Aruba Access Points vs Catalyst 9100 Access Points comparison

Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Cisco are both solutions in the Wireless LAN category. Hewlett Packard Enterprise is ranked #7 with an average rating of 8.6, while Cisco is ranked #20 with an average rating of 9.5. Additionally, 94% of Hewlett Packard Enterprise users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 100% of Cisco users who would recommend it.

Aruba Access Points

Read 39 Aruba Access Points reviews

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1,552 Comparison Views

94% willing to recommend

Catalyst 9100 Access Points

Read 3 Catalyst 9100 Access Points reviews

122 Views
122 Comparison Views

100% willing to recommend

Aruba Access Points

Catalyst 9100 Access Points

Comparison Buyer's Guide

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Nov 23, 2025

Aruba Access Points and Catalyst 9100 Access Points compete in the wireless networking market. Aruba Access Points have an advantage in affordability and ease of integration, which appeals to budget-conscious buyers. Meanwhile, Catalyst 9100 Access Points justify a higher price with advanced features, security, and scalability.

Features: Aruba Access Points offer user-friendly management, flexible scalability, and basic security features. Catalyst 9100 Access Points provide enhanced security capabilities, detailed analytics, and machine learning integration.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Aruba Access Points are easy to deploy with responsive support for quick installation and simple management. Catalyst 9100 Access Points require more initial setup but benefit from comprehensive support and robust backend systems.

Pricing and ROI: Aruba Access Points provide lower upfront costs, appealing to those seeking quick returns. Catalyst 9100 Access Points, while more expensive upfront, deliver higher long-term ROI through advanced features and scalability.

To learn more, read our detailed Aruba Access Points vs. Catalyst 9100 Access Points Report (Updated: December 2025).

Buyer's Guide

Aruba Access Points vs. Catalyst 9100 Access Points

December 2025

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Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

Aruba Access Points

Ranking in Wireless LAN

7th

Average Rating

8.6

Reviews Sentiment

7.0

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Catalyst 9100 Access Points

Ranking in Wireless LAN

20th

Average Rating

9.6

Reviews Sentiment

5.8

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Featured Reviews

reviewer1912536

Manager Technical at a tech services company with 11-50 employees

Positive features shine with room for growth in advanced analytics adoption

Aruba Access Points are technologically advanced. Price-wise, they are cheaper than Cisco and other options. Our market is very price-conscious, so we normally work with Aruba in general. Feature-wise, they are technically strong, but the main point is the price point, which is very important for proposing, developing, and establishing a solution. Regarding scalability, users can implement many types of access points and increase their quantity. When using the controller-based solution, scalability is readily available. The main advantage is the flexibility of usage and comfortability. Users can build networks on Aruba Access Points, and the price is very comparable with other products. The feature set is good enough. Aruba Wi-Fi 6 is available in the market, but it is not generally required because it is costlier than traditional Wi-Fi 4 and 5.

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Syed Aathif Hussain

Principal Associate IT at a tech services company with 10,001+ employees

Has improved wireless connectivity by supporting high user density and signal reliability

Catalyst 9100 Access Points reduce network vulnerabilities. The frequency reuse technology is used in Wi-Fi 6 technology. The devices are nowadays intelligent compared to the legacy devices. They communicate with each other, adapt themselves, and improve the quality of Wi-Fi infrastructure connectivity within the premise. They are more robust and adaptable. They have significantly improved wireless connectivity compared to the legacy environment. The legacy environment was not effective with those kinds of algorithms, whereas Catalyst 9100 Access Points have different inbuilt features and are more optimized and adaptable to situations. Catalyst 9100 Access Points provide Wi-Fi connection to end users, similar to home routers with broadband connectivity. When a technician connects the device to the modem, it starts providing Wi-Fi. The configuration is inbuilt, requiring only an IP address to operate. It listens to the wireless controller, and whatever SSID is configured in the controller will be broadcasting. Catalyst 9100 Access Points are next-generation access points without the limitations of legacy access points. They have better reachability, signal strength, power utilization, and scalability. While legacy access points could accommodate 15 users practically, Catalyst 9100 Access Points can reach up to 40 or 50 users simultaneously on different radios with MIMO technology. There are different models of Catalyst 9100 Access Points depending on site requirements. Wi-Fi 6 technology has improved wireless connectivity significantly. Post-pandemic, everything has become hybrid, and wireless network has become an undeniable infrastructure requirement. Previously, LAN cable connectors were used for better speed achievement. Now, Wi-Fi 6 technology has improved wireless connectivity to such an extent that LAN cable connectivity is no longer necessary. Users can work remotely with Wi-Fi connectivity, achieving both speed and scalability. The sixth-generation Wi-Fi provides improved bandwidth and security on wireless infrastructure.

