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AIR-CT5520-K9
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Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller, 1500 APs, 20000 Clients,...
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Name:
AIR-CT5520-K9
- Description:
- Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller, 1500 APs, 20000 Clients, 20Gbps, Rack-Mount Kit
- Rating:
Added to cart 28 times recently
- Availability:
2 In stock - Ready to Ship
- Brand:
- Cisco
- GTIN:
- 0882658811333
- Condition:
Certified Refurbished
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AIR-CT5520-K9 Overview
AIR-CT5520-K9 is the Cisco 5520 Wireless Controller platform for high-scale controller-based WLAN domains, with a 1RU appliance design and capacity for 1,500 access points and 20,000 clients. It is an AireOS-era controller built for centralized campus control, FlexConnect branch operation, and mesh bridge deployments where supported Cisco access points are managed from a common controller layer. The platform belongs to Cisco’s legacy 5520 controller family and is positioned for medium to large enterprise wireless networks that need higher scale than smaller branch controllers. AIR-CT5520-50-K9 differs as the 50-access-point ordering SKU.
1,500 AP capacity places this controller in large WLAN estates where multiple floors, buildings, or remote groups need unified SSID, policy, and RF administration. 20,000 client support gives the platform enough controller scale for dense user environments, while 20 Gbps throughput supports centralized traffic designs with high access point counts. 2 x 1G or 10G SFP/SFP+ data interfaces provide the primary network handoff, alongside service, redundancy, CIMC, console, and management access. AIR-CT5520-K9 supports CAPWAP, IEEE 802.1X, WPA, WPA2, SNMP, CLI, web management, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, Cisco Mobility Services Engine, and Cisco access point integration.
AIR-CT5520-K9 fits a branch or campus network rack where the wireless controller layer remains separate from access switching and routing. Cisco has transitioned the 5520 Wireless Controller to end-of-sale status, so certified refurbished supply is often used for replacement continuity, HA pairs, spare inventory, and existing AireOS controller estates. ORM Systems supplies this controller in new and certified refurbished condition where available, with PID verification, interface testing, factory reset, and prior configuration wiped before dispatch. Request pricing for single-unit replacement, controller-pair planning, or volume sourcing across mixed new and refurbished wireless infrastructure.
AIR-CT5520-K9 price is $9,204.00, a 66.3% saving from the Cisco list price of $27,332.00. AIR-CT5520-K9 is in stock and available for next-day dispatch. (terms applied)
Request bulk order quote for AIR-CT5520-K9 for additional pricing. Browse the full Cisco Wlan Controller series or explore all Cisco products.
AIR-CT5520-K9 Specifications
- Product Type
- Wireless Controller
- Product Name
- Cisco 5520 Wireless Controller
- Manufacturer Part Number
- AIR-CT5520-K9
- Brand
- Cisco
- Series
- Cisco 5520 Wireless Controller
- Wireless Type
- Wireless Controller
- Environment
- Indoor
- Data Rate
- 20 Gbps throughput
- Security Features
- WPA / WPA2 / 802.1X
- Management Features
- Controller-Managed / Web GUI / CLI / SNMP
- Compatible Controllers
- Cisco Aironet APs; Cisco Catalyst APs; Cisco Prime Infrastructure; Cisco Mobility Services Engine
- Max Number of Devices Supported
- 20,000 clients
- AP Capacity
- 1,500 APs; 20,000 clients
- Connector Type
- RJ-45 / SFP / SFP+
- Ethernet Technology
- Gigabit Ethernet / 10 Gigabit Ethernet
- Ethernet Port
- 2 x 1G or 10G SFP/SFP+; 1 x 1G service RJ-45
- Power Details
- 770W AC PSU option; 90-264 VAC input; 190W maximum power
- Mounting Options
- Rack-Mount 1U
- Operating Temperature
- 41 to 104°F (5 to 40°C)
- Package Quantity
- 1-Pack
- Compliance
- Safety: UL 60950-1, CSA 60950-1, EN 60950-1 / EMC: FCC Class A, EN55022 Class A
- Height
- 1.70 in
- Width
- 18.98 in
- Depth
- 30.98 in
- Weight
- 13.6 kg
AIR-CT5520-K9 Use Case
Campus Wireless Control Plane
AIR-CT5520-K9 sits in the campus network and centralizes control for Cisco access points across buildings, floors, and wireless zones. Engineers terminate AP control through CAPWAP, map WLANs to VLANs, apply authentication policies, and monitor client activity from the controller software. The 20 Gbps platform throughput, 1,500 AP scale, and 20,000 client scale support large AireOS-based controller domains. The result is a centralized WLAN control plane with consistent SSID, roaming, and policy behavior across the campus.
