Cisco Meraki
Cisco Meraki is a cloud-managed IT platform and subsidiary of Cisco Systems, specializing in hardware and software solutions for enterprise networking, security, and IoT connectivity.[1] It provides intuitive, centralized management of devices such as wireless access points, switches, security appliances, and cameras through a single dashboard, enabling scalable deployment and remote administration for organizations worldwide.[2] Founded in 2006 as a research project at MIT aimed at delivering affordable wireless mesh networking to underserved areas, Meraki initially focused on innovative Wi-Fi technologies before expanding into broader cloud-controlled IT infrastructure.[3] In November 2012, Cisco announced its intent to acquire the company for $1.2 billion in cash, a deal completed in December of that year, integrating Meraki's cloud-native approach to enhance Cisco's portfolio in software-defined networking and security.[4] Since the acquisition, Cisco Meraki has grown significantly, now employing over 2,700 people and serving more than 838,000 customers who manage approximately 16.6 million devices globally.[2] The platform's core strength lies in its cloud-first architecture, which simplifies network operations by automating configurations, providing real-time visibility, and integrating advanced security features like SD-WAN, firewalls, and intrusion prevention across distributed environments.[5] Key product lines include: Cisco Meraki emphasizes ease of use, with features like automatic firmware updates, layered network policies, and API integrations that reduce operational complexity for IT teams in sectors ranging from education and retail to healthcare and large enterprises.[6] Its commitment to security is underscored by compliance with standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI, alongside robust data encryption and regular vulnerability assessments.[7] As of 2025, the platform continues to innovate in areas like AI-driven insights and hybrid work support, powering resilient networks that adapt to evolving digital demands.[1]History
Founding and Early Development
Cisco Meraki was founded in 2006 in Mountain View, California, by Sanjit Biswas, John Bicket, and Hans Robertson, all graduates of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).[8][9] The company originated from the founders' work on MIT's Roofnet project, a research initiative aimed at creating low-cost, city-wide wireless mesh networks using rooftop antennas to provide affordable internet access in urban areas.[8] Initially, Meraki focused on developing mesh networking technology to enable community-driven Wi-Fi deployments, targeting underserved regions and small wireless internet service providers with simple, scalable hardware.[10] Meraki's first product, the Meraki Mini indoor access point, was introduced in late 2006 as a beta offering priced at $50, including cloud-based management capabilities.[11] By 2008, the company launched its enterprise wireless access points and accompanying cloud management tools, emphasizing ease of deployment, remote configuration, and centralized oversight without on-site controllers.[3] This approach marked an early innovation in cloud-managed networking, allowing administrators to monitor and update networks via a web-based dashboard.[12] To fuel its growth, Meraki secured $5 million in Series A funding in February 2007, led by Sequoia Capital with participation from Google and former Google employees.[13] This was followed by a $20 million Series B round in January 2008 from Sequoia Capital, DAG Ventures, Northgate Capital, and other investors, supporting expansions in free Wi-Fi initiatives for non-profits and communities.[14] Subsequent rounds included $10 million in 2009, $28 million in 2010, and $15 million in 2011, along with a $40 million round in July 2012, bringing total funding to $80 million by the time of acquisition.[15][16] Key early milestones included pivoting from community mesh networks to enterprise solutions, with the introduction of security appliances and switches by 2010 to address broader networking needs.[3] By 2012, Meraki had grown to serve more than 10,000 customers, including mid-sized businesses, educational institutions, and organizations, while refining the Meraki Dashboard as a unified platform for cloud-based network control.[17] This period established Meraki's reputation for simplifying complex networking through its innovative, subscription-based cloud model.[10]Acquisition by Cisco
Cisco announced its intent to acquire Meraki on November 18, 2012, and completed the transaction on December 20, 2012. Under the terms of the agreement, Cisco paid approximately $1.2 billion in cash, along with retention-based incentives, to acquire the entire business and operations of the company.[4][18] The strategic rationale behind the acquisition centered on Cisco's goal to strengthen its cloud-managed networking offerings amid the growing adoption of software-defined networking. Meraki's cloud-based platform provided a compelling solution for simplifying IT management, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and distributed enterprises seeking scalable, centralized control over wireless and wired networks. By integrating Meraki's technology, Cisco aimed to accelerate its transition toward software-centric architectures that reduce operational complexity and enable faster deployment.