Cisco Meraki MR Wireless vs Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points comparison

Cisco Meraki MR Wireless vs. Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points

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Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

Cisco Meraki MR Wireless

Ranking in Wireless LAN

17th

Average Rating

7.6

Reviews Sentiment

3.5

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Cisco Wireless 9100 Access ...

Ranking in Wireless LAN

21st

Average Rating

8.8

Reviews Sentiment

6.6

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

Featured Reviews

Sanjay Gaiswal

Technical Presales at Vcom Technologies

Cloud-based management transforms branch network operations efficiently

The most useful feature of Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is its cloud-based management. Configuring Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is easy because it's a cloud-based solution. Once you connect it, it gets registered on the cloud. You can configure it through there itself, and you don't need to be at the site while configuring. Layer 7 traffic shaping helps with bandwidth management, and now you have the five gigabit port on the AP itself, so the bandwidth increases. No other wireless OEM provides a bandwidth of five gigabits. I have worked with the Network Analytics feature in Cisco Meraki MR Wireless, and it's used on the cloud. The Meraki controller, which is a cloud-based controller, allows us to manage multiple Cisco Meraki MR Wireless APs and monitor their performance, user connectivity, signal, and the AP performance itself. Regarding security features such as Air Marshal and WIPS, the Meraki 1700 series has the WIPS feature. We have used the WIPS feature to prevent rogue APs and to enable the security features in the wireless itself. You don't need to buy any other separate security devices, making it a very effective and useful feature.

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Bharath _Kumar

Solution Architect at Velocis Systems

Wireless has delivered advanced analytics and remote troubleshooting for diverse use cases

Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points is valuable because of Cisco's Wi-Fi integration with Cisco Spaces, previously called DNA Spaces. When you bundle Cisco AP with Cisco Spaces, the complete wireless story comes into the picture. The first major advantage is the hardware, the chipset, the processor, and the IOS. There is unified licensing and unified iOS, and once you have DNA advantage, you can get a separate AVIX and the Wi-Fi 6 or 6E dashboard in DNAC. These advantages provide basic throughput support, OFDMA, multi-MIMO architecture, and the latest 4K QAM in Wi-Fi 7, previously 1024 QAM, and MLO in Wi-Fi 7. These functionalities exist for every OEM, but the Cisco advantage is the integration with Wi-Fi Spaces. Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points includes one AP that can operate in dual mode. You can onboard it in Meraki or Catalyst, meaning on-premises or cloud controller. Single hardware can be dual OS, either Meraki OS or Catalyst OS. For IoT and industrial wireless, Cisco has a different technology called CURV. The APs are different from the Catalyst 9000 series APs. There is a different set of series with different models working on fluid mesh architecture of Cisco CURV. Remote troubleshooting is a basic functionality of any SDN controller these days. Engineers do not need to manually log in to the end device, which could be either a switch or an AP. From DNA Center itself, you can get visibility from the assurance. You can get client 360, network 360, and application 360 where the health scores of each individual client are clearly visible in DNAC Center. The assurance data provides visibility and highlights the issues that a particular user or particular network node is facing. You can access the device without any challenge. Similar to how SD-WAN came into the picture seven to eight years ago where you could remotely log in to the WAN edge devices and troubleshoot it, the same principle is being applied in DNAC Center for the campus, whether it is switching or WAN. If the RTT latency has been met from the branch to the place where DNAC Center is deployed, you can easily access those devices without needing an engineer to visit that particular location for troubleshooting.

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Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"We benefit from using Cisco Meraki cloud as it makes manageability easier—two people can manage 200 locations efficiently."

"Some of the best features with the wireless solution are that you have a cloud console, so you don't have to create or manage your own instance of a controller."

"As a user of the product, the biggest advantage for me is that it works seamlessly; users can switch between access points, and it works great."

"Cloud management is something I appreciate; it's an easy product to manage in comparison to many others."

"Some of the best features with the wireless solution are that you have a cloud console, so you don't have to create or manage your own instance of a controller."

"The Meraki controller, which is a cloud-based controller, allows us to manage multiple Cisco Meraki MR Wireless APs and monitor their performance, user connectivity, signal, and the AP performance itself."

"The most useful feature of Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is its cloud-based management."

"Some of the best features with the wireless solution are that you have a cloud console, so you don't have to create or manage your own instance of a controller."

More Cisco Meraki MR Wireless pros

"Wi-Fi 6 technology has improved wireless connectivity to such an extent that LAN cable connectivity is no longer necessary, allowing users to work remotely with Wi-Fi connectivity while achieving both speed and scalability."

"Cisco is technically superior to competitors."

"There is not much in terms of potential improvement for Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points; the product is good on wireless."

"The biggest benefit from Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points for me and my clients is that it has many options for tuning the configuration and the radio profile for wireless."

"My favorite thing about Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points is that they just work, and they work reliably."

"The features in Catalyst 9100 Access Points that I have found most valuable include that it's a complete solution; we go with Cisco because you have access points, you have a controller, you have Cisco ISE, and you have Cisco DNA Center."

"Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points is valuable because of Cisco's Wi-Fi integration with Cisco Spaces, previously called DNA Spaces."

"Wi-Fi 7 and WPA3 connectivity has made a difference for my organization as it allows for better and faster connectivity."

More Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points pros

Cons

"The challenge with Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is that for any Meraki device, you require internet connectivity to get it registered on the cloud."

"To do that effectively, I really need accurate floor plans, which I don't yet have. Without having the full picture, I'm operating somewhat blind and have to be careful."

"The challenge with Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is that for any Meraki device, you require internet connectivity to get it registered on the cloud."

