What Is Cisco Meraki Used For?

Cisco is a name you might recognize if you’ve spent any time around IT or tech. Its logo, resembling the Golden Gate Bridge, is hard to miss. What is Cisco Meraki used for, and why has it become such a staple in modern networking? Meraki began as a mesh network project within MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab (CSAIL) with a mission: Give students free, reliable wireless internet. The experiment worked, and the technology attracted Cisco’s interest, leading to Meraki’s acquisition in 2012.

Cisco Meraki is a name synonymous with cloud-managed networking today. For example, Meraki is a network hardware company that integrates multiple IT functions into one streamlined toolkit, including firewalls, switches, wireless access points, security cameras, and mobile device management. However, why is it so important for businesses? Let’s break it down

A Brief History of Cisco Meraki

Originally a small startup with a big idea, Cisco Meraki established our vision: create a scalable cloud-managed network so simple you can deploy and manage from anywhere. Cisco didn’t just acquire Meraki’s technology but also its innovative approach. Since then, Cisco Meraki has been revolutionizing networking by bringing cloud-based simplicity to enterprises and businesses of all sizes.

Since its inception, Meraki’s streamlined approach to cloud management has gained popularity in industries as diverse as retail, healthcare, education, and logistics. But what exactly is Cisco Meraki used for? Let’s look at five key areas.

What Is Cisco Meraki Used For? 5 Key Areas Explained

1. Cisco Meraki Firewalls: Network Security Made Simple

Cisco Meraki firewalls are built to handle modern-day threats, because network security is not negotiable, in the present day. The MX series from Meraki is a line of next-generation firewalls with integrated SD-WAN that provide both security and performance.

So, what makes Meraki firewalls different?

• Cloud-Based Management: Easily monitor and manage security settings from anywhere.
• Layer 7 Traffic Analysis: Control traffic by application, not just IP address.
• Advanced Threat Protection: Cisco Talos provides real-time threat intelligence to block malicious activity.
• Zero-Touch Deployment: Deploy devices remotely at hundreds of sites without the need for IT teams to physically attend on-site.
• VPN Capabilities: Site-to-site VPNs enable branch offices to connect seamlessly.

Meraki firewalls help businesses managing multiple locations keep their data secure.

2. Cisco Meraki Switches: Connecting the Dots

Switches are the heart of any network. Cisco Meraki switches (MS series) connect computers, printers, and access points, enabling seamless device communication.

Here’s how businesses use Meraki switches:

• Office Networks: Connect computers, phones, and printers to a secure, high-performance network.
• Industrial Automation: Connect your machinery to control rooms for safer operations.
• IoT Integration: Provide support for devices running on the same network such as security cameras and entry systems.

The great thing about Meraki switches is their simplicity. Using the Meraki dashboard, you can get live traffic analysis, and optimize settings to alleviate problems—there’s no need to go into any complex configurations.

3. Cisco Meraki Wireless Access Points: Reliable WiFi Everywhere

WiFi is more than a convenience; it is a necessity in guiding and promoting productivity. Cisco Meraki wireless access points (MR series) provide secure, high-speed wireless connectivity throughout offices, schools, retail stores, and more.

So, what is Cisco Meraki used for when it comes to wireless access?

• Easy Deployment: Plug in the device, and it’s ready to go. Configuration happens through the cloud.
• Scalable Coverage: Expand WiFi across large areas without extensive rewiring.
• Location Analytics: Track visitor patterns and device usage to optimize layouts and operations.
• Built-In Security: Features like identity-based firewalls help keep unauthorized users out.

For businesses with high foot traffic or multiple floors, Meraki access points ensure everyone stays connected.

4. Cisco Meraki Cameras: Smart Security, Simplified

Security cameras aren’t just for recording break-ins anymore. Cisco Meraki MV cameras offer smart video surveillance with cloud-managed access and analytics.

Businesses use Meraki cameras for more than just security. They provide:

• Real-Time Monitoring: Monitor your site from anywhere with Internet access.
• Motion Detection and Heat Mapping: Analyze foot traffic patterns to improve store layouts or optimize staffing.
• Tamper Detection: Receive alerts if anyone attempts to tamper with a camera.
• Secure Storage: Store footage locally or in the cloud with automatic encryption to preserve privacy.

These cameras help businesses reduce theft, resolve disputes, and create safer work environments without complex installations.

5. Cisco Meraki MDM: Managing Mobile Devices with Ease

As employees work from offices, homes, and coffee shops during this time, mobile device management is extremely important. Cisco Meraki Mobile Device Management (MDM) solution, referred to as Systems Manager, allows businesses to manage laptops, tablets, and smartphone devices all from one dashboard.

What can Meraki MDM do?

• Remote Configuration: Set up email accounts, WiFi settings, and security protocols without touching the device.
• Access Control: Restrict network access based on device type, user, or location.
• App Management: Push, update, or remove apps across multiple devices in minutes.
• Lost Device Protection: Remotely lock or wipe a device if it goes missing.

For companies adopting BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies, Meraki MDM keeps sensitive data safe while giving employees the flexibility they need.

Why Businesses Choose Cisco Meraki

So, what is Cisco Meraki used for in the bigger picture? It’s about making complex networks simpler to run while keeping security and performance intact. Meraki’s cloud-first approach allows IT teams to manage networks, troubleshoot issues, and deploy new devices without being physically on-site.

The centralized dashboard combines everything — security, connectivity, and device management — all in one place. It eliminates the time-consuming manual process and saves on network-sustaining resources.

Partner with Link US Online for Your Cisco Meraki Needs

If you’re looking at Cisco Meraki for your business, partnering with the right company makes an impact. Since 2011, Link US Online has assisted businesses in obtaining high-quality networking equipment. North Carolina’s Research Triangle Park, enables insights that help you maximize your network investments through expertise and personalized support.