Cisco Meraki MS250

Basic Information

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series comprises cloud-managed access switches designed for reliable network infrastructure in branch offices and small campuses. The series includes models such as MS250-24, MS250-24P, MS250-48, MS250-48LP, and MS250-48FP.

• Model: Cisco Meraki MS250 Series (MS250-24, MS250-24P, MS250-48, MS250-48LP, MS250-48FP)
• Version: Series-based, with automatic firmware upgrades managed via the Meraki cloud.
• Release Date: Approximately 2016-2017.
• Minimum Requirements: Active Meraki Dashboard access and an internet connection for initial provisioning and ongoing management.
• Supported Operating Systems: Managed via a web browser, compatible with any operating system supporting a modern browser.
• Latest Stable Version: Firmware updates are automatically deployed and scheduled through the Meraki cloud.
• End of Support Date: August 8, 2030.
• End of Life Date: The End-of-Sale Date is August 8, 2025, with final orders accepted until this date, subject to stock availability. The product has been discontinued by the manufacturer.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Firmware updates are included as part of the active subscription license.
• License Type: Subscription-based Enterprise License, required on a "per device, per year" basis for full functionality, Dashboard connectivity, support, and warranty.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-managed, featuring zero-touch provisioning and management through the intuitive web-based Meraki Dashboard.

Technical Specifications

The MS250 Series switches offer robust hardware configurations tailored for access layer deployments.

• Processor: Information not publicly specified.
• RAM: Information not publicly specified.
• Storage: Information not publicly specified.
• Display: LED indicators for device status.
• Ports:
  • 24 or 48 x 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet RJ45 ports with auto-MDIX crossover.
  • 4 x SFP+ 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplink interfaces on all models.
  • 2 x dedicated stacking ports providing 80 Gbps of stacking bandwidth.
  • PoE/PoE+ models available:
    • MS250-24P: Up to 370W PoE+ output.
    • MS250-48LP: Up to 370W PoE+ output.
    • MS250-48FP: Up to 740W PoE+ output.
• Operating System: Meraki OS, managed via the cloud.
• Dimensions (H x W x D):
  • MS250-24/24P: 1.72 x 19 x 14.89 inches (4.38 x 48.46 x 37.8 cm).
  • MS250-48FP: 1.72 x 19.08 x 20.42 inches (4.38 x 48.46 x 51.87 cm).
• Weight:
  • MS250-24: 9.9 lb (4.5 kg).
  • MS250-24P: 10.59 lb (4.8 kg).
  • MS250-48FP: 12.83 lb (5.82 kg).
• Power Supply: Redundant, field-replaceable, hot-swappable power supplies. Options include 250W, 640W, and 1025W AC PSUs.
• Mounting: 1U rack-mountable with included hardware; optional mid-mount bracket for 2-post racks.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The MS250 Series provides essential features for modern access layer networking. The availability of 24 and 48 port Gigabit Ethernet models, coupled with 10G SFP+ uplinks, ensures sufficient connectivity and bandwidth for most branch and small campus environments. The inclusion of PoE/PoE+ with substantial power budgets (up to 740W) supports a wide range of powered devices. Redundant and hot-swappable power supplies enhance network reliability and uptime. The dedicated stacking ports with 80 Gbps bandwidth facilitate scalable and resilient network designs. The absence of publicly listed processor, RAM, and storage specifications is typical for network switches, as performance is primarily defined by switching capacity and forwarding rates.

Support & Compatibility

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series benefits from Meraki's cloud-managed ecosystem, simplifying support and compatibility aspects.

• Latest Version: Automatic firmware upgrades are delivered via the Meraki cloud, ensuring devices run the latest stable software.
• OS Support: Management occurs through a web-based dashboard, making it compatible with any operating system that can run a modern web browser.
• End of Support Date: August 8, 2030.
• Localization: The Meraki Dashboard is web-based and generally supports multiple languages. Technical assistance centers are located in San Francisco, London, and Sydney.
• Available Drivers: Not applicable, as the device is cloud-managed and does not require local drivers.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable (not a printer).

