2.4/5GHz(4×4) RF OFDMA MU-MIMO Multi-Gbit, IoT ready, Wi-Fi6 Bluetooth 5(BLE), LED, 1 x 100, 1000, 2500 RJ-45 1 x console port (RJ-45) 1 x USB 2.0 @3.75W, (W)216mm, 1.36kg,
Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series. Maximum data transfer rate: 5000 Mbit/s, Maximum data transfer rate (2.4 GHz): 2500 Mbit/s, Maximum data transfer rate (5 GHz): 5000 Mbit/s. Security algorithms: AES, EAP, EAP-GTC, EAP-SIM, MSCHAPv2, TLS, TTLS, WPA, WPA2, WPA3. WAN connection: (RJ-45), Mobile network (SIM), Wi-Fi. Placement: Ceiling, Floor, Table, Product colour: . Antenna type: Internal & external, Antenna direction type: Omni-directional, Antenna features: Detachable antenna
Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series
We are more dependent on our wireless networks than ever before. Additional devices connect to the network every year and the Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series Access Points will provide a seamless experience anywhere for everyone. Going beyond the Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard, the 9120AX Series provides integrated security, resiliency, and operational flexibility as well as increased network intelligence.
Extending Cisco’s intent-based network and perfect for networks of all sizes, the Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series scales to the growing demands of IoT while fully supporting the latest innovations and new technologies. Not only that, but the 9120AX Series is the leader in performance, security, and analytics.
The Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series Access Points, paired with Cisco DNA, are enterprise-class products that will address your current and future needs. These access points are the first step in updating your network so that you can take better advantage of all of the features and benefits that Wi-Fi 6 provides.
The Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series Access Points support both Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) and multiuser Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MU-MIMO), delivering more predictable performance for advanced applications and IoT. Additionally, with up to 2.5 Gbps with NBASE-T and IEEE 802.3bz compatibility, the 9120AX Series can seamlessly offload network traffic without any bottlenecks. With Cisco’s Multi technology, you can use your existing Category 5e or 6 cabling to achieve speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, allowing for higher throughputs with minimum cost. And with different antenna choices, you’re able to decide which option works best for you.
With the 9120AX Series, you can secure remote workers or the micro-office. Any Cisco Aironet or Catalyst access point can function as an OfficeExtend Access Point (OEAP). With an OEAP, an employee at home or in a temporary micro-office will have access to the corporate SSID and the corporate network without the need to set up a VPN or have any advanced technical know-how.
Cisco User Defined Network, a feature available in Cisco DNA Center, allows IT to give end users control of their very own wireless network partition on a shared network. End users can then remotely and securely deploy their devices on this network. Perfect for university dormitories or extended hospital stays, Cisco User Defined Network grants both device security and control, allowing each user to choose who can connect to their network. (Available second half of calendar year 2020.)
The Wi-Fi 6 readiness dashboard is a new dashboard in the Assurance menu of Cisco DNA Center. It will look through the inventory of all devices on the network and verify device, software, and client compatibility with the new Wi-Fi 6 standard. After upgrading, advanced wireless analytics will indicate performance and capacity gains as a result of the Wi-Fi 6 deployment. This is an incredible tool that will help your team define where and how the wireless network should be upgraded. It will also give you insights into the access point distribution by protocol (802.11 ac/n/abg), wireless airtime efficiency by protocol, and granular performance metrics.
Resilient – steady performance in demanding environments
Network infrastructure that upgrades to Wi-Fi 6 enables devices to get up to a 4x capacity boost to support the additional devices connected to the network as well as the data that they generate. Wi-Fi 6 will offer Multi performance, with seamless connectivity and higher throughput compared to the 802.11ac standard. This means you’ll see your network run more smoothly. With support for BSS coloring, the new standard eases high-density environments by allowing simultaneous transmissions, ultimately increasing network capacity, customer interactions, and value-add services. BSS coloring allows the limited channels in the 2.4 GHz band to have better spectral reuse, benefiting IoT and 2.4-GHz clients.
Wi-Fi 6, with better coordination of transit time to and from devices, will also bring about a reduction in latency and a greater reliability, allowing for hundreds of devices per access point. This allows for IoT devices to be reliably deployed at scale. And an overall improved user experience will be seen as well, as Wi-Fi 6 will improve the battery life of devices such as smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices when compared to prior standards. For more details about Wi-Fi 6, please see Cisco’s technical paper on Wi-Fi 6.
