topic Re: Use EOL APs in Wireless

Use EOL APs

whyme — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:38:59 GMT

Hey everyone, I wanna buy a used EOP Cisco AP (e.g WS-C3650-24PS-L) for my home network cuz I have low budget. Is it still safe to buy one of these after EOL or do you recommend another one?

Re: Use EOL APs

whyme — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:41:25 GMT

e.g Aironet 3700 Series Access Points

Re: Use EOL APs

Flavio Miranda — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:42:12 GMT

@whyme

WS-C3650-24PS-L is a switch not AP. For Lab purpose, it is fine to buy old device like this.

Re: Use EOL APs

Flavio Miranda — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:44:28 GMT

Good AP. Just keep in mind that Cisco AP have two mode: capwap mode or autonomous mode. If you buy with capwap image, you need a WLC, otherwise the AP is useless.

Re: Use EOL APs

whyme — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:53:28 GMT

What I've read as well is that I need the EWC firmware image. That will be difficult to get without a support contract, right?

Re: Use EOL APs

whyme — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:53:47 GMT

wrong example, sorry ;D

Re: Use EOL APs

Flavio Miranda — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 22:00:17 GMT

3700 wont support EWC. For this AP model either you get a WLC or you run it in autonomous mode.

APs that supports EWC. And yes, to download software from Cisco you need Service contract or your login associated with some partner company.

Re: Use EOL APs

Rich R — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 13:35:10 GMT

Just to highlight - not all of those APs can run EWC, some can only be subordinate (join to an EWC AP):
https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/wireless/controller/ewc/17-12/rel-notes/ewc-rn-17-12-x.html#Cisco_Concept.dita_4e686689-db5f-464b-8157-92abcfd40028
Only the Primary AP models can run the EWC controller software:
Cisco Catalyst 9115 Series
Cisco Catalyst 9117 Series
Cisco Catalyst 9120 Series
Cisco Catalyst 9124AXE/I/D
Cisco Catalyst 9130
Cisco Catalyst 9105AXI