[4][19] In the immediate aftermath, Meraki's three co-founders—Sanjit Biswas, John Bicket, and Hans Robertson—were retained in key leadership roles to lead Cisco's newly formed Cloud Networking Group, ensuring continuity in innovation and vision. The company's headquarters remained in San Francisco, serving as the base for the group, while Meraki's operations were integrated into Cisco's broader ecosystem without altering its fundamental cloud-managed model. This approach preserved Meraki's agile culture and customer-focused development while leveraging Cisco's global resources.[19][20] The acquisition valued Meraki at over $1 billion, conferring unicorn status on the startup and highlighting its rapid growth from a seed-stage venture to a market leader in cloud networking. This move strategically positioned Cisco to challenge competitors like Aruba Networks and Juniper Networks in the burgeoning sector of cloud-controlled enterprise infrastructure.[16][21]Post-Acquisition Expansion
Following its acquisition by Cisco in late 2012, Meraki relocated its primary operations to a larger facility in San Francisco to support accelerated scaling, with the company expanding its office footprint there by 2018 to accommodate ongoing growth.[22] Globally, Meraki established additional offices in key regions, including London, Sydney, Bengaluru, and Mexico City, enabling broader support for international deployments and customer service across more than 100 countries.[23][24] Meraki's active networks grew substantially under Cisco's ownership, from approximately 16,000 networks at the time of acquisition to over 1 million active networks by 2017, doubling to 2 million by 2019, reaching 4 million by 2022, and 5 million by 2024.[25][26][27][28] As of 2025, Meraki manages more than 16.6 million devices across over 838,000 customers worldwide, reflecting its penetration into diverse sectors like education, retail, and healthcare.[2] Key milestones included the launch of advanced SD-WAN capabilities in 2015, which introduced dual-active VPN connectivity and Intelligent WAN features to enhance bandwidth efficiency for branch offices.[29] In 2019, Meraki integrated with Cisco Umbrella to enable seamless cloud security deployment across wireless and SD-WAN fabrics, allowing administrators to link policies effortlessly for threat protection.[30] By 2023, Meraki enhanced its offerings with AI-powered radio resource management (AI-RRM), including auto-RF optimization that uses machine learning to dynamically adjust channel selection and transmit power based on real-time interference and utilization data.[31][32] Meraki's workforce expanded to over 2,700 employees by 2025, supporting global operations and innovation.[2] Leadership included Lawrence Huang, who has served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Network Platform and Wireless since 2020, overseeing strategy for Meraki's wireless and platform solutions.[33] In recent years, Meraki emphasized solutions for hybrid work environments post-2020, leveraging cloud management to deliver secure, automated connectivity for distributed teams across offices, homes, and remote sites.[34] The company advanced 5G integration through partnerships, such as launching the Meraki MG52 and MG52E cellular gateways in 2024 with carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T to simplify fixed wireless access and scale secure connectivity for businesses.[35][36] Sustainability initiatives focused on energy-efficient hardware, with Meraki promoting cloud-managed IT to reduce on-premises infrastructure needs and lower emissions through optimized resource utilization.[37]Products
Wireless Access Points (MR Series)
The Cisco Meraki MR series consists of cloud-managed wireless access points designed for enterprise Wi-Fi deployments, providing reliable connectivity through 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) and 802.11ax extended (Wi-Fi 6E) standards. Newer models support Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) for enhanced performance in high-density environments.[38] These access points leverage advanced technologies such as multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO), orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA), and beamforming to enhance capacity, efficiency, and coverage in dense environments.[39][38] Key features of the MR series include automatic radio frequency (RF) optimization, which uses a dedicated scanning radio to monitor spectrum utilization and dynamically adjust channel selection, transmit power, and band steering for optimal performance without manual intervention. Location analytics are enabled through built-in Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons and Wi-Fi triangulation, allowing organizations to track assets, visitors, and user behavior via the Meraki dashboard. Seamless roaming is supported for mobile devices, utilizing 802.11r, 802.11k, and 802.11v protocols to enable fast handoffs between access points, minimizing disruptions in voice and video applications.