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The cloud-managed nature of the MS250 Series significantly streamlines support. Automatic firmware updates reduce administrative overhead and ensure the network benefits from the latest features and security patches. The web-based management interface offers broad compatibility across various client operating systems. However, the upcoming End of Support date of August 8, 2030, is a critical consideration for long-term deployment strategies, as it signifies the cessation of affirmative support from Cisco Meraki. Organizations planning deployments beyond this date should consider replacement models or alternative support arrangements. The reliance on an active subscription license for support and functionality is also a key aspect of the Meraki ecosystem.

Security Status

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series integrates a robust set of security features, leveraging its cloud management platform for centralized control and enforcement.

• Security Features:
  • Integrated two-factor authentication for Dashboard management.
  • Role-based access control (RBAC) with granular device and configuration control.
  • Corporate-wide password policy enforcement.
  • IEEE 802.1X RADIUS, hybrid authentication, and RADIUS server testing for port-based network access control.
  • MAC-based RADIUS authentication (MAB).
  • Port security features, including Sticky MAC and MAC whitelisting.
  • DHCP snooping, detection, and blocking to prevent rogue DHCP servers.
  • Dynamic ARP Inspection to mitigate man-in-the-middle attacks.
  • STP Enhancements such as BPDU guard, Root guard, and Loop guard for network stability and security.
  • IPv4/IPv6 Access Control List (ACL) support for traffic filtering.
  • Network segmentation capabilities.
  • Secure (PCI and HIPAA-compliant) cloud infrastructure for management.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities are highlighted in public documentation.
• Blacklist Status: No information found regarding blacklist status.
• Certifications: CSA-US (US, Canada) and FCC (USA) certified.
• Encryption Support: While specific data plane encryption details are not provided, cloud management communications are secured.
• Authentication Methods: Supports two-factor authentication for management, 802.1X RADIUS, MAC-based RADIUS, and hybrid authentication for network access.
• General Recommendations: Leverage the integrated security features, particularly two-factor authentication and RBAC, to secure management access. Regular, automatic firmware updates provided by Meraki are crucial for maintaining a strong security posture.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series offers a strong security foundation, primarily due to its centralized cloud management. This approach ensures consistent policy enforcement, automatic security updates, and simplified configuration of features like 802.1X and ACLs across the network. The comprehensive suite of access control and threat mitigation features at the port and network level provides robust protection against common network threats. The integrated two-factor authentication and RBAC for the Dashboard enhance management security. The secure cloud infrastructure itself contributes to the overall security rating. While specific vulnerability reports are not readily available, the continuous update model inherent to cloud management helps address potential issues proactively.

Performance & Benchmarks

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series switches deliver performance suitable for demanding access layer requirements in branch and small campus environments.

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Switching Capacity: 128 Gbps for 24-port models and 176 Gbps for 48-port models.
  • Forwarding Rate: 95.24 mpps for 24-port models and 127.98 mpps for 48-port models.
  • Stacking Bandwidth: 80 Gbps via dual dedicated stacking interfaces.
  • Switching Fabric: Non-blocking architecture ensures wire-speed performance.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: The switches maintain wire-speed switching even when advanced software features like Layer 7 application fingerprinting are enabled. They are designed for reliable, long-lived operation in various network environments, including wiring closets.
• Power Consumption:
  • MS250-24: Idle 14W / Max 27W.
  • MS250-24P: Idle 15W / Max 434W.
  • MS250-48FP: Idle 25W / Max 874W.
  • Features low power consumption and quiet acoustic design on select models.
  • Offers power and cooling savings of 30-60% compared to similar managed Gigabit switches.
• Carbon Footprint: While not explicitly quantified, the low power consumption and energy efficiency contribute to a reduced operational carbon footprint.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The MS250 Series is positioned as a capable access switch with 10G SFP+ uplinks and Layer 3 routing, suitable for medium-sized deployments. It was considered a high-end option below the MS350 series. Newer Cisco Catalyst 9300L series switches are designated as replacements.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series demonstrates strong performance characteristics for its class. The high switching capacity and non-blocking fabric ensure efficient data forwarding across all ports, accommodating demanding network traffic. The 80 Gbps stacking bandwidth provides excellent scalability and redundancy for aggregated switch deployments. Real-world performance is enhanced by the ability to maintain wire-speed even with advanced Layer 7 visibility features active. Furthermore, the series is notable for its energy efficiency, leading to lower power consumption and cooling requirements, which translates into operational cost savings and a smaller environmental impact. While newer models have superseded it, the MS250 remains a solid performer for its intended use cases.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback on the Cisco Meraki MS250 Series highlights its strengths in ease of management and its cloud-centric approach, alongside some considerations regarding its operational model.

