Cisco Cisco 521 Wireless Express Access Point Data Sheet
Data Sheet
© 2008 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. This document is Cisco Public Information.
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Cisco 521 Wireless Express Access Point
The Cisco
®
521 Wireless Express Access Point is a single-band 802.11g access point
that features business-class management, security, and scalability. This access point
offers high-performance wireless connectivity in offices and similar environments.
The Cisco Mobility Express Solution brings together the Cisco 521 access point and the Cisco 500
Series Wireless Express Mobility Controller to provide a flexible, cost-effective wireless solution
specifically designed to meet the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The
Mobility Express Solution is part of the Cisco Smart Business Communications System (SBCS) – a
unified communications solution for SMBs that provides voice, data, video, security, and wireless
capabilities while integrating with existing desktop applications like calendar, e-mail, and customer
relationship management (CRM) to provide a complete solution.
As part of this solution, the Cisco 521 access point uniquely addresses the diverse requirements of
SMBs by offering the versatility of operating either in standalone mode, or in controller-based
mode with the Cisco 500 Series Wireless Express Controller.
●
Standalone mode: Access points are directly connected to the wired infrastructure through
an Ethernet switch and provide reliable high-speed wireless connectivity to users in the
area they cover. Configuration and management are performed locally at the individual
access point level.
●
Controller-based mode: Access points are directly connected to the wired infrastructure
through an Ethernet switch and associated with a Cisco 500 Series Wireless Express
Mobility Controller. The controller streamlines and manages the configuration of all
connected access points through a single interface, and provides a platform for mobility
services such as secure guest access and voice over Wi-Fi.
The Cisco 521 access point delivers optimal value for offices, classrooms, small warehouses, and
similar environments. Built-in antennas provide omni-directional coverage specifically designed for
today's open workspaces. A multipurpose mounting bracket easily secures Cisco 521 access
points to ceilings and walls. With an unobtrusive design, the access points are aesthetically
appealing and blend into their surrounding environment. For maximum concealment, the access
point’s UL 2043 rating allows it to be placed above ceilings in plenum areas regulated by municipal
fire codes. Managed by the Cisco Configuration Assistant, and optimized for easy installation and
operation, the Cisco 521 access point helps organizations attain a lower total cost of ownership.
See Figure 1.