Secure and scalable cloud-controlled networks are the ticket to the future and Cisco Meraki’s management platform might be the vehicle to get you there. Its cloud-based architecture helps customers create secure and easy-to-deploy networks, which can be managed remotely via the Meraki mobile app or the web-based Meraki dashboard.
However, many questions must be asked and are commonly asked about Meraki products. In this blog we will address several frequently asked questions about Meraki licensing, return on investment and more.
Here are Five FAQs about Cisco Meraki, which will help you identify if it is right for your business:
Is Cisco Meraki scalable? Yes! This product line boasts unlimited scaling capability thanks to their cloud-management system. New equipment, firmware updates and application signatures are all deployed over the web. This minimizes downtime and maximizes control. Meraki’s scalability and ease make it a great option for a range of users, from the small business that does not have a trained IT admin to the huge corporation with a massive distributed network.
Is it easy to deploy? Its plug-and-play feature allows Meraki to deploy in a matter of minutes. If a network is comprised of Meraki hardware, everything will be visible in the network. The mandatory Meraki license includes a lifetime warranty, so if a piece needs to be replaced, the dashboard also has the ability to apply configurations to the new device.
What about Meraki licenses? Unlike other companies, Meraki licenses are not bundled into the purchase. Rather, they are sold in increments of 1, 3, 5, 7 or 10 years. The longer the increment, the less you pay. Once a license has expired, users have 30 days to buy a new license, otherwise the hardware will become unusable. There is no getting around the expense of Meraki licenses once you buy in, but customers do not seem vexed by this. Excellent customer service and the ease of use appear to be worth it to the right crowd. The real question is, is it worth it to you?
What is included in the license? The license includes a lifetime hardware warranty which has a next-business-day replacement clause, lifetime unlimited technical support and lifetime software, OS and firmware updates. This guarantees a long-term return on investment.
Can I buy Meraki second hand? You are advised to purchase Meraki devices directly from the authorized Cisco dealers. Upon purchase, ownership can be transferred among third parties with certain restrictions. However, certain restrictions and provisions come into play. Buying from a third party may be cheaper but nonetheless, could end up costing you more in the long run.
Cloud controller licenses and warranties are not transferrable. Should a second-hand device fail, it won’t be eligible for an RMA. This may lead to further out-of-pocket expenses. This highlights why it is advisable to buy directly from Cisco authorized dealers.
Have more questions?
There are a lot of benefits to purchasing Cisco Meraki equipment and many of our customers do. However, it’s important to note your company’s unique needs. We are here to help you figure out which brand is right for you! Contact us and we can help direct you to equipment that complements your business.