Cisco 5508 Running Firmware Version 7.6.100.0 having issues with client throughput

[chad]

We have a Cisco 5508 WLC deployed in a highly active wireless area (950 rogue aps detected). Using 1602I aps connected to Cisco 2960S edge switches. The network performance has been been terrible recently. Speeds topping out at .5 Mbps connected to a 100 Mbps circuit. I have read the Cisco best practices guide and not been able to solve to improve the network. Have tested directly plugged into a switch with a laptop and can pull speeds in the 80 range no problem. Looking for any type of adjustments to improve the network quality.

[Scott Fella]

First off, you should upgrade to v7.6.130.0 as that has fixed a lot of issues with the previous code versions of 7.6.  Try that first and then let us know if there is any improvements.

-Scott

[chad]

Thanks for the recommendation. Will update the firmware tonight and see how that impacts the network performance.

[Rasika Nayanajith]

Adding to Scott, once you done the upgrade make sure you do a proper test using different clients & tools like iperf.  This may give some guidance

http://mrncciew.com/2014/08/08/how-fast-is-your-network-iperf/

Also make sure in WLAN configuration

1. WPA2/AES is configured
2. WMM enabled

Also in 802.11a/n (5GHz band) under DCA Channel width set to 40MHz.

Since this AP is 3x3:2 (two spatial stream) max data rate is 300Mbps of the AP in 5GHz, 40MHz channel width & SGI. Depend on your client device capability & number of client connect to that AP client data rate may vary.

Also you need to understand these data rates & throughput result you are getting is two different thing. Due to overheads/RF environment condition typically if you could get 40-70% of data rate as throughput it is really good.

HTH

Rasika

**** Pls rate all useful responses****

[chad]

I have upgraded the firmware and can noticed a performance difference. I have a question about setting the channel width to 40MHz. It looks like 20 is the default when I select 40 the following message pops up: Make sure both primary and extension channels are selected for 40 MHz channel Width. Will this change automatically when I apply the 40 MHz channel? We haven't made any changes to the channels all are set as they would right out of the box.

[Scott Fella]

You have to disable the 5ghz before you can make the change to 40mhz. After you make the change and enable the 5ghz, you will start seeing bonded channels.

-Scott

[George Stefanick]

To add to Scoots comment. Primary and extension means you can't bon say 161 and 40. The channels need to be next to each other. The only difference to this is 802.11ac Wave 2 at 160 Mhz bonding .. you can pick two 80. 

[chad]

Scott thanks for the note on the firmware. That seemed to do it. Do you see any down side to moving up to v8?