Cisco Meraki products offer complete cloud management, allowing you to seamlessly configure, optimize, and monitor your network, security appliances, and more—all from the Meraki dashboard. With automatic software updates, your devices are always up to date, ensuring the highest level of security.
However, many of these features can be restricted if you purchase Meraki products from uncertified sources or if they are improperly configured. Before investing in or accepting used Meraki equipment, it's important to consider the potential impact on network security, support, warranties, licenses, and overall usability.
Buying A Used Cisco Meraki Device
Buying used Meraki devices can be a viable option for business owners working with a tight budget. These devices are often sold at a much lower price than new ones, offering significant cost savings. Additionally, older Meraki models that may no longer be available through official channels are sometimes still in circulation, making used equipment an appealing choice for businesses needing specific models or looking for budget-friendly alternatives.
However, while used Meraki devices can save money upfront, they come with certain risks. It's important to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages before purchasing used equipment to ensure it aligns with your business needs.
Advantages
While buying a used Meraki device can come with some risks, there are notable advantages that may make it a worthwhile investment, especially for businesses on a tight budget.
- Cheaper price: The reduced price is the most attractive aspect of purchasing used Meraki devices. For companies looking to minimize expenses, the savings on used equipment can free up resources for other areas of the business.
- Availability of older models: Older Meraki models that have been discontinued can still be found on the used market. For organizations that prefer or require these models, buying used equipment allows access to these devices without compromising their network setup.
- Reduced depreciation: New devices lose value quickly, but used Meraki devices have already gone through most of their depreciation. This means your investment holds its value more steadily over time.
- Lower total cost of ownership: The lower upfront cost, combined with reduced depreciation, can lead to a lower total cost of ownership for used devices, making them an appealing option for businesses looking to stretch their IT budgets.
Disadvantages
Despite the cost savings, you should be aware of several potential drawbacks to buying used Meraki devices before making a final decision.
- Lack of proper support and warranty: One of the biggest downsides to buying used is the lack of support and warranty. If the device malfunctions, you may have to bear the cost of repairs or replacements on your own. In addition, you may need to pay for support out of pocket as Cisco will most likely not cover the device for technical support calls and hardware replacement. Just one of these issues will be quickly absorbed with the upfront cost saved. Pay now or pay later.
- Potential compatibility issues: Older used models may not be fully compatible with the latest software features or updates, limiting their functionality in modern network environments. Network security is a big concern and you may be leaving yourself wide-open to threats otherwise easily avoided. What does that cost your business?
- Possible wear and tear: The condition of used devices is not guaranteed. Hidden wear and tear can result in a shorter lifespan or reduced performance, potentially negating the initial savings. The original owner may also have the device claimed in their Meraki dashboard, which makes the unit in your hand a brick.
- Limited or no software licensing: Meraki devices require a valid license to operate within their cloud management system. Used devices come without a current license, and purchasing new ones can add significant costs, reducing the overall value of buying used ones.
Are Existing Meraki Licenses Usable After Buying Used Equipment?
One crucial factor to consider when purchasing used Cisco Meraki devices is the status of the software licenses. Cisco Meraki licenses are non-transferable, meaning that when you acquire a used device, any existing license tied to that equipment cannot be transferred to a new owner. As a result, you will need to purchase a new license to activate and manage the device through the Meraki Cloud dashboard.
This is a critical point for business owners to be aware of because the cost of purchasing a new license could offset the savings from buying the device used. Without a valid license, the device cannot access crucial features such as security updates, configuration options, and technical support. Therefore, while used Meraki equipment may offer initial cost savings, the additional expense of licensing must be factored into the overall cost of ownership. Since the license is tied to support, warranty, and updates- you would be paying for a license that you are only using 30% of its value because you will not be able to take advantage of warranty and support that normally is included in the license cost.
In most cases, buying a new license directly from a certified Meraki partner is the best way to ensure your equipment is fully functional and compliant with Cisco's policies.
