Configure Cisco 3504 Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) with VLANs

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of configuring the Cisco 3504 Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) with VLANs. Proper configuration of the WLC is crucial for managing wireless networks efficiently, allowing you to segment traffic and enhance network performance. By following these steps, you'll set up your WLC to support multiple VLANs, improving your network's organization and security.

Step 1: Connect to the Cisco WLC

• Use a console cable to connect your computer to the console port on the Cisco 3504 WLC.
• Open a terminal emulator (like PuTTY or Tera Term) and set the following serial port settings:
  • Baud rate: 9600
  • Data bits: 8
  • Parity: None
  • Stop bits: 1
  • Flow control: None
• Power on the WLC and wait for the boot process to complete. You should see the command line interface.

Step 2: Initial Configuration

• Enter the privileged EXEC mode by typing:

  enable
  

• To start the initial setup, enter the global configuration mode:

  configure terminal
  

• Set the hostname for your WLC:

  hostname YourWLCName
  

• Configure the management interface:
  • Assign an IP address and subnet mask:

    interface management
    ip address [Your_IP_Address] [Subnet_Mask]
    no shutdown
    

Step 3: Configure VLANs

• To create a new VLAN, enter the VLAN configuration mode:

  vlan [VLAN_ID]
  name [VLAN_Name]
  

• Repeat the above command for each VLAN you want to create. Ensure you document each VLAN's ID and name for reference.

Step 4: Assign VLANs to Ports

• Identify the ports where you want to assign the VLANs. Enter the interface configuration mode for each port:

  interface [Interface_ID]
  

• Assign the VLAN to the interface:

  switchport access vlan [VLAN_ID]
  

• For trunk ports, use the following command:

  switchport trunk allowed vlan [VLAN_IDs]
  

• Exit the interface configuration mode after each configuration:

  exit
  

Step 5: Configure Wireless Network Settings

• Create a new WLAN profile:

  wlan [WLAN_Name] [SSID] [WLAN_ID]
  

• Enable the WLAN:

  no shutdown
  

• Assign the VLAN to the WLAN:

  wlan [WLAN_ID]
  vlan [VLAN_ID]
  

• Configure additional WLAN settings (security, QoS, etc.) based on your network requirements.

Step 6: Save Configuration

• Save your configuration to ensure it persists after a reboot:

  write memory
  

Conclusion

You have successfully configured your Cisco 3504 WLC with VLANs. Key steps included connecting to the WLC, defining VLANs, assigning them to ports, and configuring wireless network settings. As a next step, consider testing connectivity across your VLANs and deploying your WLAN to end-users. Regularly review and update your configuration as your network grows or changes.