HPE Aruba 2930F 24G 4SFP - switch - 24 ports - managed - rack-mountable
Mfg # JL259A#ABA
CDW # 4204324
Quick tech specs
- Switch
- managed
- rack-mountable
- L3
- 24 x 10/100/1000 + 4 x Gigabit SFP (uplink)
Know your gear
The Aruba 2930F Switch Series is designed for customer creating digital workplaces optimized for mobile users. These Layer 3 access switches are easy to deploy and manage with advanced security and network management tools like Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager, Aruba AirWave and cloud-based Aruba Central. Virtual Switching Framework (VSF) provides stacking scale and simplicity for enterprise edge, SMB and branch offices. The 2930F delivers performance and value with support for RIP routing, Access OSPF, 10GbE uplinks, robust QoS, and requires no software licensing.
Enhance your purchase
HPE Aruba 2930F 24G 4SFP - switch - 24 ports - managed - rack-mountable is rated
4.30 out of
5 by
7.
Rated 5 out of
5 by
MashukThakur from
Simple to configure, easy setup, but support could improve
What is our primary use case?
Aruba Networks Wireless WAN is used for wireless network conductivity.
What is most valuable?
The most valuable feature of Aruba Networks Wireless WAN is that it is easy to configure. Additionally, with the same configuration with Cisco and Ruckus, we can receive 55 to 60 percent more out of Aruba Networks Wireless WAN.
If you're unwilling to purchase or spend money on a controller, you can opt for a virtual console base solution that offers up to 120 access points. This approach is highly cost-effective, as you won't have to raise your budget, and it's easy to set up.
What needs improvement?
When it comes to configuring rules for file security tests, any issues that arise can be referred to as "glitches". Despite the extensive configurations required, the process itself is not overly complicated.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using Aruba Networks Wireless WAN for approximately three years.
How are customer service and support?
When I open a support ticket with Aruba, it goes to their team in Bangalore, India. While I cannot say they are the worst, I am not perfectly happy with their support. Recently, I closed a ticket with them that took over seven days to resolve a simple issue of adding a MAC address to the control. This slow support process can be a problem, especially if the customer has a live network. However, I have noticed that their CCAs are now more professional than they were three years ago. Sometimes, Aruba avoids alerting by opening tickets after their official time, which goes to the European team. Similarly, we do the same for Cisco to reach their European team for faster and more knowledgeable support. Currently, Aruba's support is not as scalable as Cisco or Roper, although Roper's team is also in Bangalore.
As an on-site engineer, I sometimes open support tickets when I suspect a configuration mistake, but it can be confusing when the supporting engineer has less knowledge than me. It is also challenging to escalate the ticket in front of the customer I am installing for, so we have to maneuver a little to reach another engineer. Overall, Aruba's support is not as frustrating as before, although sometimes I feel the need to change the engineer.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
I have used many other network solutions, such as Cisco and Ruckus.
Ruckus stands out in its ability to provide connectivity to users through its access points even when the controller is unavailable or cannot be reached. In contrast, if the controller goes down with Aruba or Cisco, the entire infrastructure will be affected, unless you switch to Mobility-based or virtual-based software.
One disadvantage of Aruba is their access point bracket, which is not standardized across all their devices, such as Cisco's brackets. This makes it difficult to identify and mount access points in different locations, as they may require different types of brackets based on the mounting method and physical location. Additionally, Aruba's console cable is not standardized across all models, unlike Cisco's console cable which can be used for switches, access points, and RJ4 devices. Furthermore, Aruba's console cable is not included in the box, which can make it challenging to access and control an access point through the serial port without having to find and purchase the specific cable required. In contrast, Cisco has a standardized console cable that can be used for all their devices.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup of Aruba Networks Wireless WAN is simple.
To deploy Aruba Networks Wireless WAN, we use various tools for server setup and generating heat maps, typically employing models 505 and 515. The 505 model is cost-effective yet powerful, supporting fixed Wi-Fi and over 100 concurrent users as well as handling 100 voice clients. Once we generate the heat maps and present the external version, we include customer pricing and other details for approval. Upon approval, we proceed with the deployment.