Secure infrastructure
Trustworthy systems built with Cisco Trust Anchor Technologies provide a highly secure foundation for Cisco products. With the Cisco Catalyst 9100 Access Points, these technologies enable hardware and software authenticity assurance for supply chain trust and strong mitigation against man-in-the-middle attacks that compromise software and firmware. Trust Anchor capabilities include:
● Image signing: Cryptographically signed images provide assurance that the firmware, BIOS, and other software are authentic and unmodified. As the system boots, the system’s software signatures are checked for integrity.
● Secure Boot: Cisco Secure Boot technology anchors the boot sequence chain of trust to immutable hardware, mitigating threats against a system’s foundational state and the software that is to be loaded, regardless of a user’s privilege level. It provides layered protection against the persistence of illicitly modified firmware.
● Cisco Trust Anchor module: A tamper-resistant, strong cryptographic, single-chip solution provides hardware authenticity assurance to uniquely identify the product so that its origin can be confirmed to Cisco. This provides assurance that the product is genuine.
Aesthetically redesigned for next-generation enterprise
The Cisco Catalyst 9100 Access Points are built from the ground up, with a new aerodynamic look and smooth finish, integrating RF excellence and next generation technologies to provide a best-in-class wireless experience without compromise. While packing several high-performance features, the hardware is redesigned to deliver higher efficiencies in a more compact form factor to make visually appealing Wi-Fi deployments commonplace.
Cisco DNA support
Pairing the Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series Access Points with Cisco DNA allows for a total network transformation. Cisco DNA allows you to truly understand your network with real-time analytics, quickly detect and contain security threats, and easily provide networkwide consistency through automation and virtualization.
Cisco DNA with Software-Defined Access (SD-Access) is the network fabric that powers business. It is an open and extensible, software-driven architecture that accelerates and simplifies your enterprise network operations. The programmable architecture frees your IT staff from time-consuming, repetitive network configuration tasks so they can focus instead on innovation that positively transforms your business. By decoupling network functions from the hardware, you can build and manage your entire wired and wireless network from a single user interface. SD-Access enables policy-based automation from edge to cloud with foundational capabilities. These include:
● Simplified device deployment
● Unified management of wired and wireless networks
● Network virtualization and segmentation
● Group-based policies
● Context-based analytics
The Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series Access Points support Software-Defined Access, Cisco’s leading enterprise architecture.
Working together, the Cisco Catalyst 9120AX Series and Cisco DNA offer such features as:
● Cisco DNA Spaces
● Cisco Identity Services Engine
● Cisco DNA Analytics and Assurance
The result? Your network stays relevant, becomes digital ready, and is the lifeblood of your organization.
Full specifications for this model are listed below.
| Weight | 3 kg |
|---|---|
| Flash memory | 1024 MB |
| Product Condition | New Retail |
| Internal memory | 2048 MB |
| USB 2.0 ports quantity | 1 |
| WAN connection | Ethernet (RJ-45), Mobile network (SIM), Wi-Fi |
| pa_i_ethernetlanrj4_2312_1 | 1 |
| Weight | 1.36 kg |
| Power over Ethernet (PoE) | Yes |
| AC adapter included | Yes |
| Operating altitude | 0 – 3000 m |
| Operating relative humidity (H-H) | 10 – 90% |
| Operating temperature (T-T) | -20 – 50 °C |
| Storage temperature (T-T) | -39 – 70 °C |
| Ethernet LAN data rates | 100,1000,2500,5000 Mbit/s |
| Security algorithms | AES, EAP, EAP-GTC, EAP-SIM, MSCHAPv2, TLS, TTLS, WPA, WPA2, WPA3 |
| Channels quantity | 29 channels |
| Antenna gain level (max) | 6 dBi |
| Antenna type | Internal & external |
| Antenna connector type | RP-TNC |
| Non-operating altitude | 0 – 4572 m |
| Height | 51 mm |
| Networking standards | IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11ac, IEEE 802.11ax, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11d, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11h, IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at |
| Antennas quantity | 4 |
| Depth | 216 mm |
| Width | 216 mm |
| Firmware upgradeable | Yes |
| Product colour | White |
| Number of connectors | 2 |
| Placement | Ceiling, Floor, Table |
| PoE adapter included | Yes |
| CD manual | Yes |
| On/off switch | Yes |
| Syslog | Yes |
| Internal RJ-45 ports quantity | 1 |
| Number of products included | 1 pc(s) |
| MIMO | Yes |
| MIMO type | Multi User MIMO |
| Maximum data transfer rate (2.4 GHz) | 2500 Mbit/s |
| Maximum data transfer rate (5 GHz) | 5000 Mbit/s |
| Antenna direction type | Omni-directional |
| Antenna design | Detachable antenna |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 |
| Harmonized System (HS) code | 85176990 |
Our specialists are here to help assess compatibility, compare suitable alternatives, or talk through your configuration needs before committing to a solution.
