Introducting Cisco Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs

Cisco Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs – Smarter, Secure, and Flexible Networks

Cisco Systems has unveiled its latest Cisco Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs at Cisco Live APJC in Melbourne. During the keynote, Tom Gillis, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cisco’s Security Business Group, highlighted the transformative potential of these access points. Designed to address connectivity, security, and assurance challenges, these APs provide a scalable foundation to future-proof workplaces.

Previously, businesses had to choose between cloud-managed Meraki access points or on-premisess Catalyst Center management. With the new Cisco Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs, users can now switch seamlessly between cloud and on-premisess management, eliminating the complexity of the process that existed with earlier Wi-Fi 6E models. This flexibility is powered by Cisco’s unified networking subscription—a single license that spans the entire Wi-Fi 7 portfolio, simplifying how businesses manage their networks.

Unified Management and Enhanced Features

Matt Landry, Cisco’s Vice President of Product Management for Wireless, emphasized that these Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs are more than just next-generation devices. Packed with advanced IoT capabilities such as Bluetooth Low Energy radios and ultra-wideband technology, these APs deliver cutting-edge solutions for smart spaces and location services. This launch also unifies Cisco’s Meraki and Catalyst product lines, a long-anticipated move that bridges the gap between the two portfolios and enhances enterprise flexibility.

Historically, the inability to share policies and management tools between Catalyst and Meraki created challenges for enterprises. The unification of these platforms into a single product line provides a seamless experience for businesses, regardless of their management preferences.

Intelligent Wireless Innovations with Cisco Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs

Gillis described the Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs as “intelligent, secure, and assured.” They leverage AI-native capabilities to optimize performance, detect locations, and enable out-of-the-box configuration through the Cisco Spaces platform. This innovation transforms workplaces into smart environments while simplifying deployment complexities.

The auto-location feature configures access points based on regional requirements, eliminating the need for multiple SKUs and licenses. Advanced security features, including AI-driven device profiling and data encryption, ensure robust wireless protection.

Additionally, these APs integrate Cisco ThousandEyes digital assurance tools, enabling businesses to identify and resolve performance bottlenecks quickly. This observability extends beyond the wireless network to other infrastructure, making troubleshooting more efficient and reducing downtime.

Cloud-Centric and Future-Ready Networks

Cisco’s Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs are a testament to its commitment to cloud-centric networking. By embedding AI intelligence and simplifying operations, Cisco enables organizations to deploy smarter, more adaptive networks. According to Landry, these networks provide tools to monitor environmental and user data, enabling businesses to create smart spaces that support open roaming and enhanced location services.

Under Executive Vice President Jeetu Patel, Cisco is redefining its approach to networking. These access points mark the beginning of a larger transformation, combining advanced AI, security, and observability features to deliver a new standard in wireless networking.

The Wi-Fi 7 Ready APs will be available for order starting November 13, with shipments beginning in December, signaling a significant step forward in Cisco’s wireless portfolio.