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Cisco AIR-CT5520-K9-RF 5520 Wireless LAN Controller - IEEE 802. 11ac Dual-Band - 2 x Gigabit Ethernet - Rack-Mountable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This controller leverages IEEE 802.11ac technology to manage wireless networks with enhanced throughput and performance. It operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, providing flexibility for client devices and reducing interference in crowded RF environments.
Connectivity is handled through two network ports supporting Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet standards, ensuring compatibility with various network speeds and facilitating integration into existing wired infrastructures. The dedicated management port allows for out-of-band administration, simplifying network setup and ongoing maintenance tasks.
This section brings together practical product details such as Wireless LAN Standard, Frequency Band, Ethernet Technology, Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
A strong technical summary explains how the product's interfaces, hardware profile, and operating characteristics work together in real deployment. Buyers often need this context to confirm compatibility with existing devices, expected performance in daily use, and whether installation will be straightforward for IT staff or end users.
Key Product Advantages
The Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller offers centralized control and streamlined management for enterprise wireless networks, reducing administrative overhead and enhancing operational efficiency.
These strengths make the product easier to deploy and manage in real environments, especially where reliability, usability, and day-to-day operational continuity matter. Notable benefits include Centralized Network Management, Dual-Band Wi-Fi Support.
Centralized Network Management
Provides efficient control over the setup and configuration of your wireless network, enabling administrators to manage multiple access points from a single interface.
- Simplifies deployment and monitoring
- Reduces configuration errors
- Enables consistent policy enforcement
Dual-Band Wi-Fi Support
Operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, offering flexibility for legacy and modern client devices while optimizing network performance and reducing congestion.
- Supports a wide range of devices
- Improves network reliability
- Enhances overall throughput
Deployment / Use Cases
The Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller is ideal for medium to large enterprise environments requiring scalable and manageable Wi-Fi infrastructure. It serves as the central brain for Cisco wireless access points, coordinating connectivity and security across multiple locations.
Common deployment scenarios include corporate offices, educational campuses, healthcare facilities, and retail spaces where reliable wireless access and centralized management are critical. Its rack-mountable design makes it suitable for data centers or network closets, supporting integration into existing IT infrastructure without requiring additional floor space.
Enterprise Office Networks
Manages wireless access for employees and guests across multiple floors or buildings, ensuring consistent connectivity and security policies.
Campus-Wide Wi-Fi
Coordinates access points across large areas like universities or corporate parks, providing seamless roaming and centralized monitoring.
Physical Profile
Designed for standard rack installations, the controller features a compact 1U height profile with dimensions of 1.70" (43.18 mm) height, 30.98" (786.89 mm) width, and 18.98" (482.09 mm) depth. Its robust construction supports a weight of approximately 13.61 kg, ensuring durability in data center environments. The rack-mountable form factor allows for efficient use of space in network cabinets, facilitating organized cable management and easy access for maintenance.
- Width
- 30.98" (786.89 mm)
- Depth
- 18.98" (482.09 mm)
- Height
- 1.70" (43.18 mm)
- Weight
- 13.61 kg
Highlights
- IEEE 802.11ac wireless standard for enhanced throughput and performance
- Dual-band operation on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies
- Two network ports supporting Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet
- Dedicated management port for out-of-band administration
- Rack-mountable 1U form factor for data center integration
- Centralized control for Cisco wireless access points
- Refurbished condition with tested reliability
- Compatible with Cisco 5500 series product family
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Systems, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | AIR-CT5520-K9-RF |
| Brand Name | Cisco |
| Product Series | 5500 |
| Product Model | 5520 |
| Product Name | 5520 Wireless Controller |
| Product Condition | Refurbished |
| Product Type | Wireless LAN Controller |
| Technical Information | |
| Wireless LAN Standard | IEEE 802.11ac |
| Frequency Band | 2.40 GHz,5 GHz |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Ethernet Technology | Ethernet,Fast Ethernet,Gigabit Ethernet |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 2 |
| PoE (RJ-45) Port | No |
| VGA | No |
| HDMI | No |
| USB | No |
| Powerline | No |
| Management Port | Yes |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Rack-mountable |
| Height | 1.70" (43.18 mm) |
| Width | 30.98" (786.89 mm) |
| Depth | 18.98" (482.09 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 13.61 kg |
User Manual
FAQ
What wireless standard does the Cisco 5520 controller support?
The Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller supports the IEEE 802.11ac wireless standard. This standard provides improved throughput and performance compared to earlier Wi-Fi generations, making it suitable for modern enterprise networks with high-density client environments and bandwidth-intensive applications.
Does this controller support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands?
Yes, the controller operates on dual-band frequencies, specifically 2.40 GHz and 5 GHz. This dual-band support allows it to manage wireless networks across both spectrums, providing flexibility for legacy devices on 2.4 GHz and higher-performance connections on 5 GHz, which helps reduce interference and optimize network capacity.
How many Ethernet ports are available on the Cisco 5520?
The controller features two network (RJ-45) ports. These ports support Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet technologies, enabling connectivity to wired networks for data transfer and integration with existing infrastructure. The ports facilitate communication between the controller and access points or upstream network switches.
Is the Cisco 5520 controller rack-mountable?
Yes, the controller has a rack-mountable form factor designed for standard 19-inch rack installations. With a height of 1.70 inches (1U), it fits efficiently into data center or network closet racks, allowing for organized deployment and easy access alongside other networking equipment.
What is the purpose of the management port on this controller?
The management port provides dedicated out-of-band administration capabilities for the controller. It allows network administrators to efficiently set up, configure, and monitor the wireless network without interfering with data traffic, simplifying initial deployment and ongoing maintenance tasks for improved operational control.
What is the product condition of this Cisco 5520 controller?
This Cisco 5520 Wireless LAN Controller is in refurbished condition. Refurbished products undergo testing and reconditioning to ensure they meet functional standards, offering a cost-effective option for enterprises seeking reliable networking hardware with performance comparable to new units.
Does the product support PoE or wireless networking?
Connectivity support is listed in the product specifications, including the relevant wireless or port options when available.