A glance at Cisco Meraki MX68CW
Cisco Meraki released a couple of new devices towards the later part of 2018. One of those new MX appliance models was deployed for a project that required a rapid deployment and full delivery network connectivity with access to all corporate services and applications. This is a quick glance at the MX68CW appliance and summary to help to get an understanding of its capabilities. Standard technical features & performance aren’t the focus of this analysis. A few key features that are thought to be specific for this model were chosen to analyse here.
Compared to similar devices in the MX family, earlier versions of MX64 & MX65 series’s the new MX68CW is similar in dimensions and weight only to exceed them marginally. However it would be nice if it is a bit lighter, given it’s an ideal compact & mobile peripheral . A special mention for an item to the wish list — enabling full wireless features including firewall, (as available in MR wireless access points) at least for the clients purchasing Advance Security license, will be useful.
All-in-one-box — One of the attractive features is, this is all-in-one box device. Provides firewall, routing, switching with PoE, wireless and uplink connectivity via a built-in cellular modem. Cellular modem is certified for spectrum use across the AU region. Potential cost saver and convenient in not having to maintain other hardware such as external cellular modems. All-in-one makes it a good choice catering to setting up rapid, mobile and popup office deployment scenarios perfectly.
Built-in Cellular Modem — A little disappointing that the built in cellular modem cannot be used as the primary uplink when setting it up for the first time. This device requires a wired connection plugged in via one of the two internet ports, to connect to Meraki cloud and download the required configuration files & updates. Once this happens it will operate using cellular modem connection as its primary uplink or the sole connection. An item in the wish list for Meraki to enable cellular connection for first time setup.
Custom APN configuration — Meraki has built the option to configure a custom APN for the cellular connection, which is a handy feature for groups that has private networks with carriers;but there isn’t a way to configure authentication. Customer will have to run an APN open with no authentication. This is not ideal for hybrid situations such as running a MPLS network connection. Another drawback in the device; In Meraki’s defence they are made to simplify and work straight through internet connections. But would be a good feature to have enabled in future updates.
Built-in Antennas — Two built in antennas provide coverage for both cellular and WiFi. Both radios are built into the same antennas and seem to perform well. Testing was only carried out in an area where cellular signal is good and it shall be tested in an area with less coverage to check how well these antennas gain signals. It would be also beneficial for customers if there is an option to connect to external antennas for cellular coverage;another feature to add to the wish list. It would be a great assistance and a feature to have when used in a low coverage areas such as remote and regional locations.
WAN Uplink configuration — If this device is used for a hybrid network setup or pure MPLS deployment, WAN uplink has to be done via a LAN port. Internet ports are not able to provide this uplink functionality. Suspect that due to automatic NAT function happening within Meraki OS for internet uplink. Most MPLS connection types require an NTU or modem to provide the uplink, NAT would create issues for return traffic, hence using an Internet port for private WAN isn’t an option.
In general MX68CW has shown performances as expected. No failures were experienced so far. Meraki data sheet comparisons indicate this appliance has higher throughput for Firewall & VPN than earlier models of MX64 & MX65s. And recommended client limit is at 50, as same as earlier models. Verdict is that MX68CW is a good compact device to provide network connectivity for mobile sites & locations, compact environments and for rapid deployments.
