Cisco Catalyst C9115I 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point

The Cisco Catalyst C9115I 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point is engineered to meet the demanding needs of modern networks, delivering exceptional wireless performance in dense environments. Built for IoT proliferation, high device density, and mission-critical applications, this Wi‑Fi 6 access point combines cutting-edge technology with reliable Cisco security and management. Expect higher throughput, lower latency, and smarter spectrum use that keeps voice, video, and data applications running smoothly even in challenging enterprise layouts. With Cisco’s heritage of enterprise-grade reliability and seamless integration into existing networks, the C9115I is a forward-looking backbone for modern campuses, hospitals, retail spaces, and corporate facilities. Its 802.11ax foundation enables better efficiency, more deterministic performance, and smarter energy usage for connected devices, helping IT teams deliver a superior user experience across every corner of the building.

• Ultra-efficient Wi‑Fi 6 performance: Powered by 802.11ax, the C9115I leverages OFDMA and MU-MIMO to increase overall network capacity and improve performance in high-density areas. This translates to faster real-world speeds for mobile devices, laptops, and critical business applications even when hundreds of devices are competing for air time.
• High-density device support for IoT and mobile users: Designed to handle the surge of connected devices—from smartphones and laptops to sensors and wearables—while maintaining reliable service for essential business apps. The Intelligent RF management helps minimize interference and optimize channel usage in crowded environments.
• Enterprise-grade security and streamlined onboarding: Built with robust security in mind, including enterprise-grade encryption and secure onboarding processes. Seamless policy enforcement and integration with existing authentication services help protect the network without sacrificing user experience.
• Flexible, future-ready networking: Multi-gig Ethernet uplink capabilities and scalable design enable you to grow your wireless footprint as bandwidth needs rise. The C9115I supports versatile deployment options, ensuring your investment remains valuable as your network evolves.
• Centralized management and policy-driven control: Integrates with Cisco’s management ecosystem to deliver policy-based administration, monitoring, and analytics. Site-wide visibility, automated firmware updates, and consistent configuration across APs simplify operations and accelerate network teaming.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst C9115I 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point

• Standard: 802.11ax (Wi‑Fi 6) for improved efficiency and performance in dense environments.
• Aggregate throughput: Up to 5.38 Gbps combined across the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, delivering strong speeds for demanding business apps.
• Frequency bands: Dual-band operation with support for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz to balance coverage and capacity across the workspace.
• Antenna and radio features: Supports OFDMA and MU‑MIMO for scalable throughput and better spectrum reuse; designed to optimize airtime and reduce contention in crowded deployments.
• Security and access control: Enterprise-grade security with encryption, secure onboarding, and integration with identity services to enforce policies across the network.
• Management and analytics: Compatible with Cisco DNA Center for centralized policy, monitoring, analytics, and automated operations to simplify large-scale deployments.
• Uplink and power options: Flexible power and uplink options to support efficient deployment; designed for PoE-enabled networks to simplify installation and reduce cabling.
• Form factor and mounting: Compact indoor access point suitable for ceiling or wall mounting, engineered for discreet integration into modern office spaces.
• Reliability and efficiency: Built with enterprise-grade components and thermal design to ensure stable performance under load and extended operation in busy networks.

How to install Cisco Catalyst C9115I 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point

To get the most from the C9115I, follow these practical deployment steps designed for fast, reliable setup and optimal performance:

• Plan your placement: Map high-traffic areas, conference rooms, open workspaces, and dense zones to balance coverage. Avoid physical obstructions, microwaves, and devices that could cause interference. Consider ceiling mounting for best RF distribution and roaming performance.
• Prepare power and cabling: Use PoE or PoE+ capable switches to reduce clutter and simplify installation. Run category cable to the mounting location, ensuring the path provides clean power delivery and a stable uplink connection.
• Mount the access point: Secure the C9115I to the chosen ceiling or wall mount, following manufacturers’ instructions. Ensure the unit has proper clearance for ventilation and airflow to prevent thermal throttling during peak usage.
• Connect and power up: Connect the Ethernet uplink to the network and apply power. Allow the unit to boot and perform initial self-checks, which typically complete quickly in enterprise environments.
• Initial configuration and policy: Access the local management portal or use Cisco DNA Center for centralized configuration. Create SSIDs with appropriate security (e.g., WPA3), define RF profiles, and apply policy-based controls to ensure consistent security and performance across all APs.
• Optimize and validate: Run a basic site survey to verify coverage, adjust RF settings (channel, power, and bandwidth), enable features such as OFDMA/TWT as appropriate, and monitor the network for client behavior, handoff performance, and interference.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the key benefit of Wi‑Fi 6 in the C9115I? It delivers higher efficiency and capacity in dense environments through OFDMA, MU‑MIMO, and targeted wake time, which improves performance for both mobility and IoT devices while reducing power consumption on client devices.
• Can the C9115I be managed centrally? Yes. It supports Cisco’s centralized management solutions, including DNA Center, to streamline policy enforcement, monitoring, and software updates across a large fleet of access points.
• What kind of uplink does it require? The C9115I is designed to work with standard enterprise switches and PoE infrastructure, offering flexible uplink options to match your network’s bandwidth needs and simplify installation.
• Is this access point secure? Absolutely. It offers enterprise-grade security features, secure onboarding, and integration with identity services to enforce access policies and protect sensitive data as users connect to the network.
• Is installation complicated for a large campus? Not with proper planning and management tooling. The C9115I supports scalable deployment, centralized configuration, and automated firmware management to reduce manual work on large-scale projects.
• What environments is the C9115I best suited for? It is ideal for high-density office spaces, campuses, healthcare facilities, retail locations, and other enterprises requiring robust wireless performance and reliable coverage.