Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers are responsible for system wide wireless LAN functions, such as security policies, intrusion prevention, RF management, quality of service (QoS), and mobility. They work in conjunction with Cisco Lightweight Access Points and the Cisco Wireless Control System (WCS) to support business-critical wireless applications.
Cisco Wireless LAN Controllers communicate with Cisco Lightweight Access Points over any Layer 2 (Ethernet) or Layer 3 (IP) infrastructure using the Lightweight Access Point Protocol (LWAPP). These devices support automation of numerous WLAN configuration and management functions across all enterprise locations.
The Cisco 4400 Series is available in two models-the 4402 with two Gigabit Ethernet ports comes in configurations that support 12, 25, and 50 lightweight access points, and the 4404 with four Gigabit Ethernet ports supports 100 lightweight access points.