Cisco Meraki MR Series

Basic Information

The Cisco Meraki MR Series comprises cloud-managed wireless access points designed for enterprise-grade WLAN solutions. The series continually evolves to support the latest Wi-Fi standards and technologies.

• Model: A broad range of models exists, categorized by Wi-Fi generation and intended use case. This includes Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac Wave 2) models like MR33, MR42, MR52, MR53, MR74; Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) models such as MR28, MR36, MR44, MR46, MR56, MR76, MR86; Wi-Fi 6E models including MR57, CW9162, CW9164, CW9166; and Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) models like CW9172, CW9176, CW9178.
• Version: Firmware versions are dynamically updated via the Meraki cloud. Recent major firmware lines include MR 30.x, MR 31.1.x, and MR 27.x, with specific features and hardware compatibility.
• Release Date: The series has seen continuous releases and updates, with new models supporting Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and 7 technologies.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires a valid Cisco Meraki access point license and Power over Ethernet (PoE) via 802.3af, 802.3at, or 802.3bt standards, depending on the model.
• Supported Operating Systems: Client devices running common operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, Android, iOS) are supported for wireless connectivity. Management is performed via a web-based dashboard.
• Latest Stable Version: Firmware updates are automatically delivered and managed by the Meraki cloud, ensuring devices run stable, up-to-date versions.
• End of Support Date: End-of-Support (EOS) dates are model-specific. For example, the MR33 Access Point's support officially ends in June 2026.
• End of Life Date: End-of-Life (EOL) dates are model-specific. For example, some older models had an End-of-Sale date of July 21st, 2021, with an End-of-Support date of July 21st, 2026.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Automatic firmware updates are provided as long as the device has a valid license and is within its support lifecycle.
• License Type: Subscription-based licenses are required for each access point to operate. Available tiers include Enterprise, Advanced, and Upgrade, offered in both co-termination (co-term) and per-device licensing (PDL) models.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-managed, offering zero-touch provisioning and centralized management through the Cisco Meraki Dashboard.

Technical Specifications

The Cisco Meraki MR Series access points feature high-performance hardware designed for demanding enterprise environments. Specific component details can vary significantly across the diverse range of models.

• Processor: High-performance CPUs are integrated to handle Layer 3-7 firewall policies, application QoS, and network access control at the edge.
• RAM: Extended memory resources support advanced features and packet processing.
• Storage: Internal storage is used for firmware and configuration, with specifics not typically disclosed.
• Display: Not applicable for access points.
• Ports: Typically includes one or more Multigigabit Ethernet ports with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support (802.3af/at/bt). Some models may feature USB ports or console access.
• Operating System: Proprietary Meraki firmware, managed and updated via the cloud.
• Dimensions & Weight: Varies by model. For example:
  • MR44: 30.6 cm x 12.84 cm x 4.43 cm; 739 g.
  • MR56: 32.6 cm x 14.079 cm x 4.47 cm; 1 kg.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The MR Series emphasizes a distributed packet processing architecture, where each access point possesses sufficient CPU and memory to enforce policies and manage client traffic without relying on a central controller for data plane operations. This design ensures scalability and eliminates bottlenecks. The inclusion of Multigigabit Ethernet ports on many models addresses the increased backhaul demands of Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and 7 technologies. While specific processor and RAM figures are not publicly detailed, the performance capabilities indicate robust internal hardware. The varying dimensions and weights reflect the series' adaptability to different deployment scenarios, from compact indoor units to ruggedized outdoor models.

Support & Compatibility

The Cisco Meraki MR Series offers comprehensive support and broad compatibility, managed primarily through the cloud dashboard.