[40][39][41] Representative models in the MR series cater to diverse needs. The MR36 is a 2x2:2 MU-MIMO access point suitable for general office and small business settings, offering up to 1.5 Gbps aggregate throughput across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support via 802.3af and an integrated BLE radio. For high-density environments like conference rooms or retail spaces, the MR46 provides enterprise-grade performance with 4x4:4 MU-MIMO, achieving up to 2.98 Gbps aggregate throughput, a 2.5 Gbps multigigabit Ethernet port, and 802.3at PoE compatibility. The MR84, designed for challenging indoor industrial or warehouse applications requiring external antennas, features 4x4:4 MU-MIMO under 802.11ac Wave 2, delivering up to 2.5 Gbps throughput and robust construction for flexible mounting. All models include built-in BLE beacons for proximity applications and support up to 5.9 Gbps aggregate throughput in higher-end variants like the MR55 for ultra-high-density scenarios.[40][39][42] These access points are commonly deployed in offices for employee connectivity, retail environments for customer engagement and analytics, and educational institutions for student device support. Integration with Meraki Location services enables asset tracking and foot traffic analysis, enhancing operational insights in these settings. Performance is bolstered by PoE for simplified installation and dedicated security radios for 24/7 wireless intrusion detection and prevention (WIDS/WIPS).[40][39][38]Ethernet Switches (MS Series)
The Cisco Meraki MS series comprises cloud-managed Ethernet switches engineered for deployment across access, aggregation, and core layers in enterprise networks, enabling simplified management through the Meraki dashboard. These switches support virtual stacking of up to eight units, facilitating centralized configuration and monitoring without requiring physical interconnections, which enhances scalability for distributed environments.[43] Key models in the MS series cater to diverse network needs, with the MS120 serving as a compact Layer 2 access switch optimized for branch offices, featuring 24 or 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports alongside 4 SFP uplinks for flexible connectivity. The MS410 targets campus aggregation with multigigabit capabilities, offering configurations such as 32 x 1GbE SFP ports, 4 x 10GbE SFP+ uplinks, and 40G stacking ports to handle high-throughput demands. For cloud-scale applications, the MS390 provides advanced access switching with 48 x 2.5GbE or 5GbE ports, including multigigabit UPoE options, making it suitable for bandwidth-intensive setups.[44][45][46] The series incorporates robust power delivery features, including PoE++ compliance under IEEE 802.3bt, supporting up to 90W per port on models like the MS390 to power high-demand devices such as Wi-Fi 6 access points. Dynamic power allocation optimizes energy use across ports, while traffic shaping mechanisms enforce Quality of Service (QoS) policies to prioritize critical traffic and mitigate congestion.[46][45] In practical deployments, MS series switches address campus wiring closets and data center interconnects, providing resilient topologies for reliable wired infrastructure. They integrate seamlessly with Meraki's MR series wireless access points for unified wired and wireless oversight via the cloud platform, streamlining network operations.[47][45] Advanced capabilities include Layer 3 routing protocols such as OSPF on models like the MS390 and MS410, enabling efficient inter-VLAN communication without external routers. IGMP snooping optimizes multicast traffic handling, reducing bandwidth waste in video streaming scenarios, while cloud-based analytics detect anomalies like unusual traffic patterns for proactive security.[46][45]Security and SD-WAN Appliances (MX and Z Series)
The Cisco Meraki MX and Z series appliances serve as edge security gateways that integrate next-generation firewalling, VPN connectivity, and SD-WAN capabilities to enable secure, optimized network access for distributed environments. These devices provide unified threat management, including intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), advanced malware protection via Cisco AMP, and content filtering, all managed through the cloud-based Meraki dashboard. The MX series targets branch and enterprise deployments, while the Z series focuses on teleworker scenarios, both supporting automatic configuration and seamless integration for site-to-site and remote user connectivity.[48][49] Key models in the MX series include the MX68 for small branches, offering up to 50 users with 700 Mbps stateful firewall throughput and 400 Mbps site-to-site VPN throughput, featuring dual GbE WAN ports and 10 GbE LAN ports (including two PoE+).[50] The MX105 suits larger enterprise sites, supporting up to 750 users with 3 Gbps firewall throughput and 1 Gbps VPN throughput, equipped with multiple 10 GbE SFP+ and GbE interfaces for high-capacity deployments. For the Z series, the Z4 provides a compact teleworker solution with integrated Wi-Fi 6, delivering 500 Mbps stateful firewall throughput and 250 Mbps VPN throughput, suitable for up to 5 devices via one GbE WAN, four GbE LAN ports (one PoE), and dual-band wireless. These models emphasize scalability, with performance metrics tested under standard conditions like RFC 2544 for firewall throughput.