Cisco Catalyst 9120AXE Wireless Access Point

This model uses Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology combined with Cisco’s dedicated RF ASIC and CleanAir technology. These features work together to mitigate interference and manage high volumes of connected devices, ensuring stable performance even in crowded spaces.

The 9120AXE supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which allows it to receive both data and power through a single Ethernet cable from a compatible switch. If your network infrastructure does not support PoE, you will need to purchase a separate power injector or adapter.

The dedicated IoT radio supports Bluetooth and 802.15.4 protocols, allowing you to connect and manage smart devices directly through the access point. This eliminates the need for separate gateways for your IoT infrastructure, simplifying your network architecture.

The dual 5-GHz radios allow the access point to handle more traffic simultaneously, effectively doubling the capacity for high-speed wireless clients. This is particularly useful in environments where many users are streaming or running bandwidth-intensive applications.

While the 9120AXE functions as a high-performance access point on its own, pairing it with Cisco DNA unlocks advanced features like real-time analytics, automated network management, and enhanced security threat detection. It is recommended for organizations that need centralized control and deep visibility into their network operations.

Beamforming allows the access point to focus the wireless signal directly toward specific connected devices rather than broadcasting in all directions. This results in a stronger, more reliable connection and improved data rates, especially for devices located further away from the unit.