• Latest Version: Firmware updates are automatically pushed to devices from the Meraki cloud, ensuring they run the latest stable versions with new features and security patches.
• OS Support: Compatible with all standard client operating systems that support Wi-Fi connectivity (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS).
• End of Support Date: End-of-Support dates are specific to each model, with older models transitioning out of active support (e.g., MR33 EOS June 2026).
• Localization: The Meraki Dashboard, which manages the MR Series, supports multiple languages.
• Available Drivers: No specific drivers are required for the access points themselves; client devices utilize their native Wi-Fi drivers.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The MR Series benefits significantly from Cisco Meraki's cloud-managed architecture, which centralizes support and compatibility. Automatic firmware upgrades simplify maintenance, delivering bug fixes, security updates, and new features seamlessly. The cloud dashboard provides a single pane of glass for managing devices, monitoring performance, and troubleshooting, reducing the need for on-site IT staff. Compatibility with a wide array of client devices is inherent to Wi-Fi standards. However, the model-specific End-of-Support dates necessitate proactive planning for hardware refreshes to maintain full manufacturer support and access to the latest features and security updates.

Security Status

The Cisco Meraki MR Series integrates robust security features, leveraging both on-device capabilities and cloud intelligence.

• Security Features:
  • Integrated Layer 7 firewall with mobile device policy management.
  • Real-time Wireless Intrusion Detection/Prevention System (WIDS/WIPS) with alerting and automatic rogue AP containment via Air Marshal.
  • Flexible guest access with device isolation and guest access firewall.
  • VLAN tagging (802.1q) and tunneling with IPsec VPN.
  • Network Access Control (NAC) with client posture assessment.
  • Native Active Directory integration and 802.1X/RADIUS support for fine-grained access control.
  • Integration with Cisco Umbrella for DNS-layer security against malware, ransomware, and phishing.
  • Dedicated radio for security and RF optimization on indoor models.
  • PCI compliance reporting and HIPAA compliance.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Older vulnerabilities have been identified, such as those related to local status page functionality (e.g., CVE-2018-0284, CVE-2014-7994), which allowed authenticated attackers to modify device configurations or obtain sensitive information. Meraki addresses these through firmware updates.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable in the traditional sense; security advisories are issued for specific vulnerabilities.
• Certifications: FIPS-140-2 compliant, WFA-certified APs.
• Encryption Support:
  • WEP (deprecated, available for legacy devices).
  • WPA/WPA2-Personal (PSK) and WPA/WPA2-Enterprise (802.1X, AES encryption).
  • WPA3-Personal (SAE) and WPA3-Enterprise (192-bit cryptographic strength), including transition modes for WPA2 compatibility.
  • Opportunistic Wireless Encryption (OWE) for enhanced open network security.
• Authentication Methods: Open System, Pre-Shared Keys (PSK), MAC-based Access Control, WPA2/WPA3-Enterprise with 802.1X (RADIUS, PEAP/MSCHAPv2, Meraki Authentication), Identity PSK.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The Cisco Meraki MR Series maintains a strong security posture through a multi-layered approach. On-device capabilities like stateful firewalls, WIDS/WIPS, and advanced encryption standards (WPA3) are complemented by cloud-based security intelligence and integrations with services like Cisco Umbrella. Regular, automatic firmware updates are critical for patching known vulnerabilities, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing security. While historical vulnerabilities exist, Meraki's proactive patching strategy and comprehensive feature set, including certifications like FIPS-140-2 and compliance with HIPAA/PCI, contribute to a high overall security rating, making them suitable for sensitive enterprise environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

The Cisco Meraki MR Series is engineered for high performance and efficiency in diverse enterprise settings.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, standardized benchmark scores are not typically published for the entire series. Performance is generally described through aggregate throughput rates and feature support.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6E, and Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) technologies, including MU-MIMO, OFDMA, beamforming, and channel bonding.
  • High aggregate frame rates, varying by model:
    • MR28: Up to 1.5 Gbps.
    • MR44: Up to 3 Gbps (573 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, 2.402 Gbps on 5 GHz).
    • MR56: Up to 5.38 Gbps (574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, 4.804 Gbps on 5 GHz).
    • Wi-Fi 7 models (e.g., CW9176, CW9178): Up to 24 Gbps aggregate frame rate with concurrent 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz radios.
  • Designed for high-density deployments, supporting a large number of clients simultaneously.
  • Advanced RF optimization and self-healing mesh capabilities ensure reliable coverage and performance.
• Power Consumption: Varies by model and usage. Examples include:
  • MR36: 15W max (802.3af).
  • MR42: 20W (PoE+).
  • MR44: 15W max (802.3at/PoE+ recommended).
  • MR56: 15W max.
  Power is typically supplied via PoE (802.3af/at/bt).
• Carbon Footprint: Specific carbon footprint data for individual MR Series access points is not readily available. Cisco Meraki generally focuses on energy efficiency in its product designs and cloud infrastructure.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as a leading enterprise-grade solution, the MR Series competes with other cloud-managed and controller-based WLAN access points, often highlighted for its ease of deployment, centralized management, and advanced Wi-Fi capabilities (MU-MIMO, OFDMA, Wi-Fi 6/6E/7).