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Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"Aruba Access Points provide further coverage, more coverage, with better throughput and signal strength."

"I like the solution because of its throughput and low latency. It has resolved roaming issues for my customers."

"Aruba Access Points are reliable and easy to implement."

"After we installed the Aruba switches, the work became faster because the network speed improved."

"Aruba Access points easily integrate with existing network infrastructure."

"The product has good coverage."

"It offers remarkable client-handling capacity."

"Aruba Access Points’ most valuable features are network mobility and reliability for network access."

More Aruba Access Points pros

"The features in Catalyst 9100 Access Points that I have found most valuable include that it's a complete solution; we go with Cisco because you have access points, you have a controller, you have Cisco ISE, and you have Cisco DNA Center."

"The reliability of Cisco is the number one aspect I have seen, and the performance is pretty stable."

"Wi-Fi 6 technology has improved wireless connectivity to such an extent that LAN cable connectivity is no longer necessary, allowing users to work remotely with Wi-Fi connectivity while achieving both speed and scalability."

Cons

"While scaling up to five hundred users, it may cause some performance issues."

"The product should improve its integration and the grouping of the features and functions."

"The solution’s updates and firmware are complicated to upgrade."

"The licensing models lack clarity."

"Some customers comment that the shape and size of the access point is a little big, especially the one installed in the guest room."

"They should reduce the prices as an advanced marketing tool."

"The integration capabilities of the product with the tools from other vendors is an area of concern where improvements are required."

"I would appreciate for the higher-end models to offer the same signal strength as the older, smaller models, even while maintaining the latest standards, as this would enhance the overall network performance and coverage."

More Aruba Access Points cons

"Frankly, ease of use is one of the things that needs improvement, as the management interfaces have always been complex and not very intuitive."

"Theoretically, you can connect up to 100 clients simultaneously, but practically, this is not feasible. There will be bandwidth deterioration, and 100 clients using the same bandwidth will impact the quality of service."

"Technical support from Cisco has been a bit degraded lately because the first support we get is challenging."

Pricing and Cost Advice

"The cost of Aruba Access Points has been on the rise, which may be due to market dynamics or regional factors, such as in Egypt. Additionally, the availability of Aruba products is a concern, with a lead time of approximately twelve months. This prolonged waiting period and a lack of responsiveness from HP, the parent company of Aruba, have led to the cancellation of some orders. The supply chain for Aruba appears to face challenges, impacting product delivery timelines."

"The product is costly and comes with a lifetime license. There is neither renewal nor subscription. It is a one-time solution."

"The product is expensive if you want it to have a long life."

"The solution is expensive and licensing costs are yearly. Customers have to pay extra costs for service and subscription apart from the hardware cost."

"Although not cheap, Aruba Access Points is a reasonably priced solution."

"The product is cheaper than Cisco and Huawei."

"Overall, I would say the pricing is reasonable and meets our expectations."

"The tool's pricing is not expensive. It is perfect as per the features."

More Aruba Access Points pricing and cost advice

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

13%

Comms Service Provider

10%

Manufacturing Company

Financial Services Firm

No data available

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	20
Midsize Enterprise	9
Large Enterprise	11

No data available

Questions from the Community

What do you like most about Aruba Access Points?

After we installed the Aruba switches, the work became faster because the network speed improved.

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What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Aruba Access Points?

When comparing pricing between Aruba Access Points and Forti, I find Aruba to be on the higher side.

See all answers

What needs improvement with Aruba Access Points?

