The cloud model means failover is assured should a controller go on the fritz, because the functionality resides in multiple geographically diverse data centers. And, you'll never needs to upgrade controller hardware--a real boon to those who must maintain dozens of these devices, each with hundreds of access points attached. Deployment is a snap as well; simply plug the order number into the dashboard, and watch your APs come to life when plugged in. And the prices--the MR-14 802.11n AP lists for $799, and a Cloud Controller License is priced at $300 per AP for three years--are a fraction of the cost of the competition.
There are tradeoffs with the Meraki model, however. For example, on most thin wireless systems, you need only a single VLAN to the AP switch port, and traffic for multiple SSIDs and networks is tunneled back to the controller in a lightweight wireless protocol. For the Meraki APs, each SSID/VLAN combination needs representation at the connected network switch port, making for a busier--and potentially more fragile--VLAN environment. Meraki 802.11n APs have transmitter and receiver counts of 2x2, while competitors offer 2X3 and 3X3. Rogue detection is nonexistent in the Meraki dashboard. Even if you don't go out and bust rogues, there is value in knowing what is present. On floor plans that reflect signal strengths between clients and access points, Meraki does not allow the administrator to add attenuation sources, like walls.
With those caveats in mind, Meraki's Cloud Controller is a no-brainer for small and multisite businesses, and a good choice for large environments with fairly static wireless needs. It works, and combined with Meraki's other wireless infrastructure offerings, including mesh links and solar-powered APs, affords a robust wireless framework at a discount price. For complex environments, however, Meraki may be able to deliver on the promise of lower TCO, but be aware of the trade-offs.
Bob Friday, Chief AI Officer for Juniper Networks, explains how the advanced technology is transforming operations.
Contact center leaders from 8x8, Awaken Intelligence, and 360insight discuss the importance of agent experience.
AI may force enterprises to rewire parts of their data centers so they are fully optimized to run such workloads. The question is do you use Ethernet or InfiniBand?
