Aruba doesn't require a cloud controller, that's just the "Instant On" version. I used to run Aruba Instant (not the "instant on", no controller), but gave tho

Aruba doesn't require a cloud controller, that's just the "Instant On" version. I used to run Aruba Instant (not the "instant on", no controller), but gave those APs to a friend and now run an Aruba 7005 controller with 2x303H and a 324. Support/Licensing costs are totally worth it for having trouble-free WiFi with no cloud dependencies (context: using and supported UniFi in various roles since the first UAP came out, and I think was free for UWC attendees, though I could be confusing that with their first camera), but am network nerd that's comfortable with enterprise wifi.