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The Cisco Meraki MR Series delivers excellent performance, particularly in high-density and bandwidth-intensive environments. The adoption of the latest Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and 7) with features like MU-MIMO and OFDMA ensures efficient spectrum utilization and high aggregate throughput. While specific benchmark numbers are not widely publicized, the stated aggregate frame rates and the focus on enterprise-grade hardware indicate robust real-world performance. The distributed data plane architecture allows for seamless scalability without controller bottlenecks. Power consumption is managed through PoE standards, aligning with typical enterprise network infrastructure. The series is well-regarded for its ability to provide reliable, high-speed wireless connectivity for demanding business applications.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the Cisco Meraki MR Series consistently highlight its ease of use and powerful cloud management capabilities.

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Use and Setup: Users frequently praise the intuitive nature of the Meraki Dashboard, making setup, configuration, and maintenance straightforward, even for those new to networking.
  • Centralized Cloud Management: The ability to manage an entire network, including multiple sites, from a single web-based dashboard is a major advantage, eliminating the need for on-site controllers and simplifying operations.
  • Automatic Updates: Seamless, automatic firmware upgrades ensure devices are always up-to-date with security patches and new features without manual intervention.
  • Reliability and Performance: The access points provide reliable coverage and high throughput, suitable for demanding business applications and high-density environments.
  • Scalability: The cloud architecture allows for easy scaling of networks by simply adding more APs.
  • Advanced Features: Features like integrated security (WIDS/WIPS), guest access, and application visibility are highly valued.
• Weaknesses:
  • Licensing Model: The mandatory subscription licensing model is sometimes viewed as a recurring cost burden, especially for smaller organizations or when compared to one-time purchase models of other vendors.
  • Dependence on Cloud: While a strength, the reliance on cloud connectivity for management can be a concern for some, though Meraki designs for network availability independent of cloud connectivity.
  • Cost: The initial investment and ongoing licensing costs can be higher than some competitors.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • High-density environments such as offices, schools, hospitals, hotels, and conference centers.
  • Distributed multi-site networks requiring centralized management and zero-touch provisioning.
  • Organizations prioritizing ease of deployment, simplified management, and robust security.
  • Environments requiring advanced Wi-Fi technologies like Wi-Fi 6, 6E, or 7 for high-bandwidth applications and IoT integration.

Summary

The Cisco Meraki MR Series represents a comprehensive line of cloud-managed wireless access points, offering an enterprise-grade solution for diverse networking needs. Its primary strength lies in its intuitive, centralized cloud management via the Meraki Dashboard, which simplifies deployment, configuration, and ongoing maintenance through features like zero-touch provisioning and automatic firmware updates. The series supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and 7, incorporating advanced technologies like MU-MIMO, OFDMA, and beamforming to deliver high throughput and reliable performance in high-density environments. Security is robust, with integrated Layer 7 firewalls, WIDS/WIPS, WPA3 encryption, and seamless integration with Cisco's security ecosystem. The distributed packet processing architecture ensures scalability and minimizes bottlenecks.

While the mandatory subscription licensing model and dependence on cloud connectivity are considerations for some organizations, the overall ease of use, powerful feature set, and strong security posture make the MR Series a highly recommended choice for businesses seeking a modern, scalable, and easily manageable wireless infrastructure. Its continuous evolution ensures future-readiness for emerging network demands.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.