The next generation of Wi-Fi is here; Wi-Fi 6 (also known as 802.11ax), the new standard for Wi-Fi networks, is redefining possibilities for immersive wireless experiences, even in the most demanding environments. From streaming high-definition movies to high bandwidth, low latency mission-critical applications, Wi-Fi 6 provides the capacity, efficiency, coverage, and performance users are coming to expect from wireless networks. With the explosion of Wi-Fi 6 certified IoT devices, laptops, tablets, and smartphones entering the market, most experts expect Wi-Fi 6 will bes the de facto standard by 2020.
Benefits of Wi-Fi 6
Wi-Fi 6 offers substantial technical advancements over current Wi-Fi standards, including lower latency, more efficient data transfer, improved power efficiency, and enhanced performance in high-density wireless environments. A major upgrade from current versions, migrating to Wi-Fi 6 provides a number of compelling benefits, including:
- Higher data rates with peak Gigabit speeds
- Increased capacity and reduced latency to support more users and devices
- Improved performance levels, even in the dense environments
- Robust outdoor network operations
- Improved efficiency and lower latency
- Increased battery life due to lower power consumption
The bottom line is, Wi-Fi 6 can reduce the costs associated with providing Wi-Fi while offering users significantly better experiences. For organizations eager to start deploying Wi-Fi 6, Cisco has introduced new Wi-Fi 6 enabled access points (APs), including the Catalyst 9100 Series and the cloud-managed Cisco Meraki MR45 and MR55 product lines.
Cisco Catalyst 9100 Series Access Points
Cisco Catalyst 9100 Series APs are resilient, provide integrated security along with adaptive and insightful intelligence about your network. Significantly lighter and smaller than previous generations, the new Cisco 9100 Series APs are easier to mount or hang in any deployment environment. Delivering the capacity to connect up to three times more devices than APs supporting earlier Wi-Fi standards and the speed to handle latency-sensitive apps such as voice over IP and video conferencing, the 9100 Series APs will seamlessly handle an abundance of wireless traffic while eliminating bottlenecks.
With models designed for small to medium-sized deployments to the Catalyst 9120, geared for mission-critical enterprise deployments, Cisco Catalyst 9100 Series APs feature superior RF innovations that expand wireless access with intelligence and deliver secure, reliable wireless experiences. When deployed with Cisco 9800 Series wireless controllers, the Catalyst 9100 Series APs can be configured, provisioned, proactively monitored, and optimized using Cisco DNA Center.
Meraki MR45 and MR55 APs
Meraki MR45 and MR55 APs provide exceptional wireless performance in high-density networking environments. These Wi-Fi 6 compatible APs feature 4 dual-band radios for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz coverage, as well as integrated Multigigabit Ethernet ports for throughput speeds up to 5 Gbps. Meraki MR45 and MR55 APs are easily managed through the Meraki Cloud web interface.
Cisco Wireless Controllers for Wi-Fi 6 Enabled WLANs
While Cisco Wi-Fi 6 enabled APs will work with a wide range of Cisco controllers, pairing them with the Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series wireless controller is the ideal combination to ensure your Wi-Fi network provides all the benefits Wi-Fi 6 has to offer. Catalyst 9800 Series controllers feature high availability, enhanced security, and when paired with Cisco DNA Center, advanced analytics providing real-time feedback based on actual network conditions. The Cisco Catalyst 9800 family features several different models that can be deployed anywhere, including the cloud of your choice. With options that range from small campus deployments to deployments that support up to 64,000 clients with 80-Gbps throughput, The Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series has a model that fits your organizational needs.
Migrating to Wi-Fi 6
From improving efficiency and increasing productivity to enabling services that differentiate your organization from your competitors, Wi-Fi 6 represents a significant advancement in wireless technology. It will provide the foundation for a multitude of new mission-critical applications, VoIP and video solutions, and IoT devices while cutting costs and delivering compelling new user experiences. Cisco technology can help smooth your migration to Wi-Fi 6. With products continually evolving to meet the demands of emerging technologies and services, Cisco is at the forefront of the Wi-Fi 6 revolution.
The time to start evaluating and planning for Wi-Fi 6 is now. From initial WLAN readiness assessment to implementation, full solution support, and in-depth training, Cerium Networks is a Cisco Gold Partner you can rely on to provide expert guidance. We can help you plan, deploy, manage, and support your new Wi-Fi 6 enabled WLAN infrastructure. With unmatched networking expertise, best practices, and innovative tools, Cerium will minimize disruptions to your organization while maximizing the value you receive from your Cisco infrastructure.