Branch FlexConnect Management Plane
The controller anchors a distributed wireless design where branch access points run FlexConnect while AIR-CT5520-K9 remains the central policy and management point. Network teams define WLAN profiles, AP groups, VLAN mappings, and authentication behavior on the controller, then let branch APs handle selected local switching according to the design. The 5520 platform supports many branch AP groups under one operational model. The result is branch wireless control without placing a separate controller appliance at every remote site.
Wireless Controller Resiliency Pair
A matched AIR-CT5520-K9 pair operates as the controller layer for high-availability wireless services. Engineers align software versions, connect the redundancy port, configure controller HA, and validate AP failover behavior before production cutover. The platform uses redundant connectivity options and Cisco wireless failover mechanisms to preserve controller operations during planned maintenance or hardware events. The result is a wireless control design that reduces outage exposure for AP registration, client continuity, and centralized WLAN administration.
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Product Comparison Table 
| AIR-CT5520-K9 |  AIR-CT8510-SPK9-RF |  AIR-CT7510-300-K9 |  AIR-CT8510-6K-K9 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Wireless Controller | Wireless Product | Wireless Access Point | Wireless Access Point |
| Wireless Type | Wireless Controller | Access Point | Access Point | Access Point |
| Data Rate | 20 Gbps throughput | 1Gbps | 300Mbps | Up to 1Gbps |
| Connector Type | RJ-45 / SFP / SFP+ | RJ-45 | RJ-45 | RJ-45 |
| Mounting Options | Rack-Mount 1U | Ceiling Mount / Wall Mount | Ceiling Mount, Wall Mount | Ceiling Mount / Wall Mount |
| Ethernet Port | 2 x 1G or 10G SFP/SFP+; 1 x 1G service RJ-45 | 1x Gigabit | 1x Gigabit | 1x Gigabit |
| Management Features | Controller-Managed / Web GUI / CLI / SNMP | Cloud Management / On-Premises / SNMP | On-Premises, SNMP | Cloud Management / On-Premises / SNMP |
| Security Features | WPA / WPA2 / 802.1X | WPA2 / WPA3 / 802.1X | WPA2, WPA3 | WPA2 / WPA3 / 802.1X |
| Compliance | Safety: UL 60950-1, CSA 60950-1, EN 60950-1 / EMC: FCC Class A, EN55022 Class A | FCC / CE / RoHS | FCC, CE, RoHS | FCC / CE / RoHS |
| Product Name | Cisco 5520 Wireless Controller | AIR-CT8510-SPK9-RF | AIR-CT7510-300-K9 | AIR-CT8510-6K-K9 |
Compliance & Warranty
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Every unit is authentic, sourced through trusted and authorised channels, and serial-verified on request. Genuine networking and IT hardware, guaranteed, or your money back.
Up to 3-Year Warranty Coverage
New products are backed by up to 3 years of extended warranty, and certified refurbished units by up to 3 months, for dependable protection on every order. Coverage is clear, honoured in full, and confirmed on each product page.
Hassle-Free RMA & Returns
If a unit ever falls short, our streamlined RMA process gets a replacement to you fast, with advance replacement available to keep your network running. No jargon, no runaround.
Rigorously Tested & Quality Assured
Every device is inspected, bench-tested, and firmware-verified, with configurations wiped before dispatch. Additional testing can be arranged to confirm full working condition on request.