"To do that effectively, I really need accurate floor plans, which I don't yet have. Without having the full picture, I'm operating somewhat blind and have to be careful."

"Overall, Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is a bit pricey; that's the main and probably only disadvantage."

"My main concern is that Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is overpriced, has limited functionality, and the hardware is not prepared for any further improvements in terms of features."

"To do that effectively, I really need accurate floor plans, which I don't yet have. Without having the full picture, I'm operating somewhat blind and have to be careful."

"Regarding service support, Cisco Meraki does not provide direct support. When raising incidents or support tickets, the support is not always effective."

More Cisco Meraki MR Wireless cons

"The deployment process itself is complex because we need to ensure that software requirements are running."

"Theoretically, you can connect up to 100 clients simultaneously, but practically, this is not feasible. There will be bandwidth deterioration, and 100 clients using the same bandwidth will impact the quality of service."

"Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points are expensive. They are definitely expensive."

"Technical support from Cisco has been a bit degraded lately because the first support we get is challenging."

"I do not see support for advanced wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and IoT applications."

"Apart from that, the security measures of Cisco have not provided us with great help in reducing network vulnerabilities."

"Frankly, ease of use is one of the things that needs improvement, as the management interfaces have always been complex and not very intuitive."

"Cisco is always expensive. In terms of pricing, it is very tough because I have lost many RFPs because of the pricing where Ruckus is much less expensive."

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Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

No data available

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	3
Midsize Enterprise	3
Large Enterprise	7

Questions from the Community

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Cisco Meraki MR Wireless?

The cost of Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is high; the price of one AP to the end customer is approximately 50,000 INR.

What needs improvement with Cisco Meraki MR Wireless?

I have utilized Meraki's RF Optimization to some extent. To do that effectively, I really need accurate floor plans, which I don't yet have. Without having the full picture, I'm operating somewhat ...

What is your primary use case for Cisco Meraki MR Wireless?

My use case for Cisco Meraki MR Wireless is in automotive retail. I work with a dealership ownership group that currently operates 95 locations.

What needs improvement with Catalyst 9100 Access Points?

I do not see support for advanced wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and IoT applications. There is nothing to add on this technology.

What is your primary use case for Catalyst 9100 Access Points?

The major use case is to couple that with the WLC wireless controller and push the different SSIDs on these access points to permit different devices and endpoints to connect to it.

What advice do you have for others considering Catalyst 9100 Access Points?

In these last ten years, the projects I made were for customers, but right now, I am a client and a customer. Cisco Wireless support for IoT is good and effective. We do not use AI analytics in Cis...

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Product Reports

Cisco Meraki MR Wireless

Download Cisco Meraki MR Wireless product report

Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points

Download Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points product report

Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points report

Also Known As

No data available

Catalyst 9100 Access Points

Overview

Cisco Meraki MR Wireless offers a robust wireless connectivity solution designed for scalability and ease of deployment, making it suitable for modern enterprises seeking reliable network performance.

With its cloud-managed structure, Cisco Meraki MR Wireless provides comprehensive visibility and control over wireless environments, catering to diverse locations and user counts. Its seamless integration simplifies network management, crucial for data-driven decisions in enterprises. The system's configuration and maintenance are streamlined via the intuitive dashboard, ensuring users can optimize performance with minimal effort.

What are the important features of Cisco Meraki MR Wireless?

Cloud Management: Access and control your wireless network from anywhere, providing flexibility and ease of administration.
Seamless Scaling: Effortlessly expand the network as the organization grows without disruption.
Advanced Security: Integrated security features protect against threats and ensure data integrity.
Powerful Analytics: Gain insights into network usage to make informed decisions and optimize performance.

What benefits and ROI should users consider when evaluating Cisco Meraki MR Wireless?

Cost Efficiency: Reduced operational costs due to simplified management and deployment tools.
Time Savings: Quick setup and easy maintenance lead to significant time savings for IT teams.
Improved Performance: Enhanced network reliability and speed increase productivity and satisfaction.
Scalability: Adaptable solution that supports business growth without needing significant manual intervention.

Healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and retail environments favor Cisco Meraki MR Wireless for its robust security and ease of management in environments demanding reliable connectivity. Its ability to handle high-density environments with minimal latency makes it an asset in education. Retail chains utilize comprehensive analytics to optimize in-store experiences and operations.

Cisco

Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points deliver cutting-edge performance and security for enterprises seeking reliable wireless connectivity. They cater to both large and small businesses aiming to optimize network infrastructure.

These access points offer robust features tailored for today’s digital workplace. With advanced analytics, enhanced security protocols, and support for high-density environments, Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points provide seamless connectivity across different sectors. Their ability to operate in complex conditions makes them ideal for industries with heavy reliance on data and constant connectivity.

What are the standout features of Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points?

High-Density Support: Efficiently manages large numbers of devices simultaneously.
Advanced Security: Offers WPA3 and segmentation to enhance network protection.
Analytics: Provides insights into network activity to aid in decision-making.
Flexible Deployment: Adapts to indoor and outdoor environments.

What benefits and ROI can you expect from Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points?

Improved Network Efficiency: Better device handling reduces downtime and increases productivity.
Security Assurance: Enhanced measures protect sensitive data.
Cost Savings: Long-term investment with scalable infrastructure reduces upgrade expenses.
Enhanced User Experience: Reliable access ensures consistent connectivity and satisfaction.

Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points are implemented in industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. They support high-capacity transactions and critical operations, ensuring uninterrupted service and data flow. These access points meet industry-specific demands for security, scalability, and reliable connectivity.

Cisco

Cisco Meraki MR Wireless vs. Cisco Wireless 9100 Access Points