[51][52][49][48] Core features encompass Auto VPN for effortless mesh topology creation using IKEv2/IPsec, enabling secure site-to-site tunnels without manual configuration, and SD-WAN functionalities such as traffic steering based on application performance, dynamic path selection, and policy-based routing to optimize bandwidth and reduce latency. Security is enhanced by Layer 7 firewall rules, SNORT-based IDS/IPS, GeoIP filtering, and SSL decryption, alongside integration with Cisco Umbrella for DNS-layer protection against threats. Dual-WAN support ensures failover and load balancing across uplinks, while advanced malware protection includes sandboxing and real-time threat intelligence from Cisco Talos. IPS throughput aligns with firewall capabilities, reaching up to 3 Gbps on models like the MX105 under prevention mode.[48][53][49] These appliances are deployed in branch offices for secure WAN optimization and in remote work setups to extend corporate networks, providing consistent policy enforcement and visibility. For instance, Auto VPN facilitates hybrid cloud connectivity, while traffic steering prioritizes critical applications like VoIP over less sensitive traffic during congestion. Integration with the Meraki cloud dashboard allows centralized monitoring and zero-touch provisioning, briefly referencing its role in overall network management.[48][49]Additional Hardware Solutions
Cisco Meraki offers a range of specialized hardware solutions beyond its core networking products, including smart cameras, environmental sensors, and cellular gateways, all managed through the unified cloud dashboard for enhanced visibility and automation. These devices enable organizations to address physical security, environmental monitoring, and connectivity challenges in diverse environments such as retail, healthcare, and remote operations.[5] The MV Series consists of cloud-managed smart cameras designed for video surveillance with built-in intelligence. These cameras feature high-resolution imaging, such as 4K in models like the MV63 outdoor dome camera, and AI-based object detection for people and vehicles, reducing false alerts and enabling proactive security responses. For instance, the MV93 outdoor fisheye camera provides 360-degree panoramic views with a 12.4MP sensor and on-device processing for edge analytics, which minimizes cloud bandwidth usage by performing initial analysis locally before uploading relevant footage. Indoor options, such as the MV13M mini-dome, support 1080p resolution and person detection, with Power over Ethernet (PoE) compatibility for simplified deployment. These cameras integrate seamlessly with Meraki's wireless access points and switches for comprehensive physical security in use cases like retail stores for loss prevention or hospitals for patient monitoring.[54][55][56] The MT Series includes smart sensors for real-time environmental monitoring, helping organizations maintain optimal conditions in IT closets, smart buildings, and occupied spaces. Key models like the MT10 temperature and humidity sensor detect ranges from 0°C to 55°C with ±0.3°C accuracy and 0% to 95% relative humidity with ±2.5% precision, sending alerts for deviations that could impact equipment or occupant comfort. The MT15 air quality monitor tracks CO2 levels, particulate matter (PM2.5), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), and noise, integrating with HVAC systems to automate ventilation adjustments and improve indoor air quality. With battery life up to five years and cloud-based thresholds for alerts, these sensors support use cases such as preventing data center overheating in IT environments or enhancing workplace health in offices and schools through proactive notifications via the Meraki dashboard.[57][58][59][60] The MG Series provides cellular gateways for reliable 4G/5G connectivity in scenarios where wired broadband is unavailable or unreliable. Models like the MG51 offer sub-6 GHz 5G with up to 2 Gbps downlink throughput, dual SIM slots for carrier failover, and integrated antennas for easy deployment in fixed or mobile setups. Features include automated SIM provisioning, real-time signal monitoring, and seamless integration with Meraki SD-WAN for automatic traffic routing during outages, ensuring business continuity. These gateways are particularly suited for remote sites like manufacturing facilities, vehicle-mounted applications for field services, and temporary pop-up locations such as event venues or vaccine clinics, where they provide instant Ethernet connectivity without complex wiring.[61][62][63]Mobile Device Management (Systems Manager)
Cisco Meraki Systems Manager is a cloud-based Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) solution that incorporates Mobile Device Management (MDM) capabilities to centrally provision, monitor, and secure endpoint devices across organizations.[64] It enables IT administrators to manage diverse device fleets without on-premises infrastructure, leveraging the Meraki Dashboard for over-the-air configuration and policy enforcement.[65] This approach supports scalable deployment for businesses handling thousands of endpoints while ensuring compliance with security standards.[66] At its core, Systems Manager facilitates zero-touch provisioning for devices running iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, Android, and Windows operating systems, allowing automatic enrollment upon activation without manual intervention.