Aruba Airwave vs HPE Intelligent Management Center comparison

Aruba Airwave and HPE Intelligent Management Center are both solutions in the Network Management Applications category. Aruba Airwave is ranked #4 with an average rating of 8.1, while HPE Intelligent Management Center is ranked #9 with an average rating of 9.0. Aruba Airwave holds a 3.7% mindshare in NMA, compared to HPE Intelligent Management Center’s 4.5% mindshare. Additionally, 92% of Aruba Airwave users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 85% of HPE Intelligent Management Center users who would recommend it.

Aruba Airwave

Read 26 Aruba Airwave reviews

1,893 Views
1,685 Comparison Views

92% willing to recommend

HPE Intelligent Management ...

Read 7 HPE Intelligent Management Center reviews

1,623 Views
1,493 Comparison Views

85% willing to recommend

Aruba Airwave

HPE Intelligent Management ...

Comparison Buyer's Guide

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Jan 2, 2025

Aruba Airwave and HPE Intelligent Management Center are competitors in network management. While Aruba distinguishes itself with pricing and support, HPE is regarded as a better choice for extensive network features, offering significant benefits to tech buyers.

Features: Aruba Airwave offers excellent visibility into network performance, simplifies troubleshooting with its Live Heat Map, and supports zero-touch provisioning. It also boasts multivendor interoperability, which is beneficial for managing equipment from various brands. HPE Intelligent Management Center features comprehensive analytics, infrastructure monitoring, and a user-friendly interface, providing a vast range of management options including automation and application monitoring, which are valuable for complex setups.

Room for Improvement: Aruba Airwave could benefit from enhanced reporting customization, improved integration with certain non-Aruba devices, and better visualization tools for data representation. HPE Intelligent Management Center might need to offer more straightforward deployment processes, increased user support for the initial setup, and optimization for mid-sized network environments, which can be resource-intensive.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Aruba Airwave is praised for its simple and resource-light deployment model, which minimizes setup time and effort. Its customer service is noted for being supportive. In contrast, HPE Intelligent Management Center involves a more complex deployment due to its broad feature set, though its customer service is responsive and provides substantial support during the setup phase.

Pricing and ROI: Aruba Airwave is generally cheaper to implement, making it attractive for those with budget constraints and offers a quicker ROI. HPE Intelligent Management Center, though more expensive initially, delivers a more robust ROI with its wide array of features and long-term operational benefits, making it a preferred choice for organizations seeking comprehensive network management solutions.

To learn more, read our detailed Aruba Airwave vs. HPE Intelligent Management Center Report (Updated: April 2026).

Buyer's Guide

Aruba Airwave vs. HPE Intelligent Management Center

April 2026

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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 Airwave

Ranking in Network Management Applications

4th

Average Rating

8.2

Reviews Sentiment

6.1

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

HPE Intelligent Management ...

Ranking in Network Management Applications

9th

Average Rating

7.2

Reviews Sentiment

7.1

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Mindshare comparison

As of May 2026, in the Network Management Applications category, the mindshare of Aruba Airwave is 3.7%, down from 6.4% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of HPE Intelligent Management Center is 4.5%, down from 6.2% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Network Management Applications Mindshare Distribution
Product	Mindshare (%)
Aruba Airwave	3.7%
HPE Intelligent Management Center	4.5%
Other	91.8%

Network Management Applications

Featured Reviews

Edward Zeng

Senior Network Engineer at Auckland University of Technology

Troubleshooting obstacles occur but technical support excels

My general opinion on Aruba Airwave is that it's acceptable, but it's not ideal because we are accustomed to Cisco. We didn't use Aruba much, but once you set it up, you probably don't need to worry about it too much. The version we are using is quite old now, probably around version four. I can't remember the version exactly because a lot of the products require Aruba Central, but we haven't used Aruba Central yet. I face challenges with Aruba Airwave, particularly with troubleshooting. When someone has a problem, we try troubleshooting, but the end-to-end users' messages show some details that are not always up-to-date, and sometimes the information from the GUI is not exactly aligned with what's on the website. If Aruba Airwave can apply AI capabilities, that would be even more perfect. I'd appreciate integration with Aruba Central; it would be great if they could incorporate it into Airwave.

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Muhammad_Faisal

Manager ITSM at Lucky Cement Limited

Achieve seamless network and link monitoring with comprehensive device management

The most valuable function is that the IMC takes an entire backup of my network devices, and I can also redeploy them. The really beneficial feature is the link monitoring. I had checked Check Point's product, however, my requirements are better fulfilled by IMC. The main feature is that IMC automatically configures the device for my use. I have over 200 features in my network, and IMC manages the complete environment. Automation is good, but I mainly use it for monitoring. I am too satisfied with this product.

Read full review

Quotes from Members

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

Pros

"The feature that proved most beneficial for our organization's network monitoring is the virtual four, which we use frequently when working with Aruba."

"The solution's most valuable features are its usage, bandwidth existence, device capacity, and utilization."

