--- title: Simultaneous Wi-Fi and Cisco URWB on One Access Point description: Cisco now runs Wi-Fi and Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB) on the same access point. What changes and where it fits on industrial sites. --- [Blog](https://blog.iptel.com.au) # [Simultaneous Wi-Fi and Cisco URWB on One Access Point](https://blog.iptel.com.au/introducing-simultaneous-wi-fi-and-urwb) Written by [Mark McSherry](https://blog.iptel.com.au/author/mark-mcsherry) | 19 January 2026, 1:00:03 am Z In [this previous blog](https://blog.iptel.com.au/cisco-ultra-reliable-wireless-backhaul-explained), we discussed the Cisco CURWB architecture, where Cisco CURWB required a dedicated infrastructure using devices like the IW9167 and IW9167-APs. The good news is that Cisco has now introduced a unified solution: Cisco wireless can now support both Wi-Fi and Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul on a single hardware platform, bringing URWB functionality into a unified architecture. The question you might have is: why is this important? This new innovation allows the use of one Access Point variant that can run both Wi-Fi and CURWB: no need to duplicate APs any longer. CURWB is used for devices such as vehicle automation that need very low latency - now two devices are combined into one. Related reading - [Cisco URB](https://iptel.com.au/services/cisco-urb) - [Cisco Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul Explained](https://blog.iptel.com.au/cisco-ultra-reliable-wireless-backhaul-explained) ## Why is CURWB Important? There is a slight terminology difference between the standard CURWB architecture and Cisco’s Unified URWB approach. In the unified model: - The **Mesh End Gateway** is now called the **Coordinator**. - The **MeshPoint** (whether fixed or vehicle-based) is now referred to as a **Node**. Role selection happens per radio or slot, and all radio types can support Wi-Fi. URWB is currently available only on the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands (2.4 GHz is not supported yet). This functionality starts with IOS-XE 17.18.1 and does not require a separate AP mode, making deployment much simpler. All configuration and management are centralised through the Wireless LAN Controller (WLC). Key highlights of the unified architecture: - Single software image – no need to dual-boot separate URWB and Wi-Fi images. - URWB can be enabled per radio or per AP without requiring a dedicated mode. - Supported on APs running both Local and FlexConnect mode. - All URWB/WGB APs are managed by the 9800 WLC. - The standalone URWB architecture will continue to be supported. Image copyright Cisco Systems Related reading - [Wireless as a Service](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wireless-as-a-service) ## Supported Hardware There's a range of hardware that you can run URWB on - see the image below: Image copyright Cisco Systems Related reading - [Securing your Cisco Wireless Network](https://blog.iptel.com.au/securing-your-cisco-wireless-network) ## How to configure Wireless/URWB using 9800 WLC The Cisco 9800 WLC is the core of any Cisco wireless network and is the central point in managing the URWB and Wi-Fi installs: **Image copyright Cisco Systems** As many of you know, the Cisco 9800 WLC uses a profile- and tag-based configuration model. Starting from version 17.18.1, a new option called the **URWB Network Profile** is introduced. All URWB settings—such as radio roles and channel configurations—are applied within this profile. The URWB Network Profile can then be linked to the RF Tag, alongside the standard RF profiles for 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. Image copyright Cisco Systems We previously discussed the Mesh End Gateway, which served as the connection point between the wireless and wired networks for all mesh points in a standard CURWB deployment. In the unified architecture, this role is replaced by the **Coordinator**. The following explains how to configure the coordinator role on a Cisco 9800 WLC. Image copyright Cisco Systems ## Licensing URWB functionalities are included as part of the current **DNA** or **Unified Licensing** model. For Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, and Wi-Fi 7 platforms, the required licence depends on the deployment type. URWB **fixed infrastructure** (point-to-point links) requires **DNA Essentials** or **Cisco Wireless Essentials**, while URWB **mobility** (mobile assets) requires **DNA Advantage** or **Cisco Wireless Advantage**. **URWB design guidelines:** - **6 GHz standard power** (requiring AFC) is **not supported** on URWB radios. - L3 architectures are **not supported**; all APs in the same URWB network must be in the **same Layer 2 domain** (mostly affects mobility deployments). - **6 GHz LPI** for mobile assets is supported in the **US only** (not in Australia). - URWB is limited to **two or fewer 5 GHz or 6 GHz radios per AP**. - **SD-Access (Wireless Fabric)** is **not supported**; URWB is supported as part of an **SDA underlay**. - URWB supports **only one wired network port per AP**. - URWB **cannot split VLANs at the AP port**; a switch is required. - **IW Monitor** has limited URWB support, with more functionality coming in **IW Monitor 3.0**. - URWB is subject to **processing throughput ceilings**, which vary by platform. Related reading - [Wi-Fi Design](https://iptel.com.au/services/wi-fi-surveys) - [Wi-Fi Deployment](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-deployment) ## Simultaneous Wi-Fi and URWB: FAQs ### What Is Cisco URWB? Cisco Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB, formerly Fluidmesh) is a wireless technology for moving vehicles and machines that need very low latency and seamless handoffs, such as automated vehicles, cranes, trains and mining equipment. ### Can One Access Point Run Wi-Fi and URWB at the Same Time? Yes. With Cisco's unified approach, supported industrial access points can serve normal Wi-Fi clients and run URWB on the same hardware, so you no longer need two separate sets of APs. ### Where Is URWB Used? URWB suits ports, mines, rail, warehouses with automated vehicles and other industrial sites where a moving machine must stay connected without the brief interruptions normal Wi-Fi roaming can cause. ### Do I Still Need a Separate Wireless Design for URWB? Yes. URWB and Wi-Fi share hardware but have different coverage and latency requirements, so both should be designed and tested onsite, especially along vehicle routes. ## Simultaneous Wi-Fi and CURWB: Summary Cisco has made things easier by combining Wi-Fi and Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB) into one platform. No more separate hardware or software—everything runs on a single image and is managed through the 9800 Wireless LAN Controller.   URWB works on 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands starting with IOS-XE 17.18.1, and setup is simpler thanks to the new URWB Network Profile. There are a few name changes too: the Mesh End Gateway is now called the Coordinator, and MeshPoint is now a Node.   Licensing is included under Cisco DNA, and while some design limitations still apply, this unified approach makes deployment much more straightforward. If you'd like to talk to us about undertaking CURWB for your business, drop us a line on our quote request form: [https://info.iptel.com.au/request-a-quote](https://iptel.com.au/request-a-quote)  ### Need Help With Industrial Wireless? IPTel designs [Cisco URWB](https://iptel.com.au/services/cisco-urb) and industrial Wi-Fi for ports, mines and logistics sites. If that would be useful, [get in touch with the IPTel team](https://iptel.com.au/contact-us) or email [sales@iptel.com.au](mailto:sales@iptel.com.au). 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