Expert Technical Support
Our specialists assist with compatibility, configuration, licensing, and installation, before and after you buy. Real hardware expertise, whenever you need it.
Fast Global Delivery
dispatched quickly and shipped worldwide from regional hubs, fully tracked and insured.
Reviews & Ratings
J
Justin Baker
5
Powerful controller with excellent throughput.
S
Saba Qureshi
4
Handled dense WLAN smoothly.
M
Marco Silva
4
Stable and scalable.
H
Helen Brooks
5
Good long term investment.
N
Noman Ashraf
5
Very satisfied.
Questions & Answers
What is Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9?
Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9 is a Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller for centralized wireless control, policy enforcement, RF management, and access point coordination. It is built for medium to large campus and branch networks that need high AP scale, controller redundancy options, and 20 Gbps controller throughput in a 1RU rack-mounted platform.
What does the AIR-CT5520-K9 model number identify?
AIR-CT5520-K9 identifies the Cisco 5520 Wireless Controller base hardware appliance. The SKU refers to the controller platform, not an individual access point. In deployment planning, AP capacity depends on the controller software version, licensing position, and supported Cisco access point models connected through CAPWAP.
What hardware type is AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is a wireless LAN controller appliance, not a wireless access point, router, or switch. It sits in the wired network and manages Cisco wireless access points, WLAN policies, roaming, authentication integration, RF controls, and client sessions across supported centralized, FlexConnect, and mesh deployment modes.
Where does Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9 sit in the Cisco wireless controller lineup?
Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9 sits above smaller controllers such as AIR-CT3504-K9 and AIR-CT5508-K9, and below higher-scale appliances such as AIR-CT8540-K9. It targets high-scale 802.11ac Wave 2 controller deployments with 20 Gbps throughput, up to 1,500 access points, and up to 20,000 clients.
What throughput does AIR-CT5520-K9 support?
AIR-CT5520-K9 supports 20 Gbps controller throughput according to Cisco 5520 platform specifications. That throughput level suits larger WLAN designs where many access points send client traffic, control traffic, authentication events, and roaming updates through a centralized wireless controller architecture.
How many access points and clients does AIR-CT5520-K9 support?
Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9 supports up to 1,500 access points and up to 20,000 clients when the deployment uses the required software, licensing, and supported access point models. This scale makes the 5520 controller suitable for larger campus, multi-building, and distributed wireless environments.
What data ports are available on AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 includes 2x SFP+ data ports for high-speed controller connectivity. Cisco platform documentation also identifies a service port, CIMC port, redundancy port, USB ports, VGA, and serial access for management and operational access. Buyers should confirm optics, cabling, and port use before deployment.
What rack format does AIR-CT5520-K9 use?
AIR-CT5520-K9 uses a 1RU rack-mounted chassis, making it suitable for standard network racks and data center cabinets. The product name includes a rack-mount kit, and Cisco documentation lists 770W AC power options for the platform. Rack depth, airflow, and power planning should be checked before installation.
Which deployment modes does AIR-CT5520-K9 support?
Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9 supports centralized campus mode, FlexConnect mode for branch APs managed across the WAN, and mesh bridge mode for deployments where Ethernet cabling is limited. These controller modes let network teams keep WLAN policy, authentication, and AP control under one Cisco wireless control plane.
Does AIR-CT5520-K9 support high availability?
AIR-CT5520-K9 supports resilient controller designs through Cisco wireless high availability features, redundant connectivity options, and a dedicated redundancy port on the platform. Cisco documentation also references subsecond AP and client failover capabilities. Matched controller pairs, software alignment, and correct HA configuration remain important deployment requirements.
What is AIR-CT5520-K9 used for?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is used to centralize wireless access point management, WLAN policy, roaming behavior, security integration, RF control, and troubleshooting across Cisco wireless networks. It fits environments where many APs need consistent SSIDs, authentication flows, VLAN mapping, QoS policies, and controller-based operational visibility.