Contact us today for a no-obligation chat.
Below you’ll find alternative models, suitable software and services that pair with this solution – helping you to avoid compatibility issues, reduce support overhead and deploy with confidence.
Not all deployments fit standard configurations. If you’re weighing up options or want a second opinion on your setup, our team is here to help with honest, straightforward advice backed by decades of vendor knowledge.
Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series (C9500) switches are purpose-built fixed core and aggregation switches for enterprises and data centres. The C9500 family leads the Catalyst 9000 line with high throughput, advanced programmability, and enterprise-grade resiliency, making it a foundation for campus core and distribution layers.
As a trusted Cisco partner, we bring decades of expertise in networking and security solutions. Our team has an extensive technical understanding of Cisco’s product portfolio – enabling us to assess, integrate, and optimise solutions for even the most complex or high-demand environments.
Expert guidance for the right fit
We don’t just sell IT hardware. Every Cisco solution we recommend is assessed against your specific security concerns, performance requirements, and both current and future infrastructure plans. This consultative approach ensures that our guidance is aligned with your bespoke needs, so that you can invest in new network switches with complete confidence.
Exclusive access and strategic advantages
Through our partnership with Cisco, your business will gain access to partner-only promotions, bundled solutions, and live demos. Combined with our technical expertise and ongoing support, this ensures your hardware is secure, cost-optimised, and future-ready.
Expert Networking Services
When you buy Cisco hardware from Steel City Consulting, you’ll receive expert deployment and maximum benefits. We also provide support in the following specialist areas:
| Our service | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Networking Design & Installation |
+ Custom architecture aligned to your business goals + Scalable networks built for growth + Expert installation with minimal disruption to operations + 30-day support window post-installation |
| Network Management & Support |
+ Real-time performance and traffic monitoring + Network design tools for scaling and upgrades + Security alerting and incident response + Backup and failover strategy implementation |
| WiFi Site Surveys |
+ Heatmapping and signal analysis + Access point optimisation + Detailed reports and tailored recommendations + Security enhancements and interference mitigation |
| Business Fibre & FTTP Installation |
+ Up to 1Gbps dedicated bandwidth + Private and uncontended connections + Seamless installation and expert aftercare + 24/7 support and monitoring |
Through Cisco’s Capital Finance and Flexible Payment Solutions, we help enterprises and data centres fund new initiatives in ways that fit both IT and business priorities.
Speak with our team today to explore how Cisco financing can help to launch your next IT project sooner.
Cisco Refresh gives you access to certified remanufactured equipment that performs like new and has the same warranty, but at a lower cost and environmental impact.
Cisco Refresh must be purchased via authorised partners like Steel City Consulting. Ask us to check Cisco Refresh stock availability and provide a cost comparison for your next upgrade or expansion project today.
As a certified partner, we provide access to Cisco promotions that reduce upfront spend and accelerate upgrades.
When you work with us, we can bundle and stack multiple offers, navigate application processes, and secure pricing that often isn’t accessible without a Cisco partner. Visit our promotions hub for current Cisco offers and to discuss your eligibility
Cisco offers a wide portfolio of subscription-based services that enhance visibility, security, and operational resilience across enterprise and data center networks.
With the right combination of platforms and licenses, you can simplify management, protect critical infrastructure, and unlock advanced analytics. Explore Cisco service options below.
What is Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)?
Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is a network access control (NAC) platform that delivers secure, identity-based access for users and devices across wired, wireless, and VPN connections. It provides centralised policy control and is a foundation for Zero Trust networking.
| ISE Licenses | Features | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Essentials | Basic access control, guest services, device visibility. | Ensure every device on your network is identified and authenticated. |
| Advantage | Advanced policy, posture assessment, and integration with threat intelligence. | Improve compliance and security with centralised, automated enforcement. |
| Premier | Includes all Advantage features plus profiling, segmentation, and advanced integrations. | Enable full Zero Trust and protect against lateral movement in hybrid networks. |
Why work with a Cisco partner?
Licensing can be complex. Our team ensures you select the right tier for your needs, integrate successfully with Catalyst/Nexus environments, and deploy ISE to full effect.
What is Cisco ThousandEyes?
Cisco ThousandEyes is a subscription-based digital experience monitoring platform that provides visibility into every network and application path your users rely on. It integrates directly with Catalyst 9000 switches for built-in observability.
| ThousandEyes Subscriptions | Features | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Enterprise Agents | Continuous visibility from on-prem, data centre, or cloud environments. | Identify bottlenecks and resolve connectivity issues proactively. |
| Endpoint Agents | Monitors end-user devices and SaaS application performance. | Improve employee experience across hybrid work and cloud applications. |
| Internet Insights (Add-on) | Aggregated visibility into global Internet, BGP, and SaaS outages. | Anticipate issues beyond your own network and mitigate before users are impacted. |
Why work with a Cisco partner?