"The most beneficial feature for network monitoring in Aruba Airwave is the Live Heat Map. It helps identify interferences, coverage issues, and user connectivity issues. The device management capability of Aruba Airwave is good. It provides end-to-end visibility from the user to the access point, the switch, and the internet breakout. From a monitoring, management, and orchestration standpoint, it is very effective and can manage any scale of deployment."

"The solution's initial setup process is straightforward."

"It facilitated creating floor maps."

"AirWave definitely helps us troubleshoot and get to the root cause of the issues. It gives you an excellent indication of what's going on within your network at different locations. You can get to the area, take a look at the AirWave analysis, and make informed decisions."

"The monitoring and administration allow configurations for checking the association of the user to the network, then to the AP, then to the switch, and back to the controller."

"ROI is good, and the technology has a good life span."

More Aruba Airwave pros

"The most useful feature is infrastructure monitoring including switches and servers."

"We chose HPE for its interoperability with non-Cisco equipment, interoperability with non HP equipment, and customizable, and a deep feature set that Cisco Prime just didn't have because it's focused on Cisco stuff only."

"The most valuable feature is the interface and its ease of use."

"It's a very complete product with a lot of functionality."

"One of the notable advantages is its ability to provide quick responses, especially in critical situations."

"The most useful feature is infrastructure monitoring including switches and servers."

"The most valuable feature is the interface and its ease of use."

"The most valuable function is that the IMC takes an entire backup of my network devices, and I can also redeploy them."

More HPE Intelligent Management Center pros

Cons

"They should make it cheaper. By doing that, they can replace Cisco, which is also very expensive. If it is equivalent to Cisco in the features, with a reduced price, they can sell it more than Cisco."

"The main challenge we've faced with Aruba Airwave is its high cost, especially regarding high availability and failover licenses, which can be relatively expensive for customers. As for recommendations for improvement, considering that Aruba is planning to retire Airwave soon and introduce a new solution, it's crucial that the new product meets or exceeds the current Airwave's feature set. Customers expect a seamless transition without losing any functionality, so Aruba needs to ensure that the new solution is ready with all the essential features and capabilities from day one to avoid any gaps or dissatisfaction among users and partners."

"I am not deeply familiar with the solution, so if I mention a feature, it might already exist, yet I may be unaware of it."

"Pricing for Aruba Airwave could be cheaper, which is an area for improvement in the solution."

"The biggest problem for not using Aruba Airwave extensively now is that HP is not upgrading this tool. They're not investing money and time into it, which is why we're not using it."

"My general opinion on Aruba Airwave is that it's acceptable, but it's not ideal because we are accustomed to Cisco."

"More devices or vendors should be onboarded to Aruba Airwave."

"Support is good, but it is not as good as Cisco. Cisco's support is faster."

More Aruba Airwave cons

"The integration with other network devices needs improvement."

"It's horrible. 90% of the time we're figuring out the solution ourselves."

"I face the issue with the integration with links on Fortinet Firewall."

"I would like to see additional modules included."

"HPE Intelligent Management Center is a bit slow."

"Technical support is the one area where I have to rate HPE fairly poorly; when we have encountered issues, particularly around inconsistencies in the topology views, getting them fixed can be a cumbersome process."

"One notable deficiency is the lack of online support for the product."

More HPE Intelligent Management Center cons

Pricing and Cost Advice

"Licensing and pricing are extremely straightforward."

"The tool is expensive. If one is bad or expensive, and ten is very good or cheap, I rate the product's price as a six."

"AirWave is a very expensive solution. If you implement it in a wide range network, it will cost a lot. There is no option to sell it outside that price segment, which is a problem."

"The cost is perfect because the devices have a lifetime warranty, and the licensing is good as well."

"Aruba Airwave is an expensive solution."

"Run a 90 day free Proof of Concept (PoC) for each product by implementing and using it fully in your environment. This way you will be educated on its features, functionality, and manageability."

"The licensing cost for Aruba Airwave increased from $72 to $210 within a few months. It would be better if the pricing for the solution were cheaper."

"I rate the product’s pricing a five out of ten."

More Aruba Airwave pricing and cost advice

"There are licensing costs and they are quite expensive."

"The price of this solution is not at all cheap, but it's reasonable compared to SolarWinds."

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Government

Educational Organization

Construction Company

Transportation Company

Government

10%

Computer Software Company

10%

Manufacturing Company

10%

Comms Service Provider

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	11
Midsize Enterprise	4
Large Enterprise	14

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	3
Midsize Enterprise	1
Large Enterprise	3

Questions from the Community

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Aruba Airwave?

I think the solution is quite affordable.

See all answers

What needs improvement with Aruba Airwave?

They have other sensors which can manage and control all the sites. There is an IoT component where we can restrict internet services such as Facebook and YouTube. These things can also be managed....

See all answers

What is your primary use case for Aruba Airwave?

For Aruba Airwave, I am using the wireless devices for the Wi-Fi for the full company with access points. This is the top product I feel, and I see in the Gartner also. It is a good product and eas...

See all answers

What needs improvement with HPE Intelligent Management Center?

I face the issue with the integration with links on Fortinet Firewall. This will be sorted out with the help of IMC, and now I have a modem dialing as per my needs.

See all answers

What is your primary use case for HPE Intelligent Management Center?