What environment size fits Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9?
Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9 fits medium to large wireless environments that exceed the scale of branch controllers. Its 1,500 AP and 20,000 client maximums position it for larger campus, multi-site, and high-density WLAN designs where controller capacity and centralized management matter more than compact branch form factor.
What workloads suit AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 suits enterprise WLAN workloads involving high client counts, roaming users, voice over WLAN, secure authentication, guest access, RF visibility, and centralized policy control. The 20 Gbps throughput and large AP scale make it useful where wireless traffic and control-plane operations need a dedicated controller appliance.
Does AIR-CT5520-K9 work for branch wireless deployments?
AIR-CT5520-K9 works in branch wireless designs through Cisco FlexConnect, where remote access points remain managed by the controller while selected traffic policies operate locally. This deployment pattern supports lean branch sites, WAN-aware wireless management, centralized configuration, and consistent WLAN policy without placing a controller in every location.
Which Cisco ecosystem products integrate with AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 integrates with Cisco Aironet access points, Cisco Prime Infrastructure, Cisco Mobility Services Engine, and the Cisco Unified Wireless Network architecture. It uses CAPWAP for AP control and supports controller-based WLAN services across Cisco wireless deployments that remain on compatible software and access point families.
Which protocols and standards are relevant to AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 operates in Cisco wireless controller environments using CAPWAP for access point control and DTLS-secured controller communications where configured. It supports standards-based WLAN security designs through Cisco controller software, including enterprise authentication integrations commonly used with 802.1X, RADIUS, WPA, and WPA2 deployments.
Which management tools are used with AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is managed through Cisco wireless controller software interfaces and integrates with Cisco Prime Infrastructure for network monitoring and administration. The hardware platform also includes CIMC access for server-level hardware management. Network teams should align controller software, AP images, and management tooling before rollout.
Can AIR-CT5520-K9 integrate with redundant controller designs?
AIR-CT5520-K9 integrates into redundant Cisco wireless controller designs when paired with compatible controller hardware, aligned software versions, and proper HA configuration. The platform includes a redundancy port and supports Cisco failover-oriented WLAN architectures, helping maintain AP control and client continuity during controller events.
How does AIR-CT5520-K9 compare with AIR-CT5508-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 provides a major scale step above AIR-CT5508-K9. Cisco 5520 supports up to 1,500 APs, 20,000 clients, and 20 Gbps throughput, while Cisco 5508 belongs to the older 5500 controller family with lower AP scale. AIR-CT5520-K9 is the stronger choice for larger 802.11ac controller refreshes.
How does AIR-CT5520-K9 compare with AIR-CT3504-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is built for larger controller deployments than AIR-CT3504-K9. Cisco 3504 supports up to 150 APs, 3,000 clients, and 4 Gbps throughput, while Cisco 5520 supports up to 1,500 APs, 20,000 clients, and 20 Gbps throughput. AIR-CT3504-K9 fits smaller sites, while AIR-CT5520-K9 fits larger WLAN estates.
How does AIR-CT5520-K9 compare with AIR-CT8540-K9?
AIR-CT8540-K9 is the higher-scale platform above AIR-CT5520-K9. Cisco 8540 supports up to 6,000 APs, 64,000 clients, 40 Gbps throughput, and 4x SFP+ data ports, while Cisco 5520 supports 1,500 APs, 20,000 clients, 20 Gbps throughput, and 2x SFP+ data ports.
How does AIR-CT5520-K9 compare with Cisco Catalyst 9800-L controllers?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is an AireOS-era Cisco wireless controller, while C9800-L-C-K9 and C9800-L-F-K9 belong to the Catalyst 9800 IOS XE controller family. Cisco 5520 offers higher legacy appliance scale than standard 9800-L models, but Catalyst 9800 platforms are the strategic migration path for newer Cisco wireless architectures.
