As more businesses move their operations to the cloud, network hardware such as switches continues to play a crucial role in maintaining seamless connectivity between devices. Switches ensure that printers, VoIP phones, workstations, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices remain connected to your local network, facilitating communication between devices and enabling access to the cloud. This makes choosing the right switch a critical decision for businesses of all sizes.
Two of the most popular options in the market are Cisco and Meraki switches, each offering unique features and benefits. This article will compare the two, focusing on key differences, including Meraki POE switches, virtual stacking, and Cisco Catalyst vs Nexus models.
Cisco is a well-known brand in the networking industry, offering a wide variety of switch models that cater to different business needs. Cisco switches are recognized for their robustness, extensive feature sets, and ability to handle heavy traffic loads in enterprise environments. Cisco’s switches, particularly the Catalyst and Nexus lines, provide advanced features that allow businesses to scale their networks efficiently while ensuring performance, security, and reliability.
For instance, Cisco Catalyst vs Nexus switches provide different advantages based on use cases. The Catalyst series is designed for campus environments and offers seamless connectivity, focusing on security and programmability. On the other hand, Cisco Nexus switches are more suited for data centers, providing superior performance, flexibility, and scalability.
Meraki, a subsidiary of Cisco, offers cloud-managed switches that simplify network management. One of the standout features of Meraki switches is their cloud-based dashboard, which allows administrators to monitor and manage the network from anywhere. This makes Meraki MS switching an attractive option for businesses seeking ease of use and scalability without needing on-premises management resources.
In addition to cloud-based management, Meraki POE switches (Power over Ethernet) can power devices like VoIP phones and IP cameras through the same cable that provides their network connection. This reduces the need for additional power cables, simplifying setup and reducing costs. Many businesses ask, "Does my Meraki switch have POE?" Fortunately, Meraki offers several models with POE capabilities to suit different business requirements.
1. Cloud-Based Management
2. Virtual Stacking
Both Cisco and Meraki switches offer stacking capabilities, but Meraki's virtual stacking is a unique feature that allows switches to be managed as if they were physically stacked, even if they are in different locations. This simplifies management for distributed businesses and organizations with multiple branch offices.
3. Use as Core Switch
While Meraki switches are easier to manage, they may not be ideal for every situation. Larger organizations often use Meraki as a core switch for centralized networks, but Cisco Catalyst or Nexus switches may be better suited for more complex networks that require advanced programmability, security features, and higher scalability.
4. Interoperability
One advantage of Cisco switches is their interoperability with other Cisco hardware. Meraki devices also have robust interoperability, but their cloud-based nature can make them less flexible than the more traditional Cisco products. For example, Meraki and Catalyst interoperability ensures seamless communication between the two platforms but may require careful planning to ensure compatibility.
The initial cost is often a deciding factor for many businesses when choosing between Cisco and Meraki switches. Cisco Meraki switch pricing is generally more competitive due to its cloud-managed architecture, which reduces the need for expensive hardware and on-premises management. Cisco switch models comparison often reveals higher initial costs due to the extensive feature sets and robustness of traditional Cisco switches. However, these costs are justified for businesses requiring complex network management and high scalability.
Choosing between Cisco and Meraki switches depends on your business’s size, budget, and network complexity. For organizations requiring robust, programmable switches capable of handling demanding environments, Cisco Catalyst or Nexus switches provide the needed robustness and scalability. Meanwhile, businesses prioritizing simplicity, centralized management, and cost savings may find Meraki switches the best solution, particularly with features like POE and virtual stacking.
Related reading:
Why We Still Need Switches, Access Points, & Routers
Why Switches are Still Needed Despite Moving to the Cloud
Router vs Access Point: Which is Right for Your Business?