The essential solutions for a secured networking in an enterprise include:
Firewalls: Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) is an essential component, especially for businesses with remote workers and high security demands. NGFWs provide site-to-site and remote access VPNs allowing secure connections for remote workers and branch offices.
Wireless Connectivity (Access Points): A strong wireless setup should incorporate the latest standards such as Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E. It is preferred that the APs strong encryption protocols like WPA3 and reliable authentication methods.
Network Switches: In an enterprise with 200 or more users, it’s important for switches to include features such as VLAN segmentation, quality of service (QoS) and Power over Ethernet (PoE) to supply power to devices like IP cameras and access points.
SD-WAN Solutions: SD-WAN allows for centralized control and streamlined management of the entire network, making it especially beneficial for companies with multiple locations.
Cisco Meraki Security Appliance
The Meraki MX Series includes a suite of cloud-managed security appliances designed to offer advanced network security, smooth connectivity and centralized management. These devices combine high-level security features with networking capabilities, providing businesses with a unified approach to secure networking and optimized performance. With SD-WAN support built in, the MX Series simplifies the management of multiple locations and guarantees reliable connectivity across branch offices.
Common Features of Meraki MX Security Appliances
Cloud Management: All Meraki MX appliances are managed through the Meraki Dashboard, providing real-time visibility, monitoring and control from anywhere.
Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW): Protects against modern threats with advanced features like Layer 7 application control, intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), and malware filtering.
SD-WAN Integration: Enables secure, intelligent and cost-effective connectivity across branch locations by optimizing traffic routing and reducing reliance on MPLS.
Auto VPN: Simplifies the setup of secure site-to-site and remote access VPNs.
Advanced Threat Protection: Includes content filtering, malware scanning, and integration with Cisco Umbrella for enhanced security.
Redundancy and Failover: Offers options like dual WAN ports, cellular failover and high availability for uninterrupted network connectivity.
Cisco Meraki Switches
Meraki switches are designed to be cloud-managed, ensuring dependable and scalable network performance. They come with centralized management via the Meraki Dashboard, which offers an easy-to-use interface for configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting the network. There are various models of Meraki switches available to meet diverse requirements, ranging from Layer 2 (L2) switches to Layer 3 (L3) switches that include advanced routing features.
Common Features in Meraki Switches
Cloud Management: All Meraki switches are managed through the Meraki Dashboard, allowing for easy configuration, monitoring and troubleshooting from anywhere with an internet connection.
PoE Support: Many Meraki switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling the power supply to devices like IP cameras, phones and access points through the same Ethernet cable.
High Availability: Meraki switches provide redundant power supplies, ensuring network uptime and preventing single point of failure.
Advanced Security: Meraki switches include built-in security features such as DHCP snooping, port security and access control lists (ACLs) to protect against unauthorized access.
Zero-Touch Provisioning: Meraki switches automatically download configuration settings when plugged into the network, simplifying deployment and setup
Cisco Meraki Access Points
Meraki access points play a crucial role in delivering dependable and high-performance wireless connectivity in today’s office settings particularly for a company with around 200 users. These access points utilize cloud-managed networking to provide smooth operation, centralized management and enhanced security features. They are specifically built to accommodate high-density environments making them perfect for offices with numerous devices and users who require fast and stable internet access.
Common Features in All Meraki Access Points
Cloud Management: All Meraki access points are managed through the Meraki Dashboard, providing a centralized, easy-to-use platform for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Wi-Fi 6 & 6E Technology: These access points support the latest wireless standards, enabling higher speeds, greater capacity and lower latency.
Power over Ethernet (PoE): Most Meraki APs support PoE or PoE+, simplifying deployment by eliminating the need for separate power cables.
Advanced Security: Features like WPA3 encryption, integrated firewalls and role-based access control ensure secure connectivity for all users and devices.
Scalability: Meraki APs are designed to scale effortlessly as the organization grows, supporting additional devices and higher user densities.
Seamless Roaming: Users can move throughout the office without experiencing connectivity interruptions, thanks to Meraki’s advanced roaming capabilities.
Automatic Firmware Updates: Access points receive regular updates to stay secure and compatible with the latest technologies.
High Availability: Meraki APs include redundancy features to ensure uninterrupted operation, even in the event of hardware or software issues.
Why should you consider Cisco Meraki Solutions?
Cisco Meraki solutions provides a comprehensive solution for secure networking, making it a top choice for contemporary businesses. Its cloud-managed platform streamlines network management, offering centralized visibility and control over all devices. Meraki’s solutions are built for easy scalability, enabling businesses to quickly adapt to growth without added complexity.
With advanced security features integrated into firewalls, access points and switches, Meraki guarantees strong protection against cyber threats while ensuring high performance. Whether it’s secure wireless connectivity, branch office integration with SD-WAN or physical security through cloud-managed cameras, Meraki offers dependable, scalable and easy-to-implement solutions that fulfill the needs of a secure, connected workplace.
Building a secured networking infrastructure for a 200+ user organization requires a comprehensive approach that balances performance, scalability and security. With solutions like Cisco Meraki’s family of products ranging from firewalls and switches to access points and cameras, businesses can ensure seamless connectivity and robust security while benefiting from simplified cloud management. These products are designed to work together, creating a unified and efficient network ecosystem that meets the demands of modern workplaces.
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