topic Re: Problem configuring CW9178I for Mesh in Wireless

Problem configuring CW9178I for Mesh

Bradley Rousseau — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 16:36:37 GMT

Hello Community,

I'm struggling to get my CW9178I APs meshing on my 9800-L-F. I have followed a Configuration Guide from YouTube, but I am stuck at the part where i am supposed to classify the "AP Mode - Bridge" and "Role - Root/Mesh". I cannot find anywhere in the GUI where I can specify these parameters.

This led me to looking for more cisco documentation on setting up mesh. I was looking for any other mesh configuration guides, either through the GUI or CLI. I couldn't find anything better than the YouTube video I was following. However it did add to my confusion, because I cam upon a Feature Matrix for Cisco Wireless Access Points document that says the the CW9178 cannot do "Mesh Mode" (Image Attached Below).

Any guidance on how I could move forward is appreciated.

Re: Problem configuring CW9178I for Mesh

Mark Elsen — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 17:04:59 GMT

- @Bradley Rousseau That is probably true (no mesh support) for those models, because they are designed for
local use.
Seems to be confirmed with : https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless/catalyst-9800-series-wireless-controllers/215100-join-mesh-aps-to-catalyst-9800-wireless.html#toc-hId--1791301994
>....This example uses lightweight access point (1572AP and 1542)

Re: Problem configuring CW9178I for Mesh

Rich R — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 14:35:45 GMT

Yes that table is from https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/wireless/access_point/feature-matrix/ap-feature-matrix.html#_Toc205553644

Sometimes mesh support will come in a later release depending on customer demand, but generally only the outdoor APs come with mesh as default.

But in Cloud Managed (Meraki) mode it apparently can support repeater mode (Meraki term for mesh) so that's something to consider if you need the feature:
https://documentation.meraki.com/MR/Install_and_Get_Started/Installation_Guides/CW9178I_Installation_Guide#Basic_Troubleshooting