Cisco Meraki MV Series

Basic Information

The Cisco Meraki MV Series comprises cloud-managed smart cameras designed for physical security and business intelligence. These cameras leverage a distributed architecture with onboard storage and processing, minimizing the need for traditional Network Video Recorders (NVRs) or extensive on-premise infrastructure.

• Model & Version: The MV Series includes multiple generations and models, such as the second-generation MV12, MV22, MV32, MV72 series, and the third-generation MV13, MV23, MV33, MV63, MV73, and MV93 series.
• Release Date: The second generation, including the MV12 family, was introduced around February 2018. Third-generation cameras like the MV13, MV23, MV33, MV63, MV73, and MV93 are newer models.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires a Meraki Dashboard account and network connectivity. Power is typically supplied via Power over Ethernet (PoE) or PoE+.
• Supported Operating Systems: Managed via the cloud-based Meraki Dashboard, accessible through any modern web browser.
• Latest Stable Version: Firmware updates are automatically downloaded and installed from the Meraki Dashboard. As of September 2025, MV 7.1.1 is a stable camera firmware version.
• End of Support Date: Specific End of Support (EoS) and End of Life (EoL) dates vary by model. For example, some second-generation models like MV2 and MV12N/W/WE have an End of Sale date of December 31, 2025, with replacement models available.
• End of Life Date: Varies by specific model.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly stated as an expiration date; firmware updates are continuous over the product's lifespan through the Meraki Dashboard.
• License Type: Requires a Meraki MV Enterprise License, available in 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10-year terms per camera. Optional licenses include MV Sense for advanced analytics and Cloud Archive for extended cloud storage.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-managed with cloud-augmented edge storage. Video data is stored locally on the camera's solid-state drive, while metadata and management are cloud-based.

Technical Specifications

The MV Series cameras feature robust hardware designed for continuous surveillance and advanced analytics. Specifications vary across models and generations, with newer models offering enhanced capabilities.

• Processor: Equipped with powerful processors, similar to those in modern smartphones, enabling advanced analytics and machine learning directly on the device. Second-generation cameras feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor.
• RAM: Not explicitly detailed in public specifications, but sufficient to support onboard processing and analytics.
• Storage: High-endurance solid-state storage is integrated into each camera. Options include:
  • 128 GB (e.g., MV12WE)
  • 256 GB (e.g., MV12, MV22, MV32, MV72, MV13, MV63, MV93)
  • 512 GB (e.g., MV13M, MV22X, MV23M, MV63M, MV72X, MV73M, MV93M)
  • 1 TB (e.g., MV23X, MV63X, MV73X, MV93X)
• Display: Not applicable as these are cameras, not display devices. Video output resolutions vary by model, up to 4K (3840x2160) for third-generation cameras like the MV23 and MV63, and up to 8MP (2880x2880) for fisheye models like the MV93.
• Ports: Typically includes a female RJ45 Ethernet connector for network and power (PoE/PoE+). Some models may feature an external microphone switch and a reset button.
• Operating System: Proprietary Meraki firmware, managed and updated via the cloud.
• Dimensions & Weight: Varies significantly by model (e.g., mini-dome, varifocal dome, fisheye, indoor/outdoor).
  • MV23: 148.54 mm x 95.80 mm (diameter x height), 840 grams.
  • MV73: 166.39 mm x 103 mm (diameter x height), 1480 grams.
  • MV93: 137.68 mm x 67.9 mm (diameter x height), 1050 grams.
  • MV63: 130.98 mm x 95 mm (diameter x height), 920 grams.
  • MV12 (example): 106mm x 74mm (diameter x height), 286g.

Technical Specifications Analysis

The MV Series is characterized by its edge-based processing and storage architecture, which offloads significant computational and storage requirements from central servers. The inclusion of powerful processors enables advanced analytics like object detection and machine learning directly on the camera. High-endurance solid-state storage ensures reliable local video retention, reducing reliance on continuous cloud streaming for primary storage. The variety in storage capacities (from 128GB to 1TB) allows for flexible deployment based on retention needs. Support for up to 4K resolution on newer models provides high-detail video capture. The compact and varied form factors, along with PoE/PoE+ power, simplify installation across diverse environments, including indoor, outdoor, and specialized transportation settings (e.g., MV63/MV93 with EN 50155 Railway Compliance).

Support & Compatibility

Cisco Meraki MV Series cameras are designed for seamless integration within the Meraki ecosystem, offering centralized management and continuous support.

