In today’s wireless-driven world, reliable Wi-Fi coverage is essential in every setting—whether it’s an office, hotel, school, or shopping center. But many businesses still struggle with poor signal quality, dead zones, and limited capacity. That’s where the MikroTik cAP XL ac comes in. This high-powered ceiling access point combines long-range wireless coverage, enterprise-grade performance, and user-friendly features—all in a sleek, low-profile design that blends into modern interiors.
If you’re looking for a professional-grade wireless access point that can handle dense environments without breaking the bank, the MikroTik RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL is worth serious consideration.
MikroTik RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL
The MikroTik cAP XL ac (RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL) is a dual-band ceiling access point designed for high-density indoor deployments. It builds on the success of MikroTik’s earlier cAP ac models, offering significantly improved antenna gain and coverage thanks to its redesigned antenna and larger physical size.
This device supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands simultaneously, making it ideal for environments where multiple users connect at once. It’s powered by a 4-core CPU and features 256MB of RAM, enabling strong multi-user performance without bottlenecks. With support for 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) and full backward compatibility with older standards, the cAP XL ac ensures seamless connectivity for all types of client devices.
Key Features of MikroTik cAP XL ac
Let’s break down the standout features that make this device a smart choice for business and enterprise deployments:
1. Extended Wireless Range
The “XL” in its name stands for “extra large,” and that’s not just marketing talk. The redesigned antenna offers up to 360° omnidirectional coverage, providing better signal penetration through walls and ceilings. This means fewer access points are needed to cover large spaces—saving on installation and maintenance costs.
2. Dual-Band Simultaneous Transmission
The RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL transmits simultaneously on 2.4 GHz (802.11b/g/n) and 5 GHz (802.11a/n/ac), supporting up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band and 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band. This dual-band capability ensures optimal performance, particularly in environments with mixed legacy and modern client devices.
3. Powerful Internal Antenna
The device features a built-in 6 dBi gain antenna for 2.4 GHz and 5.5 dBi for 5 GHz, improving overall signal strength and reducing dead zones. It’s perfect for high-interference environments like hotels, offices, and public venues.
4. PoE In and Out Support
It supports Passive PoE input (18-57V) and features PoE output on the second Ethernet port—perfect for powering another MikroTik device like an IP camera or another access point.
5. Multiple Operating Modes
Whether you need a wireless access point, a wireless bridge, or a repeater, the cAP XL ac offers flexible configuration options via RouterOS, MikroTik’s versatile and feature-rich operating system.
6. Sleek Design
Its ceiling-mount form factor is unobtrusive and designed to blend into modern interiors. It also includes mounting hardware for easy installation on ceilings or walls.
Benefits of Using MikroTik cAP XL ac
Why choose the MikroTik RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL over competing access points? Here are some of the key benefits:
- Improved Coverage: Covers a larger area with fewer access points, making it cost-effective for large deployments.
- Enterprise Performance: Designed for high-density environments—supporting many simultaneous users without lag or drops.
- Easy Management: Manage centrally using MikroTik’s CAPsMAN controller or integrate with your existing RouterOS infrastructure.
- Cost Efficiency: Offers powerful performance at a much lower price compared to other enterprise wireless brands.
- Flexible Power Options: Use it with your existing PoE infrastructure and daisy-chain additional devices via the PoE-out port.
Where Can You Use MikroTik cAP XL ac?
The MikroTik RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL is suitable for any indoor deployment where extended wireless coverage is needed. Here are some ideal use cases:
- Hotels and Hospitality: Install one in each hallway or shared space for seamless guest connectivity.
- Office Buildings: Support dozens of simultaneous users with enterprise-grade throughput.
- Educational Institutions: Cover classrooms, lecture halls, and libraries with stable and fast Wi-Fi.
- Retail Spaces: Keep POS systems, customer devices, and staff connected without interruption.
- Public Areas: Airports, malls, museums, and libraries can all benefit from extended range and centralized management.
How to Set Up MikroTik cAP XL ac
Getting the cAP XL ac up and running is straightforward, even for non-experts. It comes preconfigured as a CAP (Controlled Access Point), and when used with CAPsMAN, you can manage multiple access points from a central router.
To install:
- Mount the device on a ceiling or wall using the included bracket.
- Connect Ethernet cable to the Ether1 port and supply PoE power.
- Log into the MikroTik interface (via WebFig or Winbox).
- Configure your wireless settings or connect to your CAPsMAN controller.
- Optionally, use Ether2 with PoE-out to power another MikroTik device.
With RouterOS’s advanced features, you can fine-tune VLANs, security, bandwidth control, and user authentication as needed.
Improve Coverage in Large Venues with Mesh
If you’re managing a large multi-floor environment, consider building a MikroTik mesh network using cAP XL ac units. With PoE-out on the second Ethernet port, you can daisy-chain access points without needing additional power sources, minimizing cabling while maximizing range.
Best Practices for Managing MikroTik cAP XL ac
To get the best performance and reliability from your MikroTik RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL, here are a few best practices:
- Use CAPsMAN: MikroTik’s centralized management tool helps you easily control multiple APs from a single point.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly update RouterOS to ensure the latest features and security patches are applied.
- Optimize Channel Selection: Reduce interference by setting custom channels on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
- Enable Band Steering: Guide dual-band clients toward the 5 GHz band for better performance.
- Monitor Load and Traffic: Use built-in tools in RouterOS to keep track of user load and network usage.
Technical Specifications of MikroTik RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL
Specification | Details |
---|---|
Product Code | RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL |
CPU | IPQ-4018 (Quad-core, 716 MHz) |
RAM | 256 MB DDR3 |
Storage | 16 MB Flash |
Wireless Standards | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (Dual-band) |
2.4 GHz Max Data Rate | 300 Mbps |
5 GHz Max Data Rate | 867 Mbps |
Antenna Gain (2.4 GHz) | 6 dBi |
Antenna Gain (5 GHz) | 5.5 dBi |
Ethernet Ports | 2 × 10/100/1000 Mbps |
PoE Input | Passive PoE 18-57V (on Ether1) |
PoE Output | Passive PoE (on Ether2, max 57V, 0.5A) |
Max Power Consumption | 24 W |
Mounting | Ceiling and Wall Mount (bracket included) |
Operating System | RouterOS, License Level 4 |
Dimensions | Ø 185 mm x 31 mm |
Operating Temperature | -40°C to +70°C |
Wireless Chains | 2 (2×2 MIMO on both bands) |
Final Thoughts
The MikroTik cAP XL ac (RBcAPGi-5acD2nD-XL) is an excellent solution for anyone looking to deploy a scalable, high-performance wireless network indoors. Its powerful antenna design, dual-band capabilities, and PoE flexibility make it a go-to choice for businesses, schools, and public venues. Whether you’re upgrading an outdated network or building a new wireless setup from scratch, the cAP XL ac delivers the performance and reliability you need—without the enterprise price tag.
Emily Davis –
Coverage is excellent across our warehouse. ITMan’s pre-sales advice on placement was spot on.