can C9115AXI-S work without WLC

[stevenlsf]

Last year we purchased a C9115AXI-EWC-S as office WAP and it works quite well. This year I need to purchase only 1 WAP for a new office. The model C9115AXI-EWC-S is no more available. The distributor provided C9115AXI-S.

Based on searching, this model operates as a standard lightweight access point (CAPWAP mode) and requires a separate Wireless LAN Controller (WLC), such as the Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series, for management and control. It does not have embedded wireless controller functionality.

My question is if this C9115AXI-S can work as standard alone with special software license? or it must work with a Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series controller which I try avoid to buy just for 1 WAP. We do have  C9300L-24P-4X-E switch and I wonder if this can be used instead as controller with special software and setup. Thanks.

[Leo Laohoo]

Download the vWLC.  It is free.

[stevenlsf]

Thanks. I think you are referring to IOS-XS. I assume this need to be installed on physical or virtual CISCO Wireless Controller(on cloud etc). I was told I can use C9115AXI-S with IOS-XS upgrading to work standalone without additional WC. I am not sure your are referring to the same solutino. Sorry I am a bit new to CISCO and from the online document it is not easy to find the confirmatino of this info.

• Lightweight Mode (Default):
  The C9115AXI-S is designed to operate as a lightweight access point, which means it must join a wireless LAN controller (WLC) running IOS-XE (such as a Catalyst 9800 series controller, either hardware or virtual/cloud) for configuration and management. The AP itself does not run a full IOS-XE image independently21.

• Embedded Wireless Controller (EWC) Mode:
  Some Catalyst 9100 series access points, including the C9115AXI-S, can be converted to run as an Embedded Wireless Controller (EWC). In this mode, the AP runs a special IOS-XE-based controller image and can manage a small number of other APs directly, without needing a separate WLC appliance64. This is not the same as running the full IOS-XE operating system as on a switch or router, but it does allow the AP to act as a mini-controller for small deployments.