Managing networks does not have to be complex. With Cisco’s integration of Catalyst switches into the Meraki dashboard, businesses can streamline operations, improve security, and simplify IT management—all while protecting their existing investments. Let’s explore how this game-changing solution can transform your network.
A hot topic recently is the integration of Cisco Catalyst switches with the Meraki dashboard, which represents a significant advancement in your network management. While cloud management allows network administrators to oversee catalyst switches using the Meraki dashboard, this new integration (Cisco Wireless) provides a more comprehensive view of network performance, configurations, and traffic data; to name a few.
This blog will dig into how the Meraki cloud management for Catalyst can boost network efficiency and help you determine if upgrading to their technology is the right move for your business. It is worth noting that this integration mostly applies to the Catalyst 9000 series and will progressively become available for all devices.
Understanding Cisco Catalyst Switches
Cisco Catalyst switches are enterprise-grade devices known for their reliability and versatility. They power essential functions such as routing data, segmenting networks, and providing advanced security, making them a cornerstone for robust business networks.
They offer customization and manageability and are known for their reliability, scalability, and comprehensive suite of management features, making them a popular choice in enterprise networking environments. For many years, Catalyst devices have provided a robust range of networking solutions for businesses, even though it also involved manual configurations and limited visibility.
What is Cloud Monitoring for Catalyst?
Cisco has introduced cloud monitoring capabilities for Catalyst 9000 series switches and Catalyst 9800 wireless controllers. Cloud monitoring for Catalyst allows users to view device statistics, and configurations, and access diagnostic tools directly within the Meraki dashboard.
However, it's important to note that configuration changes for Catalyst devices must still be performed through traditional interfaces, as they operate in 'Monitor Only' mode on the dashboard.
How Does Meraki Catalyst Integration Work?
Meraki Dashboard Integration: By integrating Catalyst switches and controllers, like the Catalyst 9800 series, into the Meraki dashboard, businesses can monitor network performance, troubleshoot problems, and gain insights—all from one easy-to-use platform. This integration simplifies troubleshooting by consolidating monitoring tools into a single interface.
Monitor Only Status: While right now you can view and manage Catalyst devices on the Meraki dashboard, they are typically marked as “Monitor Only," meaning that configuration options are limited, however, you can still have access to valuable performance data.
Supported Devices: Now, cloud monitoring supports Catalyst series 9200/L, 9300/L/X, and 9500 series running IOS-XE versions 17.3.x to 17.8.
Migration to Meraki Management Mode
Currently, Cisco offers a migration path for selected Catalyst devices, including the Catalyst 9300 series switches, so the option of transitioning to a full Meraki management mode is possible. The migration to Meraki Management Mode enables certain Catalyst switches to be fully managed through the Meraki dashboard.
This transition provides a unified management experience but requires compatibility checks and may involve a factory reset for the devices.
Transitioning to Meraki Management Mode involves a few key steps:
Verifying device compatibility
Updating to the required IOS-XE version
Backing up existing configurations
Planning a brief downtime window for the migration
BTI experts can guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth and efficient process with minimal disruption to your business.
Dual-Mode Access Points
Dual-mode access points developed by Cisco, like the Catalyst 916x series, can operate in either Catalyst or Meraki management modes; allowing organizations to choose their preferred management platform and switch between modes according to their needs.
Cisco’s strategy from now on is to offer a lot more flexibility and protection with these integrations, this allows businesses and organizations to leverage the benefits of their cloud management while using the existing hardware investments.
Benefits of Integrating Catalyst and Legacy Products into the Meraki Ecosystem
Enhanced Visibility and Monitoring
Cloud monitoring for Catalyst gives businesses real-time insights into their network’s performance and security. From device health to traffic patterns, IT teams can spot and resolve issues faster, ensuring smoother operations and a better user experience.
Investment Protection
Being able to manage existing Catalyst hardware through the Meraki dashboard allows companies to maximize their current investments without the need to replace hardware immediately, obtaining the most value for their investment while transitioning into a more modern management solution.
Centralized Management
As we mentioned before, monitor and manage all your network devices, including Catalyst switches and Meraki devices, from one intuitive dashboard, simplifying network operations and management tasks.
Improved Efficiency and Performance
Automated updates and monitoring reduce manual tasks, enhancing network efficiency. Access valuable performance data marked as "Monitor Only" in your device with Cisco Meraki cloud monitoring for Catalyst.
Simplified Troubleshooting
You will be able to quickly identify and resolve issues using the dashboard's intuitive interface and diagnostic tools, streamlining problem resolution.
Scalability and Flexibility
Easily scale your network to accommodate growth and changes without significant overhead. Integrating Catalyst switches and wireless controllers, like the Catalyst 9800 series, into the Meraki dashboard simplifies centralized management and visualization of network topology.
Visualize Network Topology
See a complete map of your network, including all connected devices, improving your understanding of the network structure and relationships between devices.
Enhanced Security
Monitor and manage security settings across your entire network from the Meraki dashboard, ensuring consistent security policies and rapid response to potential threats.
Simplified Network Operations
Because the Meraki dashboard is extremely user-friendly, this integration simplifies complex network tasks, reducing the learning curve for IT staff while boosting operational efficiency; leading to more effective network management and maintenance.
How Does Cisco Meraki Cloud Monitoring for Catalyst Compare to Traditional Monitoring?
Compared to traditional monitoring, Cisco Meraki Cloud Monitoring for Catalyst stands out by offering a centralized, user-friendly platform. It reduces the complexity of managing hybrid networks, enhances performance with real-time updates, and lowers long-term costs by streamlining operations.
It offers improved reliability and performance, reduced costs over time, and enhanced security through advanced cloud-based monitoring features. That said, when the Meraki dashboard is added to this equation, it offers a centralized platform for monitoring both Meraki and Catalyst hardware, making management and troubleshooting simple.
How to Implement Cisco Meraki Cloud Monitoring for Catalyst Devices?
As with any transition period, moving on from traditional monitoring to cloud-based monitoring, it involves preparing your network, choosing the right tools, and following the best practices to ensure this implementation goes smoothly.
The Meraki dashboard provides a complete solution to guide you through this process, offering a unified view of your network devices.
Integrating Catalyst and Legacy Products into the Meraki Ecosystem
As mentioned before, in the second half of 2024 Cisco has been integrating Catalyst and other legacy products into the Meraki ecosystem to provide unified cloud management to its users. This huge initiative allows organizations to manage Meraki native devices and select Catalyst hardware through the Meraki Dashboard, resulting in a complete management experience in the easiest way possible.
Is It Worth Upgrading?
Upgrading your Cisco Catalyst switches, Wi-Fi, and controllers to integrate with the Meraki dashboard is a significant investment—but it pays off. Unified management through the Meraki dashboard delivers advanced features, enhanced security, and the flexibility to scale your network as your business grows.
With this integration, businesses gain:
Centralized visibility and monitoring for both Catalyst and Meraki devices
Real-time performance insights and simplified troubleshooting
Future-proof scalability to support growth
At BTI, we are experts in Cisco solutions, offering tailored integration services to unify your Catalyst and Meraki devices for simpler more efficient network management.
With Cisco financing options, upgrading your network is easier and more affordable than ever.
Partner with BTI to streamline operations, enhance performance, and maximize your IT investment.
Contact us today to explore your options and future-proof your network!
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