Wireless LAN Controllers without WCS?

[russellhenry]

Im interested in installing a Cisco 4400 series Wireless LAN Controller for up to 12 APs but I am having trouble finding information on the functional\management\configuration differences in using the controller with\without WCS. If anyone can point me in the right direction that would be great. Cheers

[Rob Huffman]

Hi Russell,

There is no comparative doc that explains the differences exactly, but perhaps these will help;

Deploying Cisco 440X Series Wireless LAN Controllers

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/ps6366/prod_technical_reference09186a00806cfa96.html

Managing the Controller with WCS

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/ps6366/prod_technical_reference09186a00806cfa96.html#wp1055452

Cisco Wireless Control System Configuration Guide, Release 4.0

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/ps6305/products_configuration_guide_book09186a00806b57ec.html

Hope this helps!

Rob

[russellhenry]

Thanks for that Rob. I'll have a read at them. Cheers

[johnruffing]

One big difference that the WCS adds (if you order the "with location" version of the WCS) is the ability to assist you in locating rogue APs or Rogue Clients by plotting their likely location on a floorplan. Also, your RF coverage can be displayed in realtime in the form of what Cisco refers to as "heat maps" - where the measured/interpolated RF signals are plotted on the floorplan.

I am also suspecting that the WCS will be necessary for the much-awaited future-feature of the so-called location-based "firewall". This is where the system will prevent RF clients from connecting if they are outside designated RF coverage areas - typically restricting RF clients to connect from within the building.

However, to my knowledge, this feature is not currently available nor has it been confirmed that the WCS will be the mechanism for this, and/or if you would also need to purchase the LCS (Location Appliance) to provide this feature.

Hope this helps...

- John