If you need to connect more than a couple of devices to the internet with an ethernet cable, you’ll need a switch.
As a business, this includes at a minimum your router, firewall, and access points, but you’ll also need to account for any additional
wired internet connections.
A switch is responsible for receiving, processing, and forwarding data packets between destinations in the same network. It allows your network to share information faster and improve productivity.
Once you know you need this device, your next question is likely something along the lines of, “Well, what vendor makes a switch that’s right for me?”
As a customer of The KR Group, you’ll probably receive a recommendation for a Cisco Catalyst 9000 switch or Meraki MS switch. (Of course, if neither of these meet your needs, then we’ll work with you to find a device that does.)
For the purpose of this article, however, let’s assume you’re trying to decide between Cisco and Cisco Meraki. Of course, you’ll want to consider similarities and differences between these options, and in the end, pick the option that sounds right for your needs.
Here are some of the most significant comparison points between the two families of switches:
- Cisco and Meraki switches have similar port and power features.
- Both have layer 3 networking availability.
- Only Meraki switches virtually stack.
- License models are different for Meraki vs. Cisco.
- Upgrades are more customizable with Cisco switches.
After reading through the below information on similarities and differences, you should start to understand which option you’d prefer.
Similar: Port and Power Features
If you’re looking at specification sheets for Cisco and Meraki switches, you’ll notice there are many similarities.
For example, the number of ports and how they’re configured are the same with both options.
And Cisco and Meraki both have options for traditionally powered, power over ethernet (PoE), and partial PoE switches.
You can also physically stack devices from both vendors, as long as the original and subsequent switches are stacking enabled and compatible.
On specifications alone, Meraki and Cisco switches both get the jobs done and provide enough customization to meet the needs of all types of IT environments.
Similar: Layer 3 Networking
Layer 3 networking is another optional feature that Meraki and Cisco provide for their switches.
In the OSI model of networking, layer 3 is responsible for routing, so switches with this capability can process and direct internal and external traffic.
If you choose a switch with this option, you could eliminate a router from your networking stack, freeing up a port and simplifying your network.
Difference: Virtual Stacking
You can physically stack Cisco and Meraki switches — meaning you can configure multiple switches to operate as a single device.
To do this, you have to purchase switches with this feature and make sure you add compatible stacking switches.
Additionally, Meraki has a stacking capability where switches virtually stack. This feature allows network administrators to group switches together using tags and manage them all at once. For example, you could group switches by floor, building, or department, and maintain them as a single device, even if they’re not physically together.
Difference: License Renewal
One of the changes to the Cisco Catalyst 9000 family of switches compared to previous lines is you’re now required to buy Cisco DNA licenses with each switch.
You may have even heard the comparison that now Cisco is like Meraki when requiring license purchases with hardware.
Yes, you have to purchase licensing for a central management tool from both vendors, but the licensing models are quite different.
First, the Meraki dashboard is already set up, so once you receive your device and the license is activated, you’re ready to go.
On the other hand, DNA Center uses licenses and an appliance, so you’ll still have to purchase equipment and do some initial setup to enjoy the benefits of Cisco’s tool.
Renewals are also different. When your initial 3-year DNA Center license expires, you can choose whether or not to renew it, but Meraki switches stop working when your license expires.
Difference: Upgrade Roll Outs
In general, you’ll find Cisco a better fit if you’re looking for control and a more manual process of deploying and managing your switch. Meraki is a great fit for you if you’re wanting a straightforward networking experience.
One area where this is especially notable is with upgrades.
The only control you have over firmware upgrades with a Meraki switch is selecting the time window when you want them rolled out.
Upgrades are inevitable, and you don’t get to choose which devices go first. This can become a problem if an upgrade doesn’t work with part of your environment, and the only resolution you have is to open a case with Meraki support and find a workaround while using the new firmware.
However, with a Cisco Catalyst 9000 switch, you get to choose when you want to upgrade and what devices you want to upgrade. And, this is the case in networks with or without DNA Center.
Cisco vs. Meraki Switches: Your Best Fit
Whether you opt for a Cisco or Meraki switch, you’ll have specification options to meet your needs and layer 3 routing incorporated into the device.
So, it ultimately boils down to what kind of administration experience you want from a switch.
If you’re looking for a device that is easy to manage, has intuitive licensing and dashboard, and automatic upgrades, Meraki MS switches provide that.
Alternatively, Cisco allows you to have more control over the switch, licensing, and upgrades.
Typically, if you’re working in a small environment (or don’t want to spend a lot of time thinking about your switch), you’ll want to consider Meraki MS models. But, for medium and larger environments, the additional configuration options make Cisco a better fit.
Check out the Cisco overview of the various models to understand your options in the Cisco Catalyst 9000 family of switches.
Or, if you’re interested in seeing how a Meraki switch would work in your IT environment, sign up for a free, 14-day trial.
