Replacement of AIR-CAP2602 at virtual WLC with 9105AXI

[bob7]

We currently have a virtual wireless controller with AIR-CAP2602 distributed over several locations. We would now like to replace this with the 9105 AXI. A parallel migration does not appear to be possible because virtual Wireless Controller support for 2602 ends with 8.5 and 9105 is only possible with 8.10. Is that correct, or is there a way to parallel operation during the transition period?

Since the virtual Wireless Controller will also end in a few years' time: in addition to switching to an on-premise hardware controller, is a central setup comparable to the vWLC possible, e.g. cloud-based or on a central access point? If so, what would have to be done when purchasing a 9105AXI?

[Arshad Safrulla]

I do not see an option where both 9105 and 2602 can co-exist in one controller. If you have HA setup, I would say break HA, upgrade 1 controller to 8.10.X and prime the 9105 AP's to join the WLC running 8.10.X. Once all the AP's are replaced upgrade the WLC running 8.5.X to match the WLC running 8.10.X. Then you can decide whether to run N+1 or SSO.

Or else you can go 9800-CL where the VM appliance is FOC, but you have to pay for support and AIR-DNA Advantage or Essentials per AP. This can be deployed in Public cloud or private cloud provided that u provide the required compute resources. 

[bob7]

Hi,
many thanks for the fast reply.
FOC (Free of Charge)?
After the first point has been clarified (no cluster, so no smooth transition):
What is the difference between AIR-DNA Advantage and Essentials.
Is a config migration from wlc to 9800-CL possible?
and is there an approximate price as a size guide for support, AIR-DNA advantage / essential per AP?
BR

[Arshad Safrulla · Accepted solution]

For most of the use cases essentails should be sufficient. You can do the comparison for licenses below.

https://www.cisco.com/c/m/en_us/products/software/dna-subscription-wireless/en-sw-sub-matrix-wireless.html?oid=porew018984

9800-CL is offered Free of charge. Migration from any previous generation WLC is possible. For pricing reach out to your Cisco partner or Cisco SE. 

[Rich R]

The 9800-CL itself is free of charge but you must buy support with it if you want access to TAC or software updates.

And you are still expected to have a DNA license per AP.

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless/catalyst-9800-series-wireless-controllers/215635-licensing-on-9800-wireless-lan-controlle.html#anc1