Integration, Migration, and Operations
Integration
Aruba integrates with identity providers (Active Directory, LDAP, SAML), SIEM tools, ITSM platforms, and third-party NAC via ClearPass. Understand API-based integration (REST), syslog forwarding, and how Central connects to external services. Know the role of ClearPass in integrating with MDM/EMM for device context.
Migration
Common migrations: AOS-S to AOS-CX, controller-based wireless to gateway-based or Central-managed, and AirWave to Central. Plan migrations in phases: inventory, design, pilot, rollout, decommission. Understand coexistence - AOS-S and AOS-CX can run in parallel, and instant APs can be converted to controller/gateway-managed mode (and back).
Operations
Day-2 operations include firmware management, configuration backup, licensing, and change control. Central provides firmware compliance and configuration audit. Know that AOS-CX supports checkpoint/rollback and that configuration can be exported via API.
Traps
- Assuming AOS-S and AOS-CX share the same CLI - they differ significantly.
- Forgetting that AP conversion between modes is possible but disruptive.
- Overlooking licensing implications when moving from AirWave to Central.
- Assuming migration requires a big-bang cutover - phased is preferred.
Worked example
Migrating 200 AOS-S switches to AOS-CX: inventory current configs, map features to CX equivalents (VSF, ACLs, QoS), pilot 10 switches, validate with Central, then roll out in waves while keeping AOS-S online for rollback.