What Is Cisco Meraki and Why Do MSPs Recommend It?
Cisco's cloud-managed networking line, and why MSPs recommend it.
Cisco Meraki is Cisco's line of cloud-managed networking equipment: security appliances and firewalls, switches, wireless access points, cameras and sensors, all configured and monitored from a single web dashboard. It is one of the most common platforms managed service providers standardize on for small and mid-sized businesses.
What makes it different
- Cloud management. Every device reports to the Meraki dashboard. Configuration, firmware updates, monitoring and troubleshooting happen from anywhere, without a technician on site.
- Multi-site visibility. Ten offices appear as one network with consistent templates, which is why it suits growing and multi-location companies.
- Built-in security. The MX security appliances include firewall, content filtering, intrusion detection and site-to-site VPN, with SD-WAN for using multiple internet links.
- Wireless. Access points with automatic channel and power tuning, guest networks, and analytics.
- Visibility. The dashboard shows which devices are connected, what they are doing and where problems are.
Licensing
Meraki hardware requires an active cloud license per device. When the license expires, the equipment stops being manageable and eventually stops passing traffic, so license renewals must be tracked. Licenses are typically bought for one, three, five or more years.
Why MSPs recommend it
Standard hardware plus remote management means faster support, consistent security across sites and fewer truck rolls. For the client it means one platform that is documented and monitored rather than a mix of consumer gear.
What it is not ideal for
Very small offices where a simple firewall is enough, or environments with unusual requirements that the dashboard does not expose. It also depends on the cloud for management (not for passing traffic), which some organizations weigh.
Support
Cisco provides support with an active license, but most day-to-day issues are resolved by whoever manages your dashboard. See how to get Cisco Meraki support. Placement of Meraki access points still depends on a wireless site survey, and securing the wireless side is covered in how to secure business and guest Wi-Fi.
Cisco Meraki is a Mentis Group partner platform. We provide Cisco Meraki support in Dallas-Fort Worth and design, deploy and manage Meraki networks as part of wireless network support and our managed IT services.
Have a question about your own environment? Schedule a consultation with Mentis Group or call (866) 901-7808.