The Cisco Meraki MX84 is a next-generation security appliance designed to cater to small and medium-sized businesses. This cloud-managed device promises a variety of features aimed at improving security, connectivity, and ease of management. But is it really worth the investment? In this review, we’ll explore its key features, pricing, performance, and whether it's the right fit for your business. If you're considering purchasing the device, don't forget to also evaluate the Meraki MX84 License, which is required to unlock its full potential.

What Is the Cisco Meraki MX84?

The Cisco Meraki MX84 is part of Cisco's cloud-managed security appliances, designed to provide enterprise-grade security while remaining simple to deploy and manage. It is particularly suitable for organizations that need to secure multiple branch locations or remote offices without the need for extensive on-site IT resources. The MX84 combines robust firewall capabilities with VPN, content filtering, and malware protection, all managed through the intuitive Meraki Dashboard.

Key Specifications of the MX84:

• Throughput: 500 Mbps
• Maximum VPN throughput: 250 Mbps
• Concurrent VPN tunnels: 100
• Ports: 10x GbE, 2x SFP
• Power redundancy: Dual power supplies for increased reliability

Features and Capabilities

1. Security Features

The Cisco Meraki MX84 shines when it comes to security. Its Unified Threat Management (UTM) capabilities include intrusion detection, malware protection, content filtering, and anti-phishing tools. These features are continually updated through the cloud, ensuring that businesses remain protected against the latest threats.

One standout feature is the Advanced Malware Protection (AMP), which scans traffic in real-time for malicious content. This offers an additional layer of protection, ensuring that malware is blocked before it reaches your network. Plus, with the Meraki MX84 License, users can access additional advanced security features that would otherwise remain locked.

2. Cloud Management

The Meraki MX84’s cloud-based management system is a game-changer for IT teams. Through the Meraki Dashboard, administrators can monitor, configure, and manage their entire network from any location with internet access. This not only saves time but also simplifies complex tasks like setting up VPNs or modifying security policies. The dashboard is easy to navigate, making it suitable even for IT teams with limited experience.

Additionally, cloud management enables real-time updates and troubleshooting. If something goes wrong, network admins can access logs, diagnose issues, and even reboot the device—all remotely.

3. Network Optimization

The Meraki MX84 doesn’t just secure your network; it also enhances its performance. With integrated Quality of Service (QoS) features, you can prioritize bandwidth for critical applications, such as VoIP, video conferencing, or cloud-based services. This ensures that your most important business functions get the network resources they need to perform optimally.

The appliance also supports load balancing and failover between two internet connections, so even if one connection fails, your network can continue operating without significant downtime.

4. VPN and Remote Access

For businesses with remote workers or multiple locations, the VPN capabilities of the MX84 are critical. It supports both client-based and site-to-site VPNs, enabling secure communication between branch offices or for employees working from home. The Auto VPN feature simplifies setup, requiring just a few clicks to connect multiple sites securely.

The VPN throughput of 250 Mbps is sufficient for small to medium-sized businesses, though larger enterprises may find it limiting. It’s important to factor this into your decision if you expect heavy VPN usage.

5. Scalability

As your business grows, so too can your Cisco Meraki network. The MX84 is designed to scale easily, allowing you to add additional Meraki devices and services without overhauling your entire system. The cloud-based management system makes it easy to integrate new locations or users as needed. If your organization expands, upgrading your Meraki MX84 License will ensure access to all advanced features and capabilities.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Cisco Meraki MX84 is a solid choice for businesses that require robust security without sacrificing speed. Its 500 Mbps throughput is more than enough for most small and mid-sized businesses, though it may not be sufficient for larger enterprises or high-traffic environments. Similarly, its VPN capabilities are ideal for moderate usage, but power users might encounter limitations.

In terms of real-world performance, the MX84 consistently delivers fast and reliable internet connectivity. Even when handling high volumes of traffic, it maintains stability, ensuring that business operations are not disrupted. However, as with any hardware, its performance can vary based on the network environment and configuration.

Pricing and Licensing

One of the critical aspects of the Cisco Meraki MX84 is its licensing model. To fully utilize the device, you need to purchase a Meraki MX84 License, which grants access to the cloud management platform and advanced security features. Licensing is available in different tiers, allowing businesses to choose the level of functionality that best suits their needs.

While the initial cost of the MX84 hardware is competitive for its range, it’s essential to factor in the ongoing licensing fees. These can add up over time, particularly if you require advanced features or need to manage a large network. However, many users find the ease of management and the range of security features make the licensing costs worthwhile.

Pros and Cons

As with any device, the Cisco Meraki MX84 has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick summary to help you decide whether it's the right fit for your business.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: The cloud-based Meraki Dashboard is user-friendly, even for less-experienced IT teams.
• Strong Security: Robust security features, including UTM and AMP, protect your network from modern threats.
• Remote Management: The ability to manage the network remotely saves time and reduces the need for on-site IT staff.
• Scalability: Perfect for growing businesses, with easy integration of new users and locations.
• Power Redundancy: Dual power supplies add extra reliability, minimizing downtime.

Cons:

• Pricey Licensing: The cost of the Meraki MX84 License can add up, particularly for businesses that require advanced features.
• Limited VPN Throughput: The 250 Mbps VPN throughput may not be sufficient for businesses with high VPN usage.
• Cloud Dependency: If your internet goes down, so does your access to the Meraki Dashboard, potentially limiting your ability to manage the network.

Who Should Consider the Cisco Meraki MX84?

The Cisco Meraki MX84 is a perfect fit for small to medium-sized businesses with multiple branch locations or remote workers. It’s especially beneficial for organizations that prioritize security but don’t have the resources for an extensive on-site IT team. The cloud-based management, combined with powerful security features, makes it a standout choice for companies looking for an easy-to-manage, scalable solution.

However, larger enterprises or businesses with high VPN usage may need to look at alternatives with higher throughput and more robust VPN capabilities.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Cisco Meraki MX84 is a reliable and feature-packed security appliance that simplifies network management while providing top-tier security. It’s particularly suitable for businesses that need cloud-managed solutions without the complexity of traditional hardware. While the Meraki MX84 License adds to the cost, its benefits far outweigh the price for businesses that prioritize security and ease of use.

If you’re in the market for a scalable, easy-to-manage network security solution, the Cisco Meraki MX84 is worth considering.