Cisco Catalyst C9120AXI 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point

The Cisco Catalyst 9120AXI Series sets a new standard for enterprise wireless with robust performance, advanced security, and intelligent management for today’s always-connected organizations. Built around the power of Wi‑Fi 6 (802.11ax), this access point delivers up to 5.38 Gbps of aggregate data rate to support dense deployments, high client counts, and bandwidth-intensive applications. Designed for resilient networks, the Catalyst 9120AXI family integrates seamlessly into Cisco’s leadership in security, analytics, and policy-driven network management, making it a reliable backbone for campuses, hospitals, financial institutions, and enterprise campuses that demand both speed and reliability.

• High-performance wireless connectivity: The Cisco Catalyst 9120AXI leverages 802.11ax technology to deliver higher throughput, better spectral efficiency, and lower latency in crowded environments. With OFDMA and MU‑MIMO, it divides channels more efficiently among multiple client devices, enabling smoother video conferencing, real-time collaboration, cloud applications, and IoT workloads. The access point also benefits from Target Wake Time (TWT), which extends battery life for IoT devices and mobile clients while saving energy on a busy campus network. Expect robust performance whether you’re saturating classrooms, modern offices, or dense retail spaces, with reliable coverage and seamless roaming as users move between access points.
• Integrated security and reliability: Security is a core focus for the Catalyst 9120AXI. The access point supports modern authentication and encryption standards, including WPA3, in addition to enterprise-grade security measures such as secure boot, image signing, and tamper resistance. Cisco’s security ecosystem helps protect user data and control planes, while real-time threat analytics and policy enforcement help isolate compromised devices and mitigate risk across the wireless network. This combination of hardware and software security provides a safer, more resilient wireless foundation for sensitive business operations and regulated environments.
• Intelligent visibility and management: Management and analytics are central to operating at scale. The 9120AXI is designed to be Cisco DNA Center‑ready, supporting intent-based networking, policy automation, and centralized analytics. IT teams gain actionable insights into client behavior, application performance, and RF health, enabling proactive troubleshooting and faster problem resolution. The access point’s real-time monitoring helps optimize coverage, minimize interference, and improve user experiences by enabling dynamic adjustments to radio settings and traffic shaping based on evolving network conditions.
• Flexible deployment and power options: Built for diverse environments, the 9120AXI supports flexible mounting options (ceiling or wall) and is designed to operate in enterprise spaces with minimal footprint. It is compatible with Power over Ethernet (PoE+) (IEEE 802.3at), reducing the need for separate power cabling and simplifying deployment in new builds or upgrades. For sites without PoE+, optional power solutions and mounting accessories provide adaptable installation paths. The rugged yet compact chassis is engineered for long-term reliability in office floors, conference venues, and healthcare facilities, delivering consistent performance with straightforward maintenance.
• Future-proof, scalable architecture: As networks evolve, the Catalyst 9120AXI family is designed to scale with your organization. With features aligned to enterprise-grade security, policy-based access, and seamless integration with Cisco’s broader ecosystem, these access points help future-proof your wireless LAN investments. They support a lifecycle of software updates and feature enhancements that extend the usable life of your deployment, while maintaining compatibility with existing Cisco security appliances and network management tools. This makes it an ideal cornerstone for campus-wide expansions, hybrid work models, and data-driven environments that rely on consistently fast, secure wireless access.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst C9120AXI 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point

• Wireless technology: 802.11ax (Wi‑Fi 6) with dual-band operation for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
• Max data rate: Up to 5.38 Gbps aggregate throughput
• Antenna configuration: Internal antennas designed for reliable indoor coverage; supports flexible RF engineering to optimize coverage patterns
• RF features: OFDMA, MU‑MIMO, TX power control, BSS Coloring, and Target Wake Time (TWT) for energy efficiency
• Security: WPA2/WPA3 support, secure boot, image signing, and enterprise-grade security controls for role-based access
• Power: Power over Ethernet (PoE+) support for simplified installation (IEEE 802.3at); optional power solutions available
• Management: Cisco DNA Center integration for intent-based networking, policy automation, and analytics; compatible with Cisco ISE for secure access control
• Operating environment: Indoor enterprise-grade AP designed for high-density environments; suitable for offices, campuses, hospitals, and retail spaces
• Certifications: Regulatory certifications appropriate for global deployments (FCC, CE, and others as applicable)

How to install Cisco Catalyst C9120AXI 802.11ax 5.38 Gbit/s Wireless Access Point

• Step 1 — Plan and prepare: Assess your space with a site survey to determine the number of APs required, optimal mounting locations, and channel plan. Ensure network switches provide PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) or plan for suitable powered options, and verify that you have access to Cisco DNA Center or a compatible management environment for streamlined configuration and monitoring.
• Step 2 — Install hardware: Mount the AP securely on the ceiling or wall using the included mounting kit. Ensure adequate airflow around the device and avoid obstructions that could impede RF coverage. If additional antennas or enclosures are needed for your deployment, install them per Cisco’s mounting guidelines.
• Step 3 — Connect to power and network: Connect the AP to a PoE+ capable switch or power injector. Verify link status and basic network connectivity. Confirm that the AP is reachable on the management network for initial configuration.
• Step 4 — Initial configuration: Use the Cisco DNA Center interface or a supported controller to adopt the AP, assign it to the appropriate site, and apply a baseline configuration. Set SSIDs, security policies (WPA3/WPA2), VLAN tagging, and roaming preferences. Review radio settings to optimize coverage based on the site survey and interference environment.
• Step 5 — Validate, optimize, and monitor: Run a coverage and performance test to confirm throughput, latency, and roaming behavior. Use the management platform to monitor RF health, client distribution, and interference. Fine-tune channel assignments, transmission power, and minimum data rate settings as needed to maintain a consistent user experience across the deployment.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What wireless standard does the Cisco Catalyst C9120AXI support? A: It supports 802.11ax (Wi‑Fi 6), delivering higher efficiency and throughput for modern enterprise networks.
• Q: What is the maximum data rate of this access point? A: The device offers up to 5.38 Gbps aggregate throughput, enabling fast application performance for dense environments.
• Q: Does the C9120AXI support PoE? A: Yes, it supports Power over Ethernet (PoE+) to simplify deployment, reduce cabling, and enable flexible placement.
• Q: Can I manage this access point with Cisco DNA Center? A: Yes, the Catalyst 9120AXI is designed to be DNA Center-ready for centralized policy, automation, and analytics, though standalone configurations are also possible if needed.
• Q: Is this access point suitable for outdoor deployments? A: The C9120AXI is intended for indoor enterprise environments. For outdoor or harsh environments, Cisco offers ruggedized or weatherized options within the Catalyst family or appropriate outdoor AP solutions.