[64] For Apple devices, this is achieved through Apple Automated Device Enrollment (ADE), which requires qualification in the Apple program and integrates with Apple Push Notification service (APNs).[64] Android supports both BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) mode for personal endpoints and Device Owner mode for fully managed corporate devices, while Windows and macOS use agent-based installation combined with MDM profiles for enrollment.[64] This functionality accommodates hybrid environments, supporting both personal and corporate-owned fleets by applying tailored policies that balance user privacy and organizational control.[64] Key features include app deployment, which allows administrators to push applications via Apple's Volume Purchase Program (VPP) for iOS/macOS or Google Play Store for Android, ensuring consistent software distribution across fleets.[64] Geofencing enables the definition of virtual boundaries using device GPS data, triggering alerts or policy changes when devices enter or exit designated areas, such as restricting access outside a corporate campus.[67] Remote wipe and lock commands provide rapid response to lost or stolen devices, with options to factory reset (wipe) or temporarily lock iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows endpoints directly from the Dashboard; these require supervised enrollment for Android and iOS to ensure full execution.[68] Compliance reporting is handled through MDM profiles that monitor encryption status, OS versions, app installations, and policy adherence, generating alerts for violations like jailbroken devices or unauthorized software.[64] Systems Manager integrates seamlessly with other Meraki products to enhance endpoint security and policy enforcement. It ties into MX security appliances for network access control, allowing only Systems Manager-enrolled devices to connect to corporate networks via certificate-based authentication and group policy alignment.[69] For location-based policies, it leverages MV smart cameras to correlate device positions with video feeds, enabling advanced geofencing scenarios like asset tracking in physical spaces.[65] Common use cases span enterprise mobility, where organizations deploy Systems Manager to manage remote workforces by enforcing VPN connections and data loss prevention on laptops and mobiles.[66] In K-12 education, it supports 1:1 device programs by automating Chromebook and iPad provisioning, applying content filters, and monitoring usage to comply with student privacy regulations like FERPA.[70] Healthcare providers utilize it to secure patient-facing devices, such as tablets for bedside charting, through HIPAA-compliant policies that include remote wipes for lost equipment and geofencing to limit access within hospital premises.[71] Advanced tools extend management capabilities with kiosk mode, which locks devices to a single application for dedicated purposes like digital signage or point-of-sale systems on supervised iOS or Android endpoints.[68] Single-app restrictions further customize this by allowing limited multitasking while blocking non-essential functions, ideal for field service devices.[64] Analytics for device health provide dashboards tracking battery levels, storage usage, network activity, and security posture, helping administrators proactively identify issues like low encryption compliance or anomalous locations.[68]Cloud Management Platform
Dashboard and User Interface
The Cisco Meraki Dashboard is a web-based, multi-tenant interface that enables centralized network management through an intuitive browser-accessible platform, with complementary mobile app support for on-the-go monitoring.[72] It supports role-based access control, allowing administrators to assign permissions such as full access for comprehensive configuration and monitoring, read-only for viewing without modifications, or limited roles tailored to specific functions like camera management.[73] This structure facilitates secure, scalable oversight for organizations of varying sizes, including multi-tenant environments where managed service providers (MSPs) can oversee multiple client organizations via a unified MSP Portal.[74] Key components of the Dashboard include the Network-wide section, which encompasses Monitor for real-time alerts and event logging, Clients for detailed device visibility across wireless, wired, and security appliances, and Configure for applying settings to devices and policies.[75] The Monitor tab provides network-wide alerts on connectivity issues, configuration changes, and performance metrics, while the Clients page offers drill-down views into individual devices, displaying attributes like status, usage, policy enforcement, and location data, with tools for actions such as packet captures or client disconnection.[76] The Configure section streamlines device setup, including SSID management for access points, port configurations for switches, and firewall rules for appliances, all pushed centrally without on-site intervention. Core features enhance usability with real-time topology maps that visualize integrated networks of MX security appliances, MS switches, and MR access points, aiding in rapid issue identification and troubleshooting.[77] Change logs track configuration updates and firmware upgrades across the organization, while scheduled reports deliver customizable summaries of usage statistics, client activity, and performance trends via email.[78] The interface emphasizes intuitive search capabilities and drill-down analytics for pinpointing anomalies, complemented by mobile app notifications for critical outages and alerts, ensuring proactive response.[76] By 2025, the Dashboard has incorporated enhanced AI-driven insights through Meraki Assurance, providing predictive maintenance alerts and contextual network health summaries to preempt disruptions and optimize performance.[79] These advancements build on the platform's foundational simplicity, enabling administrators to focus on strategic management rather than routine tasks.[80]Architecture and Scalability