Things You Need To Do To Use A Used Meraki Device
If you've decided to purchase a used Meraki device, there are several essential steps you'll need to take to ensure it works properly within your network. Used Meraki equipment requires specific actions to restore functionality, enable management capabilities, and ensure proper integration with your existing systems. These steps are essential to avoid potential issues with licensing, configuration, and performance.
Device Must Be Unclaimed By The Previous Owner
A used Meraki device must first be unclaimed by the previous owner to function correctly in your network. Devices are tied to their assigned networks, so if the previous owner hasn't removed it, you won't be able to claim it in your own Meraki dashboard.
Claiming A Meraki Device
Devices work within their assigned networks. To set up your used device, you'll need to claim it by entering its serial number in your Meraki dashboard. If you're having trouble with this step, the device may still be linked to the previous owner's network, and you won't be able to complete the process.
Unclaiming A Meraki Device
If you see a message like "The following device is already in use," it means the previous owner has not unclaimed the device from their network. Meraki cannot unclaim a device from a network, so the previous owner must remove the device themselves. However, the device may have changed hands multiple times, and you may not be able to reach the original owner to have it unclaimed. You may have just bought a brick. Be aware.
Once unclaimed, you can claim the device on your network and manage it through your dashboard. You'll be able to search for it using the MAC address, network name, order number, serial number, or model number.
Check The Existing Cisco Meraki License
Due to Meraki's cloud-managed platform, licenses are mandatory and sold separately from the hardware. These licenses can be purchased or renewed in increments of 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 years, and they provide essential services such as 24/7 customer support, hardware replacement, operating system updates, firmware upgrades, and basic device functionality.
Your Meraki dashboard will notify you when a license is approaching expiration, with reminders sent 30 days and 3 days before it expires. After expiration, a 30-day grace period begins, during which the device will still function. However, if the license is not renewed by the end of this period, the device will become inoperable.
The longer the license period you choose, the lower the overall cost. Meraki licenses are renewed using a co-termination model, meaning all licenses in your network renew at the same time, regardless of when they were originally purchased. If you add a new license with a different duration, it is adjusted to match the renewal date of your existing licenses.
When purchasing used Meraki equipment, it's important to remember that licenses are non-transferable. Even if the previous owner had several years remaining on their license, you will need to purchase a new license to use the equipment on your network.
How Hummingbird Networks Can Help You In Choosing The Best Cisco Meraki Devices
When selecting the right Cisco Meraki devices for your business, Hummingbird Networks is here to guide you every step of the way. As an experienced and trusted Meraki partner, we offer a range of services designed to help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your IT investment.
At Hummingbird Networks, we understand that every business has unique networking needs. Whether you're looking for new or refurbished Meraki equipment, our team of experts is equipped to help you evaluate your requirements, assess the best options, and ensure you choose the devices that fit your specific operational goals and budget.
Our product offerings include only the latest Meraki models as well as different financing and payment options if you run into budget constraints. We also provide detailed advice on cloud licensing and how it impacts the total cost of ownership. We'll ensure you're aware of the non-transferable nature of Meraki licenses and guide you through the process of purchasing or renewing licenses to keep your network running smoothly.
In addition, we offer post-purchase support, including setup, configuration assistance, and troubleshooting. With Meraki’s 24/7 technical support and expert guidance, we'll ensure that your Meraki devices are fully operational and optimized to meet your business needs.
Make Sure That You Are Using The Best Cisco Meraki Device Possible
Whether you're considering new or used Meraki devices, prioritizing quality is essential for long-term success. New devices offer the reliability and performance your business needs to keep your network running smoothly. Choosing authorized new Cisco Meraki equipment and ensuring it meets your business requirements allows you to enjoy robust features, security updates, and support services that protect your investment over time.
While used Meraki devices can be a cost-effective solution, verifying their condition, licensing status, and compatibility with your current systems is important. When you engage with us, we will make sure that you are always investing in the best network infrastructure that meets your budget and business needs — fewer disruptions, better security, and scalability to support your business growth.
At Hummingbird Networks, we're committed to helping you find the right Meraki devices that offer the best value for your long-term needs. By focusing on quality and reliability, you can set your business up for future success, knowing that your network is secure, scalable, and ready to grow with you.
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