• Latest Version: Firmware MV 7.1.1 is a stable camera firmware version as of September 2025. Beta firmware versions like MV 7.1.2 and MV 6.2 are also available.
• OS Support: Managed through the web-based Meraki Dashboard, compatible with standard web browsers on various operating systems.
• End of Support Date: Hardware warranty is typically five years with advanced replacement for third-generation cameras. Licensing terms (1, 3, 5, 7, 10 years) include support.
• Localization: Meraki Dashboard and documentation are available in multiple languages, supporting global deployments.
• Available Drivers: Not applicable; the cameras are managed via the cloud-based Meraki Dashboard, eliminating the need for local drivers.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable; these are security cameras, not printers.

Support & Compatibility Analysis

The MV Series offers a highly streamlined support and compatibility experience due to its cloud-managed nature. Automatic firmware updates ensure cameras always run the latest software with new features and security patches, reducing manual intervention. The Meraki Dashboard provides a "single pane of glass" for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting, accessible from anywhere. This centralized approach simplifies management for organizations of all sizes, especially those with limited IT staff. The licensing model bundles support, including phone support, ensuring ongoing assistance. Compatibility with the broader Meraki ecosystem (switches, access points, sensors) allows for integrated security and network solutions.

Security Status

Security is a core aspect of the Meraki MV Series, with multiple layers of protection built into the hardware and cloud management.

• Security Features:
  • Secure boot and signed firmware, backed by a hardware security chip.
  • Full disk encryption (AES-256) for all footage stored on the camera.
  • Automatic provisioning and renewal of publicly signed TLS/SSL certificates for encrypted communication.
  • Management encryption and two-factor authentication for Dashboard access.
  • Role-based user accounts for granular access control to video feeds.
  • Wireless security: WPA3-Personal (PSK/SAE), WPA, WPA2-PSK, WPA2-Enterprise with 802.1X EAP-TTLS TKIP and AES encryption.
  • Cloud-augmented edge storage architecture minimizes exposure of video data in the cloud.
  • Automatic software updates for continuous security patch management.
  • Cisco Trust Anchor modules for hardware integrity.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Meraki's cloud security platform allows for rapid reaction to and patching of discovered exploits. Specific known, unpatched vulnerabilities are not publicly highlighted as a persistent issue, given the continuous update model.
• Blacklist Status: No indication of a general blacklist status.
• Certifications: NDAA compliant across all third-generation cameras and second-generation cameras. Some models (MV63, MV93 series) have EN 50155 Railway Compliance certification for transportation environments.
• Encryption Support: Full disk AES-256 encryption for stored video and end-to-end encryption for video in transit between camera and browser.
• Authentication Methods: Two-factor authentication for Meraki Dashboard access.
• General Recommendations: Utilize strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for Meraki Dashboard accounts. Regularly review user access permissions. Adhere to Meraki's best practices for network segmentation and physical security of the cameras.

Security Status Analysis

The Cisco Meraki MV Series demonstrates a strong commitment to security, integrating robust features at both the hardware and software levels. The combination of secure boot, signed firmware, and hardware security chips protects against tampering. Full disk encryption and encrypted communication channels ensure data privacy and integrity, both at rest and in transit. The cloud-managed nature facilitates continuous, automatic security updates, which is critical for addressing emerging threats promptly. Granular access controls and two-factor authentication enhance administrative security. Compliance with standards like NDAA and EN 50155 further underscores their suitability for secure deployments in various sectors. The architecture, which stores video on the edge rather than continuously streaming to the cloud, also reduces potential bandwidth and cloud-storage related security concerns.

Performance & Benchmarks

The MV Series emphasizes efficient performance through its edge computing architecture and optimized video handling.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, publicly available benchmark scores (e.g., industry-standard video processing benchmarks) are not typically provided for these devices. Performance is generally described in terms of analytical capabilities and video quality.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Video Quality: Up to 4K resolution (3840x2160) at 15fps for third-generation cameras, with options for 4MP (2560x1440) at 24fps or 1080p (1920x1080) at 24fps. Second-generation cameras record up to 1080p at 20fps.
  • Smart Retention: Optimizes video storage by prioritizing high-fidelity recording of key events (motion, people, vehicles) while managing overall retention based on configurable settings.
  • Edge Analytics: Fast edge analytics, machine learning for object detection (people, vehicles), motion search, motion heatmaps, and historical person tracking are performed directly on the camera.
  • Bandwidth Efficiency: Cloud-augmented edge storage minimizes WAN bandwidth usage, with only metadata (less than 50kbps per camera) streamed to the cloud when footage is not being viewed remotely.
  • Recording Options: Always-on, scheduled, or motion-based recording.
• Power Consumption: Varies by model. For example, MV63 series has a maximum power load of 25.5W via 802.3at PoE. MV23 series also consumes 25.5W max. MV13/MV33 series consume 12.95W max via 802.3af PoE.
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly detailed in public specifications. However, the cloud-managed architecture and elimination of on-premise NVRs and servers can contribute to a reduced physical infrastructure footprint.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: The MV Series distinguishes itself by eliminating the need for NVRs/VMS, offering integrated analytics, and providing simplified cloud management, which often reduces complexity and operational costs compared to traditional surveillance systems.