I create heat maps, which are becoming increasingly in demand these days. I use multiple models of devices from Cisco, Ruckus, and Aruba depending on the physical location. For example, if it's a warehouse with high ceilings, I use the Aruba 515, while for office areas, I use the 505. For outdoor locations, I use the 565 or 575. However, I haven't utilized Nest connectivity with any Cisco, Aruba, or Ruckus routers yet.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The price of Aruba Networks Wireless WAN is less expensive than Ruckus and Cisco.
What other advice do I have?
The maintenance of the solution is not difficult, I have been doing it for a long time.
Aruba's controller is an integrated system, whereas Cisco has separate devices and services that are not too integrated. Ruckus also has separate devices and services. When customers buy Cisco or Ruckus devices, they are buying all the devices together to get the best service. However, after the sale, nobody calls for support or assistance.
In the case of Aruba, if the controller goes down, the access points can be converted to a version of the software that allows them to work with a virtual controller. However, there are physical issues with Aruba, such as confusion with the access point bracket and console cable. Even if there are multiple console types, it would be fine as long as they are provided in the box.
I prefer Ruckus solutions, but it is expensive for customers.
I rate Aruba Networks Wireless WAN a seven out of ten.
Disclaimer: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer:Partner
Date published: 2023-05-13T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Raghavendra Nayak from
It has good stability, but the customer service needs improvement
What is our primary use case?
We use the solution to access the internet connection.
What is most valuable?
The solution's most valuable feature is the ease of use.
What needs improvement?
The solution's technical support service could be better.
For how long have I used the solution?
We have been using the solution since 2011.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
It is a very stable solution.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
I rate the solution's scalability as an eight or nine.
How are customer service and support?
The solution's customer service team needs to be more responsive.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Negative
How was the initial setup?
The solution's initial setup process is a little complicated. But it gets easier after a certain point. I rate the process as an eight or nine. It takes half an hour to complete.
What about the implementation team?
We implemented the solution with the help of our in-house team.
What was our ROI?
The ROI for the solution is over 50% for us.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
It is a costly solution. I rate its pricing as a nine or ten.
What other advice do I have?
The solution is easy to set up. I rate it as a seven.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
Disclaimer: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Date published: 2023-04-20T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Kuldeep Bishnoi from
Reliable with unique capabilities and the ability to extend
What is our primary use case?
We primarily use the solution as an instant access point with a built in virtual controller. It's a wireless product.
What is most valuable?
No other wireless product has the same capabilities. With Aruba, users just need access points and do not need a controller. Access points can act as controllers. With 50 to 60 access points, we can use another Aruba product to help with management below 50 or 60 access points. If we have thousands of access points, at that point, we would need to go for a controller.
The solution can scale.
It is stable.
The initial setup is pretty straightforward.
Depending on the level of support you have (paid or standard), they are responsive.
What needs improvement?
We'd like to have a bit more artificial intelligence incorporated into existing products. It would give them more market gain and make their product more robust.
For how long have I used the solution?
I've been using the solution for five to six years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
The solution is quite stable. There are no bugs or glitches. It doesn't crash or freeze. It is reliable.
If you have a small setup, it's quite easy to manage. You don't need to have the big hardware in place. If you have a very large infrastructure setup you might need to have a traditional WiFi setup.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
It is quite scalable. How easy it is to expand depends on what scaling you are doing. For example, if you are adding more hardware or more access points. A small setup is quite easy to manage as you don't have so much hardware. However, a bigger setup might require additional WiFi expansion.
You can scale it to a great extent.
We're a small company. We have less than 50 users. That said, we also have clients that use the solution.
We do not have plans to increase usage.
How are customer service and support?
We've used technical support. They are pretty good. However, it depends on if you have a standard or paid support. Paid support allows you to call directly. Standard support is slower, and you need to communicate via email.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
We also use Cisco. I'm familiar with Juniper as well.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup isn't too difficult. You just need to have a bit of background knowledge. It's pretty straightforward.
The deployment depends on if you will use Aruba Central, a centralized could management platform, which makes the deployment easier. If you don't use that, you do need to do everything from scratch. The length of time it takes to deploy depends on the size of the setup. The physical mounting is always something that takes time. For the configuration, if you have configuration planning already in place, it won't take too long. It might take a week to a month for a smaller setup of 50 access points.
