What is the first step to deploy an AP device on your network?

Enabling the Gateway Wireless Controller on the Firebox device is crucial because it allows the Firebox to manage the access points effectively. This controller is responsible for the configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of the access points within the network. Without activating the Gateway Wireless Controller, the Firebox cannot manage the AP devices, which means that the deployment process cannot proceed. This step establishes the necessary framework for managing wireless networks, including assigning SSIDs, connecting devices to the proper VLANs, and ensuring overall wireless capabilities are secure and functional.

While pairing the AP device and the Firebox, connecting the AP to a VLAN, and configuring SSIDs are all important steps in the deployment process, they rely on the Gateway Wireless Controller being enabled first to properly orchestrate these functionalities.