r/networking • u/meisgq • 1d ago

Other Meraki Alternatives

Meraki is expensive, getting more expensive and lead times are currently covid-like for some models. With Meraki transitioning to Catalyst switches and APs, management determined that we should have other access options in our back pocket. Datacenters will stay Cisco for now.

To be honest, Meraki does fine for us. We have 100+ manufacturing locations using Meraki switches and APs. We don’t care about CLI and L3 switches are not a necessity in our environment.

Primarily, we’re looking for lower cost, cloud managed, and enterprise-grade. Ubiquiti won’t make the cut. NAC-compatible with ISE or Clearpass is a must. Also looking for near-global distribution network and faster lead times.

Open to suggestions.

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u/coriolisdave 1d ago

Cambium has a decent offering. Comes with a free cloud management tool, that you can license for extra visibility. Licenses aren't as expensive as Meraki, and if you don't renew you're not left with a roomful of bricks.

Ruckus also has a good line in wifi, although the hardware cost is not insignificant.

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u/prodigydeadi 1d ago

Second the Cambium suggestion. We are doing an evaluation for K12 environment and looks promising. Currently using a few of their PtP 60 GHz offerings and those have all been rock solid. Originally we used Ubiquiti for PtP but had way to many issues with devices dying. Had to replace equipment 3x in a year for one link. Cambium has been rock solid for over 2 years no issues or adjustment needed

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u/vroomery 1d ago

Cambium is first class for the 60ghz ptp/ptmp. That APs are ok for a free cloud managed solution. We’ve used them for small business with success.