AI is a buzzword here without substance. In a practical sense, nobody is working with AI or willing to work with AI features. Everyone discusses AI, but for providing wireless access to users, AI o...

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What needs improvement with Catalyst 9100 Access Points?

Frankly, ease of use is one of the things that needs improvement, as the management interfaces have always been complex and not very intuitive. I believe Cisco needs to enhance its visibility solut...

See all answers

What is your primary use case for Catalyst 9100 Access Points?

We have recently deployed hundreds of access points in the last two years.

See all answers

What advice do you have for others considering Catalyst 9100 Access Points?

I am currently working with Fortinet, but frankly, I have a team which is more working on Fortinet and other products because I am managing them, so I am a little less hands-on right now. Basically...

See all answers

Comparisons

Fortinet FortiAP vs Aruba Access Points

Compared 44% of the time

Cisco Wireless vs Aruba Access Points

Compared 10% of the time

Cisco Meraki Wireless LAN vs Aruba Access Points

Compared 8% of the time

Ruckus Wireless vs Aruba Access Points

Compared 8% of the time

Huawei Wireless vs Aruba Access Points

Compared 7% of the time

More Aruba Access Points Competitors

No data available

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Aruba Access Points

January 2026

Download Aruba Access Points product report

Buyer's Guide

Catalyst 9100 Access Points

January 2026

Download Catalyst 9100 Access Points product report

Overview

Aruba Access Points are a preferred choice for enterprises, providing efficient wireless connectivity across corporate settings, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities with both indoor and outdoor deployment options.

Aruba Access Points deliver reliable Wi-Fi and network access tailored for enterprise and guest connectivity, supporting IoT devices in diverse environments such as warehouses and offices. They ensure secure connections with features like VPN management and 802.1x authentication, along with flexibility in deployment. Users can benefit from their robust warranty, ease of use, and seamless integration possibilities. The devices facilitate convenient management through both on-premise and cloud solutions, although there is a need for improved coverage, security, and integration features.

What are the standout features of Aruba Access Points?

Virtual Controller: Manages multiple Access Points without additional hardware.
Client Match: Ensures devices connect to the best access point available.
Seamless Roaming: Provides uninterrupted connectivity without drop-offs.
Integration Capabilities: Allows easy incorporation of enterprise wireless solutions.
Advanced Authentication: Offers 802.1x and secure guest access.

What benefits or ROI can users look for?

High Stability: Consistent performance minimizes downtime.
Simple Configuration: Easy setup saves time and resources.
Network Mobility: Supports movement with uninterrupted access.
Visibility: Provides network insights for better management.
Warranty and Support: Offers robust warranty terms.

In specific industries, Aruba Access Points are implemented to enhance patient record access and guest connectivity in healthcare, support interactive learning environments in education, and streamline operations in warehouses with IoT integration. Their deployment aligns with industry-specific requirements, ensuring reliable connectivity and secure access to critical applications.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Catalyst 9100 Access Points are cutting-edge wireless solutions designed for complex network environments, offering seamless connectivity, robust performance, and expansive coverage to enhance business operations.

Engineered to meet high-density demands, Catalyst 9100 Access Points deliver high-speed wireless performance with Wi-Fi 6 technology. These access points support advanced security protocols and artificial intelligence-driven analytics, ensuring optimal operational efficiency. Their seamless integration with existing infrastructures makes them adaptable for various enterprise needs.

What are the key features?

Wi-Fi 6: Enables faster speeds and increased capacity.
Advanced Security: Features embedded encryption for secure connections.
AI Analytics: Provides insights for network optimization.
Seamless Integration: Compatible with existing network setups.

What benefits and ROI can be expected?

Improved Connectivity: Enhanced device performance and fewer interruptions.
Cost Efficiency: Reduced operational costs through efficient energy use.
Scalability: Easily expand networks as business grows.

Catalyst 9100 Access Points are used in industries like healthcare and education, where reliable, high-performance wireless connections are essential, ensuring constant connectivity for critical applications and facilitating advanced data analytics to support industry-specific needs.

Cisco

Buyer's Guide

Aruba Access Points vs. Catalyst 9100 Access Points

December 2025

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