If you have all the test points mounted up and they have all been cabled towards POE switches, and they have the necessary firmware and everything in place, and you have also planning in place including what are the access IDs and what security measures will be taking place, then it will be quite fast to do it.
You only need one or two people to handle the initial setup.
What was our ROI?
I've not witnessed any ROI.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
They have various types of licensing to choose from. They have licenses for security and firewalls, et cetera. There are different licenses for products and different types of features as well.
Most licenses are subscription-based. There are a few perpetual licenses as well.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
I was looking at Juniper Mist and noted that this product has more AI. Aruba is not too evolved when it comes to AI.
What other advice do I have?
We're not necessarily on the latest version of the solution. We are due for an upgrade.
If someone has a smaller setup, Juniper may be a good option. However, with bigger setups and more unique features, Aruba is a good choice.
I'd rate the solution eight out of ten.
Disclaimer: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Date published: 2023-04-05T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Anson Liang from
Reliable with decent pricing and nice protection
What is our primary use case?
We primarily use the solution to control viruses. It's for security to protect access points.
What is most valuable?
The pricing is decent. The warranty is very good.
It is easy to use.
The security features are good. It offers nice protection.
It's stable and reliable.
The solution is scalable.
What needs improvement?
I don't have anything to complain about.
We'd like to have more security.
If they provided more updates that would be ideal.
For how long have I used the solution?
I've been using the solution for two to three years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
I'd rate the stability nine out of ten. It's pretty stable. There are no bugs or glitches. It's reliable enough for now.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
The solution can scale well. I'd rate the scalability eight or nine out of ten. It's easy to extend it.
We have two technical individuals that have Aruba certification that use it.
We do have plans to increase usage - if we increase users.
How are customer service and support?
I haven't really used technical support. We tend to be able to troubleshoot ourselves. So far, we haven't had any issues.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
I'm also familiar with Cisco, however, their warranties are not as good. We used to use Cisco Meraki. Aruba is less expensive.
How was the initial setup?
It is straightforward to set up. It doesn't take long to deploy. Usually, it takes one to two weeks. However, it depends on the company. How many people you need to deploy the solution depends on the size of the project.
What about the implementation team?
We had an internal team that was able to deploy it.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The pricing is good, and they offer very good warranties on the product. They offer permanent warranties - not just one or three-year warranties.
A key advantage for Aruba is that we pay for it outright and do not have recurring licensing costs.
What other advice do I have?
I'd recommend the solution to others. I'd rate the solution nine out of ten.
Disclaimer: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Date published: 2023-03-29T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Teck Ho Ting from
With good customer support in place, the stability might be affected due to bugs in the solution
What is our primary use case?
I use the solution for cloud operations.
What is most valuable?
It's just a normal tool. I would really say nothing is valuable to me about its features. It's not special.
It had been working in the past few years, but after aging, it has dropped down.
What needs improvement?
The solution has bugs. It really has bugs, and you have to wait until it happens, then you realize it. The aforementioned area can be considered for improvement.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using Aruba Networks Wireless WAN for five years. I am a customer of the solution.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
Scalability-wise, I rate the solution a five, six, or seven out of ten. It's not bad.
How are customer service and support?
I rate the support an eight out of ten since it is good.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Positive
How was the initial setup?
Regarding the initial setup, if one is difficult and ten is easy, I rate its setup a three to five. You have to be a big technical person to deploy the solution.
What other advice do I have?
I rate the solution a six or seven out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
Disclaimer: I am a real user, and this review is based on my own experience and opinions.
Date published: 2023-06-19T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Amos Chang from
Easy installation process and competitive pricing model
What is our primary use case?
We are a system integrator, and we provide solutions to our customers. Aruba Networks Wireless WAN is a solution that we offer to our customers. It provides wireless connectivity and has several features.
The main reasons our clients choose Aruba Networks are its strong server performance and competitive pricing. Additionally, Aruba's customer support is prompt and helpful. These are the main factors that influence our choice of Aruba Networks.
How has it helped my organization?
Aruba makes quite a lot of business for my company and its stability is quite good. There is no need to constantly maintain/support our customers.
What is most valuable?
The site survey tool is fantastic and saved us a lot of time in the early stage.
