Wall plate access points provide both wired Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity. Cisco has just started shipping the latest CW9172H Wi-Fi 7 wall plate AP. Same as all other Cisco’s Wi-Fi 7 APs, it is designed for global use. The regulatory domain is no longer dictated by the SKU. The CW9172H can be managed either by Cisco Meraki Dashboard, or Catalyst 9800 controller and Catalyst Center.

It can be mounted onto an electrical wall plate. The twisted pair cable runs inside the wall and there are no visible cables.

If no wall plate is available, you can mount the AP using a spacer accessory kit on the actual wall surface with cables clipped to the wall.

Back to unboxing. What is included in the box? Well, if you order multiple access points, select the 6-pack option referred to as “multi packaging”. Who wouldn’t want a six pack? 😊
The 6-pack box dimensions are about 33 x 20 x 25 cm and it contains 6 APs.

Inside are 6 smaller boxes with 1 access point each.

Each AP is wrapped in paper. No plastic bags anymore.

Mounting bracket and accessories are placed underneath the AP.

Accessories are packaged in paper bags. Let’s have a closer look.

Finally, there is the access point.

The passthrough port covered by a plastic cover. There is 1 PoE out port and 2 standard Ethernet downlinks for your devices.

On the side is a standard RJ-45 console port, also covered by a plastic cover mainly for aesthetics reasons. Let’s remove the cover, shall we?

The Ethernet passthrough port cover follows similar style.

Back side of the AP hosts the up to 2.5 Gbps Ethernet uplink and passthrough port.

Optional accessories
There are extra parts you can order depending on how you wish to use and mount the CW9172H.
The spacer kit is designed for mounting on the actual wall surface.

Desktop cradle accessory is another option if you prefer to place the AP on a desk.

The port lock prevents users from connecting or disconnecting cables to the ports on the bottom side of the AP.

As per usual, refer to the Cisco installation guide and data sheet for official guidance.