Performance Analysis

The MV Series delivers strong performance through its intelligent edge architecture. The powerful onboard processors enable real-time video analytics, such as object detection and motion indexing, directly on the device, providing immediate insights without cloud latency. This approach also significantly reduces network bandwidth consumption by storing video locally and sending only metadata to the cloud. Smart Retention features optimize storage usage, ensuring critical events are captured in high quality while extending retention times. The ability to record up to 4K video on newer models ensures high-detail footage for various applications. While specific benchmark numbers are not prominent, the focus on integrated analytics and simplified deployment positions the MV Series as a high-performing solution for modern surveillance needs, particularly for organizations seeking to minimize on-premise hardware and management overhead.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback generally highlights the ease of deployment, centralized management, and integrated analytics as significant strengths of the Cisco Meraki MV Series.

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Deployment and Management: Users frequently praise the "zero-touch" configuration and the intuitive Meraki Dashboard for simplifying setup and ongoing management, even for large-scale deployments across multiple sites.
  • Integrated Analytics: The built-in motion search, heatmaps, object detection (people, vehicles), and person tracking capabilities are highly valued for providing actionable business intelligence beyond basic security.
  • Elimination of NVR/VMS: The edge storage architecture, which removes the need for separate NVRs or video management software, is a major advantage, reducing hardware costs and complexity.
  • Reliability and Automatic Updates: The robust hardware, solid-state storage, and automatic firmware updates contribute to a reliable and continuously improving system.
  • Scalability: The system scales easily from a single camera to thousands, managed from a single dashboard.
• Weaknesses:
  • Licensing Costs: The subscription-based licensing model, while providing comprehensive support and features, can be perceived as an ongoing cost consideration for some users.
  • Cloud Dependence for Management: While a strength for ease of use, reliance on the Meraki cloud for management can be a concern for environments with strict offline requirements or limited internet connectivity (though local recording continues).
  • Advanced Customization: While MV Sense offers API access for custom computer vision, some highly specialized or niche analytics might require more extensive integration efforts.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Physical Security: Ideal for general surveillance in various environments, including offices, retail stores, warehouses, and outdoor perimeters.
  • Business Intelligence: Used for understanding foot traffic, customer behavior, space utilization, and optimizing operations through analytics like people counting and heatmaps.
  • Distributed Environments: Highly suitable for organizations with multiple locations that require centralized management without on-site IT staff at each location.
  • Transportation: Specific models (MV63, MV93 series) are designed for demanding transportation environments due to their ruggedness and certifications.

Summary

The Cisco Meraki MV Series represents a modern approach to video surveillance, blending physical security with advanced analytics through a cloud-managed, edge-computing architecture. Its core strength lies in its simplicity of deployment and management, largely attributed to the intuitive Meraki Dashboard and the elimination of traditional NVRs and complex software. The cameras feature powerful onboard processors and high-endurance solid-state storage, enabling real-time analytics like object detection, motion heatmaps, and people counting directly at the edge, while minimizing network bandwidth usage. This architecture ensures continuous recording even during network outages and provides valuable business insights beyond mere security footage.

Security is paramount, with features such as secure boot, full disk AES-256 encryption, automatic TLS/SSL certificate management, and robust authentication methods. Automatic firmware updates keep the system continuously protected against vulnerabilities. The MV Series offers a wide range of models, from compact indoor mini-domes to rugged outdoor varifocal and fisheye cameras, with resolutions up to 4K, catering to diverse environmental and surveillance needs.

While the subscription-based licensing model is an ongoing cost, it bundles comprehensive support, continuous updates, and access to the cloud management platform, which many users find justifies the investment due to reduced operational complexity. The series excels in scenarios requiring scalable, intelligent, and easily manageable surveillance, particularly for distributed enterprises and businesses seeking operational insights from video data. Its primary weakness, if any, might be the ongoing licensing cost and the inherent reliance on cloud connectivity for management, though local recording remains unaffected. Overall, the Cisco Meraki MV Series stands out as a highly capable, secure, and user-friendly solution for modern enterprise asset management in the realm of physical security and video analytics.

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.