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Management: The Meraki Dashboard is consistently praised for its intuitive graphical user interface (GUI), enabling zero-touch provisioning and remote configuration, making deployment and ongoing management straightforward.
  • Reliability: Users generally find the switches to provide reliable access switching.
  • Scalability: Stacking capabilities, both physical and virtual, along with 10G SFP+ uplinks, are well-regarded for providing flexibility and performance.
  • Redundancy: The inclusion of redundant, field-replaceable power supplies is a significant advantage for mission-critical networks.
  • Advanced Features: Layer 3 capabilities (static routing, OSPF, DHCP services) and deep Layer 7 visibility for application and client fingerprinting are highly valued for network control and insights.
  • Troubleshooting Tools: Powerful live tools like packet capture and cable testing simplify remote diagnostics.
  • Automatic Updates: Automatic firmware and security updates are seen as a major benefit, reducing manual effort and ensuring up-to-date security.
  • Suitability for Lean IT: The simplified management makes it ideal for organizations with limited IT staff.
• Weaknesses:
  • Cloud Dependence and Licensing: The requirement for an active subscription license to maintain functionality is a significant point of concern for some users, as an expired license can render the network inoperable. The absence of a local Command Line Interface (CLI) means all configuration is cloud-dependent.
  • Fan Noise: Some models, particularly the MS250-48P, can be notably loud, especially during initial boot-up.
  • Troubleshooting Limitations: While the dashboard offers tools, some advanced troubleshooting scenarios may require Meraki support due to the lack of direct CLI access and limited SNMP data compared to traditional switches.
  • Vendor Control: Meraki's control over firmware update schedules is sometimes viewed as a limitation.
  • Historical Concerns: Some older feedback mentioned concerns about stacking failures and routing issues, though more recent experiences report stable operation.
• Recommended Use Cases: The MS250 Series is highly recommended for branch offices, small to medium-sized campuses, and environments that prioritize simplified, centralized cloud management. It is particularly well-suited for organizations seeking reliable access switching, PoE/PoE+ capabilities for various devices, and those with limited IT resources benefiting from zero-touch deployment.

Vulnerabilities

• CVE-2021-27853
  Published: 2022-09-27 - Updated: 2025-11-04 - CVSS: 4.7 - EPSS: 0.15%
  Layer 2 network filtering capabilities such as IPv6 RA guard or ARP inspection can be bypassed using combinations of VLAN 0 headers and LLC/SNAP headers.

View more

Summary

The Cisco Meraki MS250 Series switches represent a robust and user-friendly solution for access layer networking in branch and small campus environments. Its primary strength lies in the intuitive, cloud-managed Meraki Dashboard, which facilitates zero-touch provisioning, centralized configuration, and automatic firmware updates, significantly reducing operational overhead for IT teams. The series offers strong technical specifications, including high switching capacities (up to 176 Gbps), 10G SFP+ uplinks, and 80 Gbps stacking bandwidth, ensuring reliable and scalable performance. PoE/PoE+ models provide ample power for connected devices, and redundant power supplies enhance network resilience. Comprehensive security features, such as two-factor authentication, RBAC, 802.1X, and advanced ACLs, are centrally managed, contributing to a strong security posture.

However, key weaknesses include the absolute reliance on an active subscription license for operation and support, the absence of a traditional local CLI for configuration, and potential fan noise on some models. The upcoming End-of-Sale date of August 8, 2025, and End-of-Support date of August 8, 2030, are critical factors for future planning, indicating a need to consider replacement models for long-term deployments. While troubleshooting can be simplified by cloud tools, some advanced diagnostics may require vendor support.

Overall, the MS250 Series is an excellent choice for organizations prioritizing ease of management, rapid deployment, and a comprehensive feature set within a cloud-centric ecosystem. It is particularly well-suited for environments with lean IT staff who can leverage the benefits of centralized control and automation. Prospective users should carefully consider the licensing model and the End-of-Life dates when making purchasing decisions.

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.