Cisco Meraki's cloud management platform utilizes a hybrid cloud architecture that combines on-premises hardware with a centralized, multi-tenant control plane hosted primarily on Amazon Web Services (AWS). This model separates management and user traffic into an out-of-band control plane, ensuring that user data flows directly between endpoints without traversing the cloud, while management data—such as configurations and telemetry—is handled securely. Devices connect to the cloud via persistent, encrypted DTLS tunnels using AES-256 encryption, HTTPS, and efficient protocol buffers, maintaining a low idle bandwidth of approximately 1 kbps to minimize overhead.[7][81] The platform's scalability supports over 16.5 million active devices across global networks, accommodating deployments from small sites to enterprise-scale operations with hundreds of thousands of endpoints per organization. Auto-scaling mechanisms dynamically adjust resources to manage traffic spikes, leveraging custom databases and a distributed infrastructure across multiple regions to prevent bottlenecks. This design eliminates single points of failure through independent data centers with real-time replication and automated failover, enabling seamless operation even during regional outages.[82][7][81] Data processing emphasizes centralized control for efficiency, where administrators push configurations and policies from the cloud dashboard to edge devices, which then enforce them locally. Devices incorporate local caching of the last known good configuration, allowing continued operation and basic functionality during internet or cloud disruptions, with synchronization resuming upon reconnection. This approach balances centralized oversight with edge autonomy, reducing latency for routine tasks while ensuring compliance with global policies.[7][81] Reliability features include a 99.99% uptime service level agreement (SLA), backed by 24/7 monitoring, geo-redundant storage, and nightly backups to third-party cloud providers. Data replication occurs in real-time across regions—typically within 60 seconds—providing disaster recovery and high availability without manual intervention. Firmware updates are delivered seamlessly over the cloud, with devices downloading images while operational; although a brief reboot is required (often under one minute for access points), administrators can schedule them to minimize impact, and automatic rollback occurs if issues arise.[7][83][81]APIs and Integrations
Cisco Meraki offers the Meraki Dashboard API, a RESTful interface that enables developers to programmatically provision, configure, monitor, and manage networks through HTTPS requests and JSON payloads.[84] This API supports automation at scale, allowing interaction with the Meraki cloud platform to handle tasks such as adding organizations, networks, devices, VLANs, and SSIDs.[85] As of September 2025, the API includes 855 endpoints, organized into categories like organizations (e.g., managing users and licenses), networks (e.g., configuring SSIDs and firewall rules), and devices (e.g., updating firmware and retrieving status).[86] Common applications of the API involve scripting bulk deployments for rapid network setup, pulling real-time telemetry data for performance analytics and alerting, and integrating with IT service management (ITSM) systems such as ServiceNow to automate incident creation from network events.[87][88] Authentication relies on API keys generated in the dashboard, which are passed via theX-Cisco-Meraki-API-Key header and can be scoped to specific permissions for enhanced security; users are limited to two active keys without expiration.[85] Additionally, webhooks provide push notifications for real-time events, configurable under the API & Webhooks section to send alerts to external services.[85]
The API ecosystem features integrations with major cloud providers, including AWS and Azure, to support hybrid cloud deployments via virtual MX (vMX) appliances that extend SD-WAN capabilities across on-premises and cloud environments.[89] Third-party extensions are available through the Cisco Networking App Marketplace, such as the Splunk Add-on for collecting and analyzing Meraki logs and events, and the ServiceNow Connector for synchronizing device data into CMDB and generating incidents.[90][91] In 2025, notable updates added endpoints for multicast routing, including static forward rules and settings for MX networks, alongside enhancements for policy management to streamline advanced configurations.[86]