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Q
What is a Cisco Controller Module?
A
A Cisco Controller Module is a hardware component that centralizes management of wireless access points, offering unified configuration, monitoring, and optimization for enterprise Wi-Fi networks.
Q
What are the key benefits of using Cisco Controller Modules?
A
Key benefits include: improved network scalability, seamless policy enforcement, real-time RF management, and enhanced security through integrated threat detection.
Q
Which Cisco Controller Module models are available?
A
Available models include the 2504, 3504, 5520, and 8540 Series, each supporting different access point densities, throughput capacities, and redundancy options.
Q
How do I choose the right Cisco Controller Module for my network?
A
Select based on access point count, throughput requirements, high-availability needs, and supported features like advanced RF management and guest access.
Q
How do I configure a Cisco Controller Module?
A
Initial configuration is performed via the web GUI or CLI: assign a management IP, set WLAN profiles, define security policies, and add access points under Wireless > Access Points.
Q
What types of licenses are required for Cisco Controller Modules?
A
You need a Base License for essential features, plus optional software licenses (Foundation, Enhanced, and Advanced Services) to enable application visibility, intrusion prevention, and advanced analytics.
Q
How do Cisco Controller Modules integrate with Cisco DNA Center?
A
Controller Modules register with Cisco DNA Center for centralized policy, automation, assurance, and software image management across wired and wireless domains.
Q
Can Cisco Controller Modules support high-availability?
A
Yes. Active/Standby and N+1 failover configurations ensure session persistence and uninterrupted connectivity during hardware or software failures.
Q
What security features do Cisco Controller Modules offer?
A
They provide AES-CCMP encryption, rogue AP containment, 802.1X authentication, wireless intrusion prevention (WIPS), and integrated guest access management.
Q
How many access points can each Cisco Controller Module manage?
A
Capacity varies by model: the 2504 supports up to 75 APs, the 3504 up to 150 APs, the 5520 up to 1500 APs, and the 8540 up to 6000 APs.
Q
What wireless protocols are supported by Cisco Controller Modules?
A
They support 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax standards, including MU-MIMO, beamforming, and OFDMA to optimize performance and client density.
Q
How do I upgrade the software on a Cisco Controller Module?
A
Use the GUI or CLI to download the latest Cisco IOS XE or AireOS image, stage it on the controller, and perform an in-place upgrade with automatic rollback on failure.
Q
What is the difference between AireOS and IOS XE on Cisco Controller Modules?
A
AireOS is a dedicated wireless OS with mature features, while IOS XE offers unified image management, programmability (NETCONF/YANG), and deeper integration with Cisco DNA.
Q
How do Cisco Controller Modules optimize radio frequency (RF) performance?
A
They perform dynamic RF management—automatic channel assignment, power adjustment, and interference mitigation—to maximize coverage and throughput.
Q
What troubleshooting tools are available on Cisco Controller Modules?
A
Built-in tools include spectrum analysis, packet capture, wireless event logs, RF heat maps, and real-time statistics to expedite fault isolation.
Q
How do I secure management access to a Cisco Controller Module?
A
Enforce role-based access control (RBAC), use secure protocols (HTTPS, SSH), integrate with TACACS+/RADIUS, and enable two-factor authentication for administrator accounts.