I am using this solution for network monitoring, links monitoring, and complete monitoring of my infrastructure. I also deploy FortiVAF, FortiAnalyzer, and FortiManager as part of a complete securi...

See all answers

What advice do you have for others considering HPE Intelligent Management Center?

I rate the overall solution nine out of ten.

See all answers

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Compared 10% of the time

Cisco Catalyst Center vs Aruba Airwave

Compared 8% of the time

OpenText Network Node Manager vs Aruba Airwave

Compared 7% of the time

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Cisco DNA Center vs HPE Intelligent Management Center

Compared 15% of the time

H3C intelligent Management Center vs HPE Intelligent Management Center

Compared 9% of the time

Fortinet FortiManager vs HPE Intelligent Management Center

Compared 8% of the time

OpenText Network Node Manager vs HPE Intelligent Management Center

Compared 8% of the time

ExtremeManagement vs HPE Intelligent Management Center

Compared 7% of the time

More HPE Intelligent Management Center Competitors

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Aruba Airwave

May 2026

Download Aruba Airwave product report

Buyer's Guide

Network Management Applications

May 2026

HPE Intelligent Management Center report

Download HPE Intelligent Management Center product report

Also Known As

No data available

HPE IMC

Overview

Aruba Airwave is a comprehensive network management tool known for its multivendor support and robust monitoring capabilities. It provides centralized control, cloud management, real-time monitoring, error logs, and visualization tools, making it a preferred choice for managing complex network environments.

Aruba Airwave offers an intuitive interface that simplifies network management and monitoring. Its ability to integrate with major vendors like Cisco enhances its functionality, making it adept at handling large-scale, high-density networks in challenging environments. Users can effectively manage and configure Wi-Fi networks while gaining detailed insight into performance and connectivity issues through efficient troubleshooting tools. Although some desire improvements in interface stability and error reporting clarity, Airwave's features like Clarity, VisualRF, and centralized access make it an asset in network operations. Challenges include pricing, scalability, and device compatibility, with users also seeking better integration with systems like IMC.

What are the key features of Aruba Airwave?

Multivendor Support: Seamless integration with various network vendors like Cisco.
Effective Monitoring: Real-time performance insights and network health checks.
Management and Reporting: Simplified configuration, management, and report creation.
VisualRF: Comprehensive visualization of the network layout and performance.
Clarity and Live Heat Map: Enhanced visibility for troubleshooting connectivity issues.
Cloud Management: Facilitates centralized control and network orchestration.

What benefits and ROI can users expect with Airwave?

Network Visibility: Comprehensive insights for proactive management and optimization.
Improved Performance: Rapid identification and resolution of network issues.
Vendor Integration: Simplifies management across diverse network environments.
Scalability: Supports large-scale deployments in institutions with vast networks.

Entities such as hospitals, universities, and financial institutions typically deploy Aruba Airwave to manage their extensive network infrastructures. The platform is crucial for overseeing access points in high-density areas, leveraging detailed performance metrics for enhanced decision-making. Its capabilities for SNMP device management and access to a unified interface facilitate efficient operation across different network brands, supporting the rigorous demands of industry-specific applications.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

HPE Intelligent Management Center offers extensive features for network device management, monitoring, and interoperability across various equipment, valued for its user-friendly interface, automation, and rapid insights.

HPE Intelligent Management Center is a comprehensive network management platform allowing seamless integration with non-Cisco equipment, aiding in managing diverse environments. It is essential for network device backups, infrastructure monitoring, and comprehensive device management. With its Application Monitor, users gain deep platform insights. The tool offers efficient device interrogation, capable firmware deployment, and customizable reports, significantly enhancing its functionality. Though users find it challenging in configuration and interface intuitiveness, its core capabilities remain respected for network oversight. Additional improvements in documentation and Fortinet Firewall integration would enhance its appeal further.

What are the most important features of HPE Intelligent Management Center?

Network Device Backups: Ensures data safety and easy recovery.
Infrastructure Monitoring: Provides robust oversight of network conditions.
Interoperability: Works seamlessly with non-Cisco equipment.
Application Monitor: Delivers in-depth platform performance insights.
Customizable Reports: Allows tailored documentation and analysis.

What benefits and ROI should users expect in reviews?

User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies network management tasks.
Automation Capabilities: Enhances efficiency and accuracy.
Comprehensive Management: Facilitates complete device oversight.
Rapid Critical Insights: Provides quick access to vital information.
Device Interrogation Efficiency: Improves network troubleshooting and analysis.

HPE Intelligent Management Center is primarily implemented for network monitoring and infrastructure management. It is crucial for end-to-end tracking, link, switch, and bandwidth management within industries reliant on robust IT frameworks. Leveraging tools like FortiVAF, FortiAnalyzer, and FortiManager creates a comprehensive security infrastructure, enhancing user management and report generation. The focus remains on the core platform, with additional modules used less frequently.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Sample Customers

Henkel, University of Findlay, University of Minnesota Duluth, University of Iowa

Information Not Available

Buyer's Guide

Aruba Airwave vs. HPE Intelligent Management Center

April 2026

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