Q
What is the HPE MSM400 Series Access Point?
A
The HPE MSM400 Series Access Point is a high-performance, dual-radio wireless LAN solution designed for small to mid-sized enterprises, offering scalable coverage, advanced security, and centralized management via HPE Instant or Aruba AirWave.
Q
What are the key features of the HPE MSM400 Series Access Points?
A
Key features include simultaneous dual-band 2.4 GHz/5 GHz operation, up to 1.3 Gbps aggregate throughput, integrated Bluetooth Low Energy, 802.11ac Wave 2 MU-MIMO, and controller-based or virtual cloud management.
Q
Which wireless standards do HPE MSM400 Series Access Points support?
A
HPE MSM400 Series supports IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wave 2 standards with MU-MIMO for enhanced density and throughput, ensuring compatibility with legacy and modern Wi-Fi devices.
Q
What data rates can I expect from HPE MSM400 Access Points?
A
The MSM400 Series delivers up to 400 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, providing a combined theoretical throughput of 1.3 Gbps per access point.
Q
How many concurrent clients can HPE MSM400 APs handle?
A
Each MSM400 Access Point supports up to 256 concurrent clients, leveraging MU-MIMO and airtime fairness to optimize performance in high-density environments.
Q
Are HPE MSM400 Series Access Points powered by PoE?
A
Yes, HPE MSM400 Series Access Points support 802.3at PoE+ and 802.3af PoE, simplifying deployment by eliminating the need for separate power cabling.
Q
What security protocols do MSM400 Access Points support?
A
MSM400 Access Points support WPA3-Personal, WPA3-Enterprise, WPA2-PSK, 802.1X with RADIUS, MAC filtering, rogues AP detection, and AES encryption for comprehensive wireless security.
Q
Can I manage HPE MSM400 Access Points in the cloud?
A
Yes, HPE MSM400 APs can be managed via Aruba Central cloud, HPE Instant On, or on-premises controllers (Aruba AirWave and Virtual Mobility Controller) for flexible network administration.
Q
Do HPE MSM400 APs support mesh networking?
A
HPE MSM400 Series supports secure, self-forming mesh topology with automatic path selection, enabling wireless uplinks in challenging or cabling-restricted environments.
Q
How do I install an HPE MSM400 Series Access Point?
A
Mount the MSM400 on a standard ceiling tile or wall, connect to PoE switch or injector, adopt it into your chosen controller or Instant On interface, and configure SSIDs via the web GUI.
Q
What coverage area does the MSM400 Series provide?
A
Each MSM400 Access Point offers up to 1,500 sq ft of indoor coverage, with actual range dependent on building materials, antenna placement, and environmental factors.
Q
Are MSM400 Series APs compatible with Aruba controllers?
A
Yes, HPE MSM400 Access Points are fully compatible with Aruba Mobility Controllers, Virtual Mobility Controllers, and AirWave for seamless integration into existing Aruba infrastructures.
Q
What warranty and support options are available for MSM400 APs?
A
HPE MSM400 Series includes a one-year limited warranty, upgradable to HPE Care Pack Services for next-business-day on-site support, extended hardware coverage, and software updates.
Q
How much do HPE MSM400 Series Access Points cost?
A
MSM400 pricing varies by model and channel partner but typically ranges from $300 to $500 USD per unit; volume discounts and Care Pack bundles may further reduce total cost.
Q
What is the difference between HPE MSM430 and MSM460?
A
The MSM460 adds an integrated 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplink port and higher transmit power, while both models share identical radio specifications and management features.
Q
Can HPE MSM400 APs be used in outdoor environments?
A
The MSM400 Series is designed for indoor use only; for outdoor deployments, HPE’s Outdoor AP portfolio, such as the MSM430-Outdoor, is recommended.