Is AIR-CT5520-K9 available new or refurbished?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is commonly sourced in refurbished condition because Cisco has transitioned the 5520 Wireless Controller to end-of-sale status. New surplus availability depends on market supply. ORM Systems lists enterprise hardware in both new and refurbished channels where stock is available and condition is confirmed before quotation.
What affects the AIR-CT5520-K9 price?
AIR-CT5520-K9 price depends on hardware condition, included rack-mount kit, power supply configuration, licensing position, warranty term, tested status, and available market stock. Buyers comparing prices should confirm whether the offer includes only the controller appliance or additional licences, optics, support services, and accessories.
Is AIR-CT5520-K9 end of sale?
Cisco has announced end-of-sale status for the Cisco 5520 Wireless Controller, with Cisco recommending migration toward Catalyst 9800 controllers. AIR-CT5520-K9 remains relevant for maintenance, spares, like-for-like replacements, lab environments, and organizations extending existing AireOS-based wireless controller estates.
What lead time should buyers expect for AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 lead time depends on whether the buyer needs new surplus, refurbished tested hardware, a specific power configuration, licences, rack accessories, or bulk quantities. ORM Systems provides quotation-based availability so procurement teams receive condition, testing, warranty, and dispatch details before purchase approval.
Are bulk discounts available for AIR-CT5520-K9?
Bulk pricing for AIR-CT5520-K9 is available when buyers need multiple controllers for spares, staged refreshes, regional controller deployments, or redundant pairs. Quantity, condition, warranty term, and accessory requirements affect the final offer. ORM Systems supports volume quotation for enterprise IT hardware procurement.
What warranty is available for AIR-CT5520-K9 from ORM Systems?
ORM Systems offers warranty options for AIR-CT5520-K9 based on condition, availability, and order requirements, with up to 3-year warranty coverage available on eligible hardware. Buyers should confirm warranty term, replacement process, covered components, and support expectations when requesting a quote for this controller.
Is refurbished AIR-CT5520-K9 tested before dispatch?
Refurbished AIR-CT5520-K9 units supplied by ORM Systems are tested before dispatch according to reseller hardware quality processes. Testing should confirm power-on status, chassis condition, port visibility, management access, and platform identification. Buyers should request exact test scope when the controller is needed for production replacement.
Which compliance points matter for AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 compliance checks should focus on Cisco platform authenticity, regional power compatibility, software entitlement, security policy requirements, and supported WLAN standards in the target environment. For regulated procurement, buyers should request Cisco documentation, serial validation where applicable, and condition-specific paperwork before approval.
How is AIR-CT5520-K9 initially configured?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is initially configured through Cisco wireless controller setup processes using console or management access, network addressing, management interfaces, software version checks, country and regulatory settings, WLAN profiles, AP join parameters, and authentication integration. Teams should plan maintenance windows before introducing the controller into production.
Does AIR-CT5520-K9 require licences or software?
AIR-CT5520-K9 requires compatible Cisco wireless controller software and appropriate AP licensing for the intended access point count. Buyers should confirm licence entitlement, software support status, AP compatibility, and migration plans before purchase, especially when replacing an existing controller or expanding beyond the current AP count.
What accessories or prerequisites are needed for AIR-CT5520-K9?
AIR-CT5520-K9 deployments require rack space, power, compatible SFP+ optics or cables for data ports, management connectivity, console access when needed, supported Cisco APs, correct software, and licensing. Redundant designs also require a compatible peer controller, redundancy cabling, and matching high availability configuration.
Where is AIR-CT5520-K9 available to buy in the UK?
AIR-CT5520-K9 is available to buy in the UK through ORM Systems for enterprise hardware procurement, subject to stock, condition, warranty, and configuration requirements. Buyers can request pricing for the Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller, including refurbished or new surplus options when available.
Does ORM Systems ship AIR-CT5520-K9 internationally?
ORM Systems supports international shipping for AIR-CT5520-K9 where logistics, export requirements, product condition, and destination rules allow fulfilment. International buyers should confirm delivery location, preferred shipping method, required documentation, and any import handling needs during the quotation process for the Cisco 5520 controller.