ThousandEyes is most powerful when integrated with your switching and WAN environments. We ensure correct deployment and monitoring that aligns with your business-critical SLAs.
What is Cisco SMARTnet (Smart Net Total Care)?
Cisco SMARTnet is a support and maintenance subscription that ensures critical Catalyst and Nexus infrastructure is always supported, patched, and covered by hardware replacement SLAs.
| SMARTnet Service Levels | Features | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Next Business Day | Replacement hardware shipped by the next business day. | Cost-effective option for less critical infrastructure. |
| 4-Hour Onsite | 24/7 support with 4-hour onsite replacement. | Minimise downtime for mission-critical switches and data centre infrastructure. |
| 2-Hour Onsite | 24/7 support with 2-hour replacement (where available). | Protect core network services with the fastest recovery option. |
Why work with a Cisco partner?
SMARTnet can only be purchased via authorised partners. Our role is to ensure you receive the right coverage, rapid hardware replacement, and lifecycle insights.
What is Cisco DNA Software for Switching?
Cisco DNA Software subscriptions deliver advanced automation, assurance, and security for Catalyst switching environments. Licenses are purchased per-switch and unlock software-defined capabilities.
| DNA License Tiers | Features | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Essentials | Basic automation, software image management, and telemetry. | Simplify device management with centralised updates and monitoring. |
| Advantage | Adds policy-based automation, assurance, and security integrations. | Automate provisioning and reduce manual configuration errors. |
| Premier | Includes Advantage features plus full SD-Access with advanced segmentation. | Enable Zero Trust and simplify policy deployment across the entire fabric. |
Why work with a Cisco partner?
We ensure DNA licenses are aligned to your hardware refresh cycles and future requirements—so you avoid overspending while unlocking maximum value
Talk to a certified Cisco expert. We’ll help you choose the right combination of hardware, licenses, and services.
Upgrading to C9500 network switches? Our FAQ answers 6 common questions.
Q1. What are the main advantages of moving from Catalyst 6800 or C4500 to the C9500?
Catalyst 9500 delivers significantly higher port speeds (10/25/40/100G vs 1/10G on older platforms) and greater route scale (up to 2M IPv4 entries). Plus, support for modern overlays such as EVPN and VXLAN, and tighter integration with Cisco DNA Center for automation. This positions the C9500 as both a direct successor and a long-term platform for campus and aggregation roles.
Q2. How does the Cisco C9500 compare to C3850 and C4500-X-LE switches?
| Factor | Catalyst 9500 | Catalyst 3850 / 4500-X-LE |
|---|---|---|
| Switching capacity | Up to 6.4 Tbps (StackWise Virtual) | ~480 Gbps (limited stacking) |
| Routing / MAC scale | Large tables (MPLS, SD-Access, 2M+ routes) | Smaller scale, fewer features |
| Uplinks | 1/10/25/40/100G options | Mostly 1/10G only |
| Security & features | UADP ASIC, MACsec, DNA Center integration | Limited modern security/SDN |
| Migration fit | Modern enterprise core/aggregation | Legacy campus/core |
Answer: Cisco’s C9500 offers higher bandwidth, flexible uplinks, and advanced security / automation, making it the natural upgrade path from Catalyst C3850 or C4500-X-LE network switches.
Q3. How scalable is the C9500 in terms of routing and fabric size?
The Catalyst 9500 offers broad scalability: route scale up to 2M IPv4 entries, support for thousands of VRFs, and advanced segmentation for SD-Access and VPN services. Higher-end C9500X models deliver larger buffer capacity and higher route scale, making them suitable for large campus cores or data centre edge roles.
Q4. How does licensing and software model work for the C9500?
Cisco uses a software subscription model with Cisco DNA and Catalyst Software subscriptions. Base hardware licenses (Network Essentials / Advantage) are perpetual. Cisco recommends combining these with Cisco DNA for full automation and analytics capabilities.
Q5. Can I run SD-Access fabrics on Catalyst C9500?
Yes. The Catalyst 9500 line includes support for SD-Access features such as host tracking database, VRF-aware LISP, and cross-domain connectivity. These features rely on compatible software images.
Q6. What high-availability features should enterprises expect from C9500?
Cisco C9500 switches support critical resiliency capabilities: NSF/SSO (Nonstop Forwarding with Stateful Switchover) for control-plane failover, redundant power supplies and fans, and support for in-service upgrades and patching. These capabilities allow core/aggregation deployments to achieve minimal downtime and seamless upgrades.








