Sophos APX 530 - User Manual

By Author
Operating Instructions
APX 320/530/740

Summary

APX Series Hardware Overview

Component Descriptions

Provides descriptions for Status LED, Ethernet ports, Console port, Reset button, and Kensington Lock.

Access Point LED Status Indicators

Sophos Central Setup Guide

Guides users on how to configure the access point using the Sophos Central management platform.

Access Point Reboot and Reset Procedures

APX 320 Technical Specifications

APX 320 Performance Data

APX 530 Technical Specifications

APX 530 Performance Data

APX 740 Technical Specifications

APX 740 Performance Data

Access Point Mounting Options

Standard Wall and Ceiling Rail Mount

Ceiling Mount Installation

Wall Mount Installation

Flat Ceiling Mount Installation

Plenum Mount Installation

Suspend Mount Installation

Serial Console Connection Guide

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The Sophos APX Series access points are high-performance wireless products designed to provide a best-in-class user experience, leveraging the latest 802.11ac Wave 2 technology. These devices are primarily intended for use in network environments where robust and secure wireless connectivity is required.

Function Description:

The core function of the Sophos APX Series access points is to provide wireless network access. They operate by connecting to a network and broadcasting Wi-Fi signals, allowing client devices to connect and access network resources or the internet. A key feature of these access points is their seamless integration with Sophos Central, a cloud-based security management platform. This integration allows for automatic discovery and configuration of the access points, making deployment straightforward. Once plugged into the network, the device automatically finds the cloud-based controller and becomes operational within seconds. Management through Sophos XG Firewall is also supported, with availability planned for specific maintenance releases.

The access points are designed to be managed remotely, simplifying administration for network administrators. This includes initial setup, configuration changes, and monitoring of operational status. The devices are equipped with an LED indicator that provides visual feedback on their operational state, including boot status, firmware updates, and error conditions. This allows for quick diagnosis of basic issues without needing to access the management interface.

For advanced users or troubleshooting, the access points include a console port (RJ45) that allows support staff to access the Command Line Interface (CLI) by making a serial connection. This provides a deeper level of control and diagnostic capability.

Usage Features:

The Sophos APX Series offers several features that enhance its usability and deployment flexibility:

• Easy Deployment: The access points are designed for quick and easy setup. By simply connecting the device to a PoE-capable network source, it can automatically connect to Sophos Central for configuration. This "plug-and-play" approach minimizes manual intervention during initial deployment.
• Power over Ethernet (PoE): The primary Ethernet port (Eth0) supports PoE, meaning the device can receive both data and power through a single Ethernet cable. This eliminates the need for a separate power adapter, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter. For models like the APX 530/740, an additional Ethernet port (Eth1) is available as an alternative data port, though it does not provide power.
• Flexible Mounting Options: The access points come with a mounting bracket that supports various installation scenarios. These include ceiling mounts for different ceiling track sizes (15/16", 3/8", and 9/16"), flush ceiling tiles, and wall mount hang. Optional mounting kits are available for flat ceiling and plenum mounting, as well as suspend mounting, providing versatility to suit different physical environments. The mounting process involves fixing the bracket to the access point, then securing it to the desired surface, and finally attaching the access point to the mounted bracket.
• Network Connectivity: Both Ethernet ports (Eth0 and Eth1, where available) are 10/100/1000 Mbps compatible and feature auto-negotiation for speed and duplex settings, ensuring optimal performance with connected network devices.
• Security Features: The integration with Sophos Central allows for centralized security management, ensuring that the wireless network is protected according to defined policies. The device also includes a Kensington security slot, enabling physical securing of the access point with a lock and cable to deter theft.
• LED Status Indicators: The front-facing LED provides immediate visual cues about the device's status. Different colors and flashing patterns indicate various states such as off, normal operation, booting, connecting to the wireless controller, applying configuration, no connection, not claimed by the controller, error conditions, configuration reset in progress, and firmware updates. This helps users quickly understand the device's current state and identify potential issues.

Maintenance Features:

The Sophos APX Series includes features designed to facilitate maintenance and troubleshooting:

• Remote Management: Through Sophos Central, administrators can perform various maintenance tasks remotely, such as monitoring device health, applying configuration changes, and initiating reboots or resets. This centralized management capability reduces the need for on-site intervention.
• Reboot and Reset Functionality: The access points are equipped with a reset button that allows for two types of resets:
  • Reboot with current image and configuration: A short press and release of the reset button will reboot the device while retaining its current configuration. The LED will go off and then turn solid green.
  • Reboot with current image and clear configuration (factory default reset): Pressing and holding the reset button for a longer duration (approximately 5 seconds) will initiate a factory default reset. The LED will go off, then briefly turn green, then turn solid red for 5 seconds (during which the reset can still be canceled by releasing the button), and finally blink red as the configuration is cleared. After releasing the button, the AP reboots with factory default settings. This feature is crucial for troubleshooting persistent issues or preparing the device for redeployment.
• Firmware Updates: The devices support firmware updates, which are often managed automatically through Sophos Central. The LED status indicates when a firmware update is in progress, and users are advised not to disconnect power or reboot the device during this critical period, as it can take more than 15 minutes for the first-time update.
• Serial Console Access: For in-depth diagnostics and troubleshooting, the RJ45 console port provides direct access to the device's CLI. This is particularly useful for support staff to diagnose complex issues that cannot be resolved through the web interface or LED indicators. The required connection settings (bits per second, data bits, parity, stop bits) are standard, ensuring compatibility with common terminal emulation programs.
• Documentation and Support: Sophos provides comprehensive documentation, including a Quick Start Guide, Safety Instructions, and Operating Instructions, along with additional resources on their Knowledgebase. This ensures that users have access to the necessary information for installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.

Sophos APX 530 Specifications