WLAN Controller

[kumaran pathmanathan]

Hello everyone,

I always thought we need two WLAN controllers for reliable connectivity just in case one controller goes down APs can join the second controller (backup). one of Cisco expert mention that no need for two controllers after APs connect even controller go down APs will continue to work. Can you someone confirm please?
My understanding if controller go down and power recycle APs would be down. Any help would be appreciated. 

Thanks,

Kumaran

[Leo Laohoo · Accepted solution]

I always thought we need two WLAN controllers for reliable connectivity just in case one controller goes down APs can join the second controller (backup).

Correct. 

one of Cisco expert mention that no need for two controllers after APs connect even controller go down APs will continue to work.

IF the APs are in FlexConnect mode (and a local authentication server is present) this is possible as long as the APs are NOT rebooted.  

[kumaran pathmanathan]

Thanks Leo.

FlexConnect mode only applies when WLAN controller over the WAN right?

Most my implementations are local mode (Local WLAN) in that case i should continually recommend 2 controllers for reliability. Any thoughts? 

Thanks,

Kumaran

[Leo Laohoo]

FlexConnect mode only applies when WLAN controller over the WAN right?

FlexConnect was designed for slow WAN connection, so yes. 

Most my implementations are local mode (Local WLAN) in that case i should continually recommend 2 controllers for reliability. Any thoughts?

That depends on how "critical" is wireless defined as part of work.  10 years ago, wireless was deemed as a "child's dream" but nowadays turn off wireless for 30 minutes and someone is going to get "he77" from the boss.  So, redundancy with WLC is a must.  

How many local APs and how many FlexConnect APs are do you have now and planning to have in the next 3 years.  

Be aware a new generation of APs, 2800 & 3800, is slated for announcement soon.