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Cisco C9800-L-C-K9 Catalyst 9800-L Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Wireless LAN Controller - 6-Port 2.5/10GbE - Rack-Mountable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
This controller supports the 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) wireless standard across both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, enabling higher capacity and efficiency for dense client environments. The six network ports provide flexible connectivity with support for both 2.5 Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet, allowing for high-speed uplinks and distribution.
Integrated management capabilities include a dedicated management port for out-of-band administration and a USB port for configuration backup or software updates. The controller's architecture is designed for scalability, supporting multiple access points while maintaining consistent policy enforcement and network visibility.
Relevant factors for this section include Wireless LAN Standard, Frequency Band, Ethernet Technology, Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The Catalyst 9800-L delivers enterprise-grade wireless control with the performance and reliability expected from Cisco networking hardware. Its combination of Wi-Fi 6 support, high-speed Ethernet connectivity, and compact form factor makes it a versatile solution for various deployment scenarios.
Wi-Fi 6 Ready
Supports 802.11ax standard for improved throughput, capacity, and power efficiency compared to previous Wi-Fi generations.
- OFDMA for multi-user efficiency
- Target Wake Time for client power savings
- 1024-QAM for higher data rates
High-Speed Connectivity
Six network ports with 2.5GbE and 10GbE support provide ample bandwidth for access point aggregation and network uplinks.
- Flexible port configuration
- Backward compatible with 1GbE
- Suitable for high-density deployments
Enterprise Management
Comprehensive management features through Cisco DNA Center or the embedded web interface for simplified network operations.
- Centralized policy enforcement
- Application visibility and control
- Seamless roaming support
Deployment / Use Cases
The Catalyst 9800-L wireless controller is designed for medium to large enterprise environments requiring reliable, scalable wireless infrastructure. Its rack-mountable form factor and comprehensive feature set make it suitable for various installation scenarios.
Typical deployments include corporate offices, educational campuses, healthcare facilities, and retail environments where consistent wireless performance and centralized management are essential. The controller can manage multiple access points across different locations, providing a unified wireless experience for users and simplified administration for IT teams.
Enterprise Office Deployment
Ideal for corporate environments with high-density client populations requiring reliable Wi-Fi connectivity for productivity applications, video conferencing, and cloud services.
Campus Wireless Networks
Well-suited for educational institutions, healthcare facilities, or large retail spaces where seamless roaming between access points and consistent policy enforcement are critical requirements.
Physical Profile
The controller features a compact 1U rack-mountable design with dimensions of 1.58" height, 8.50" width, and 9.06" depth. Weighing approximately 3.95 pounds, it fits standard 19-inch equipment racks and requires minimal space in data center or wiring closet installations. The front panel includes status indicators and network ports for easy monitoring and connectivity.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 1.58" (40.13 mm), 8.50" (215.90 mm), 9.06" (230.12 mm), 3.95 lb (1791.69 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 8.50" (215.90 mm)
- Depth
- 9.06" (230.12 mm)
- Height
- 1.58" (40.13 mm)
- Weight
- 3.95 lb (1791.69 g)
Highlights
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) wireless standard support
- Dual-band operation on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies
- Six network ports with 2.5GbE and 10GbE capability
- Dedicated management port for administrative access
- USB port for configuration and software management
- Rack-mountable 1U form factor
- Cisco IOS XE operating system for enterprise features
- Centralized management for Catalyst access points
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Systems, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | C9800-L-C-K9 |
| Brand Name | Cisco |
| Product Line | Catalyst |
| Product Model | 9800-L |
| Product Name | Catalyst 9800-L Wireless Controller |
| Product Type | Wireless LAN Controller |
| Technical Information | |
| Wireless LAN Standard | 802.11ax |
| Frequency Band | 2.40 GHz,5 GHz |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Ethernet Technology | 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet,10 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 6 |
| USB | Yes |
| Management Port | Yes |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Rack-mountable |
| Height | 1.58" (40.13 mm) |
| Width | 8.50" (215.90 mm) |
| Depth | 9.06" (230.12 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.95 lb (1791.69 g) |
FAQ
What wireless standard does this controller support?
The Cisco Catalyst 9800-L supports the 802.11ax wireless standard, also known as Wi-Fi 6. This latest generation Wi-Fi technology provides improved efficiency, higher capacity, and better performance in dense client environments compared to previous 802.11ac Wave 2 solutions.
How many network ports does this controller have?
This controller features six RJ-45 network ports that support both 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections. These ports provide flexible connectivity options for uplinks to your network infrastructure and connections to managed access points.
Is this controller rack-mountable?
Yes, the Catalyst 9800-L has a rack-mountable form factor designed for standard 19-inch equipment racks. With a height of 1.58 inches (1U), it fits efficiently in data center, wiring closet, or server room installations where space optimization is important.
What frequency bands does this controller support?
The controller supports dual-band operation on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This allows for flexible deployment scenarios where different bands can be optimized for specific use cases, client types, or coverage requirements within your wireless network.
Does this controller include management capabilities?
Yes, the Catalyst 9800-L includes comprehensive management features through a dedicated management port and support for Cisco DNA Center integration. This enables centralized configuration, policy enforcement, monitoring, and troubleshooting for your entire wireless network infrastructure.
What is the physical size and weight of this controller?
The controller measures 1.58 inches in height, 8.50 inches in width, and 9.06 inches in depth, with an approximate weight of 3.95 pounds. These compact dimensions make it suitable for installation in space-constrained environments while providing full wireless controller functionality.