switch.
  • Cisco needs to move away from the CLI. It's archaic and a dying art. It was great in it's day but the technology has surpassed this need.
  • Implementation of DHCP/DNs without a seperate DNS/DHCP server. While basic DHCP/DNS is capable in the 2504 I'd like more options and a robust implementation without having to use a seperate device.
  • Better availability for 24/7 operations
  • Can be hardened for MiM attacks or DDoS.
  • Employees love that it works. We have not had to reboot anything in months.
We went with 2504 in our main office vice Meraki due to the enterprise-grade functionality. However, after implementing Meraki at our two smaller sites I'd go with Meraki over the WLC's in the future for this business. Ubiquiti threw the kitchen sink at our trying to buy their product over Cisco. We didn't even consider them.

Do you think Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers's feature set?

No

Did Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers again?

No

Well suited for SMB with an IT Staff. It's not appropriate for small businesses without an IT staff. If you do not have a dedicated IT staff I'd recommend you go with the Meraki products. It's easier to implement, manage, and keep up than WLC's. The 2504 WLC is great for Enterprise branch office implementation. But, again, if IT is not onsite it may not be a good fit should it fail.

Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers Support

Smartnet keeps costing more and more. Going forward we're going with Meraki rather WLC and AP's. The license and support on Meraki are much cheaper than with traditional Cisco from an ROI and TCO perspective.