What needs improvement?
Configuration User Interface could be enhanced further to easy to understand what kind of effects will be.
For how long have I used the solution?
We have been working with Aruba Networks for more than ten years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
Generally, there aren't many problems with stability. It was good. Sometimes there could be configuration issues caused by users when they try to update or check the system.
I would rate the stability an eight out of ten.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
It is a scalable solution. Most of our clients are small to medium-sized businesses, and all are satisfied its scalability if they need to upgrade.
How are customer service and support?
Aruba's customer support is prompt and helpful.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Positive
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
We previously used Fortinet and switched because our customer decided to use their solution.
How was the initial setup?
The installation process was easy. Our engineers have extensive experience with Aruba Networks, so they are familiar with it and can handle any installation requirements.
Moreover, only two people are required for the maintenance of this solution.
What about the implementation team?
The deployment process depends on the customer's requirements. So, the deployment time may vary. Generally, the deployment process might take several days. Two people were enough for the deployment.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
I would rate the pricing model a three out of ten, with one being very cheap and ten being very expensive. We got a yearly license.
The additional costs depend on the specific case and situation. There might be different costs.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
We evaluated solutions from Cisco, Extreme, and Fortinet.
What other advice do I have?
I would definitely recommend it.
Overall, I would rate the solution an eight out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
Disclaimer: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer:Integrator
Date published: 2023-06-22T00:00:00-04:00
Rated 5 out of
5 by
Vivek Makhijani from
A very stable, secure, and reliable solution with regular updates
What is most valuable?
Aruba Networks Wireless WAN is very stable and reliable. In the solution, the first part is obviously its security part because security is what is concerning in any Wi-Fi situation. In the aforementioned scenario, Aruba Wi-Fi solutions are very secure. They have some Triple DES or whatever security standards are there. So, corporate people are comfortable using Aruba Wi-Fi, especially in any enterprise or SMB segment.
What needs improvement?
The price for the license could be a bit improved since it is the only area with an issue.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have experience using Aruba Networks Wireless WAN for years. I used to supply Aruba even before HP acquired Aruba. So, I used to supply it from eight to ten years ago.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
Aruba is a very stable system.
Most of the enterprise customers, big names, buy it without giving any second thoughts.
Stability-wise, I rate the solution a ten out of ten.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
I'm not aware of its scalability, but I have seen that a big complex, maybe a 14 to 15-story or 20-story building, can be covered up. Many hotels are covering it up. Also, they have around 10,000 users. Aruba Wi-Fi is very good.
Though not all are my customers, I am aware that many of the big hotels, like Marriot, work using Aruba. Few of the five-star hotels in and around Bombay.
Scalability-wise, I rate the solution a ten out of ten.
How are customer service and support?
Though I am not aware of the customer support, I am assuming it will be as per HP standards, which is quite good.
How was the initial setup?
The initial setup of the solution is simple, and the setup is as per industry standards. Hence, everybody has to follow the setup phase.
Regarding the time needed for deployment, the survey takes time, first of all. Then, you have to set up the Wi-Fi. Actually, if you talk about the installation part, installation takes time because different rooms and false ceilings are there, and so the installation of Wi-Fi takes time. Once the installation is done, the setting up of the Wi-Fi takes maybe a couple of hours. In short, the installation takes more time since it's more on the infrastructure side.
The solution is deployed on-premises.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
Aruba has an annual subscription, and they have three years and five years costs. People generally take the three years' cost. It has to be taken because, basically, licenses are needed more from the security perspective, nothing else.
It is expensive, but it is also very competitive. So I wouldn't say it is very high on the price. It can compete with many, many local players as well as equivalent players.
I rate the pricing a seven or eight on a scale of one to ten, where ten is the highest and one is the cheapest.
What other advice do I have?
Aruba has a very good reputation. Aruba products are very stable, and they give regular updates. Whatever Aruba has mentioned in their literature, regarding their bandwidth, etcetera, is correct. One can rely on what they write in their literature.
I would definitely recommend the solution to those planning to use it. In the Wi-Fi space, Aruba is an extremely good product.
For Aruba's software and hardware, I rate the solution a ten out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
Disclaimer: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer:Integrator
Date published: 2023-07-10T00:00:00-04:00