The way our teams have always worked is we have the data networking side and then the CORE networking side. The wireless controller has historically been managed by the CORE team. With the new SDN network being created comes a plan where we are all being merged into on official NOC with new roles and responsibilities. All of the current members of the CORE are being made primary on one of the Cisco SDN devices (normal) with one exception. I am being given the WLC 😊
With me becoming the first wireless focused team member I was hoping this would happen and have been working at learning all I can about the Cisco 9800s while we’ve been waiting for the contractor to stand everything and do the handover. I figured this was a good place to link some of the material and sites I’ve found helpful. Both for myself and for anyone that may stumble upon this page.
So, to start there is wifitraining.com. This has been a huge resource for me over the last few years. They offer many different classes that focus on the 9800 WLC as well as the wireless aspects of DNAC and ISE (and wired also) so you gain knowledge in the full SDN suite. The first course I took was the Cisco 9800 Rockstar. It covers design, deployment, upgrades, and migrations. This is also how I obtained the nickname “rockstar” from my boss a few years ago so watch out for that haha.
Wifi Training regularly updates the videos so you’re able to keep up with any changes and new features that may be released. The videos are taught by super knowledgeable people in clear and easy to understand ways. Chris’ dogs also bark on occasion to make sure you’re still paying attention or maybe a little too focused (scared the bejesus out of me a few times). On top of all this they offer an all-access pass that is more than worth the cost. I’m really hoping to make it to WLPC again this year and take one of the Wifi Training in person boot camps.
Next is Rasika Nayanajith blog mrncciew.com. This man knows and has written about every aspect of the cisco 9800s and so much more. He’s also one of the great instructors at Wifi Training. I have so may of Rasika’s blog tabs open on my computer as references at any given time I know it would drive most people crazy to see haha. He’s a great resource if you are studying for your CWAP as well.
Here are a few posts I currently have open, but you should seriously go through his blog. There’s so much great knowledge he’s sharing.
The last resource I’ve been using so far is the Cisco Press Understanding and Troubleshooting Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers book written by Simone Arena, Nicolas Darchis, Sudha Katgeri, Francisco Sedano Crippa.
It has been well used in my studies. As you can see, I had to hold the cover closed to take the picture. Not only has this helped me understand some of the how’s and why’s, but it also gave me access to the proper Cisco terminology which is a great confidence enhancer for meetings with the contractor and Cisco engineers.
It was only announced yesterday that I officially get to be the lead for the WLC, and during that, Cisco mentioned that they will be giving me access to a training path they are designing. Once I learn what that involves, I will be able to update this list and will continue to add any resources I think of. Again, not just for anyone reading this but also for myself to come back to…so I have less tabs open 😀
Let's Ginger-Fi it! 
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