Tag: meraki

Wifi 6 Technology & The Best Access Points To Recommend

By Andrew Harmon

Posted On March 26, 2021

Wifi 6 Technology & The Best Access Points To Recommend

aruba cisco meraki fortiap fortinet meraki ruckus ruckus unleashed ruckus wireless wifi wireless wireless access points wireless network

What Is Wifi 6

Wifi 6 refers to the latest generation of wireless technology, also known as 802.11ax. Another name for this new standard is High Efficiency Wifi. It replaces 802.11ac, which now goes by Wifi 5. Wireless access points and routers incorporating the technology are increasingly ubiquitous. And many new smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other connected devices are Wifi 6-certified to take full advantage of its performance capabilities.

How Is Wifi 6 Different Than Wifi 5

Wifi 6 offers several advantages over Wifi 5 when it comes to speed, performance, and even security. First, speed – often referred to as throughput – can max out around 10 Gbps for a Wifi 6 device, compared to 7 Gbps for Wifi 5. While that’s an obvious upgrade, performance accounts for a significantly greater boost – some 400% in what’s called throughput per area.

What does that mean? It means more devices can connect in high-density areas with low to no latency. In other words, it’s real-world speed. Finally, security is better, too, as Wifi 6 supports WPA3 encryption standards, the most secure version of Wifi Protected Access protocol.

Why Upgrade to Wifi 6

While manufacturers seem to release new access points and routers constantly, an upgrade from a prior generation model to Wifi 6 is worth strong consideration. Wifi 6 supports more connected devices at greater speeds with better security than its predecessors. And the differences are significant. To recap:

Top speed more than a third better than the previous best
Throughput per area is 4 times better
And latency is 75% lower

These all represent major leaps in performance, and along with security improvements, make a strong argument for upgrading.

Which Brands Already Carry Wifi 6 Access Points

Several brands now offer Wifi 6 access points, with more on the way. Firewalls.com carries Wifi 6 access points from Fortinet, Aruba, Ruckus, and Cisco Meraki. Models range from small business/small office options to large enterprise and even stadiums and arenas. This generation of access points comes with indoor and outdoor options as well.

What Are The Recommended Wifi 6 Access Point Models

With the growing number of Wifi 6 access points now on the market, finding the right fit for a given scenario can be a challenge. So to meet that challenge and sift through the clutter, here are a few recommended Wifi 6 access points to suit varying business needs.

For Easy Deployment

Aruba Instant On AP22

It doesn’t get much easier than instant, does it? The Aruba Instant On AP22 offers a quick way into the Wifi 6 world. As its name suggests, you can basically turn it on and have wireless ready to go. This is ideal for a small business with limited staff or small branch office scenario.

And while the ease of deployment is nice, the AP22 also comes packed full of features at an affordable price. It includes mounting hardware, simple management tools, and even built-in security features like firewalling and application control, with no need for external controllers.

Tech Specs

Deployment: Indoor
Performance: 2×2:2 MU-MIMO
Mesh Support: Smart Mesh Wi-Fi
Throughput: 1.774 Gbps
PoE: PoE 802.3af

For Network Integration

Fortinet FortiAP 231F

Chances are if you’re a small to mid-size business, you already have a firewall. Maybe you even have a switch and endpoint, too. And if those solutions happen to be from one of the top security vendors out there, Fortinet, then this FortiAP 231F is a good pick for your entrée into Wifi 6.

The FortiAP 231F places you firmly into the Fortinet Security Fabric, which allows all your Fortinet solutions to communicate seamlessly with one another with single-pane-of-glass management. As far as what this access point offers specifically, it includes built-in security and a third radio for beacon and location-scanning. It can also optionally be managed through the cloud and is more than capable outside the Fortinet ecosystem as well.

Tech Specs

Deployment: Indoor
Performance: 2×2:2 MU-MIMO
Mesh Support: Yes
Throughput: 1.2 Gbps
PoE: PoE+ 802.3at

Look to the Cloud

Cisco Meraki MR44

Cisco Meraki is pretty well-known as a pioneer in the cloud space, and you can be a pioneer both there and in Wifi 6 by choosing the MR44 access point. The MR44 comes with Meraki’s noted cloud management architecture, which eliminates the need for traditional wireless controllers. It also offers zero-touch deployment, easy visibility and control throughout the network, and seamless firmware updates.

The MR44 itself is an enterprise grade access point, so if your performance demands are a little higher, it’s a great fit. As with other APs noted in this piece, Meraki’s MR Series features built-in security, plus a dedicated extra radio. And if you’re already a Meraki customer for other solutions, it integrates especially nicely.

Tech Specs

Deployment: Indoor
Performance: 4×4:4 MU-MIMO
Mesh Support: Self-healing, Zero-configuration
Throughput: 3 Gbps
PoE: PoE+ 802.3af/at

Let’s Take It Outside

Ruckus T750

Our previous three access points were designed for indoor deployments, but this AP from Ruckus doesn’t care where you set it up. The T750 offers the performance of Wifi 6 with IP-67 durability to withstand rough conditions, indoors or outdoors. When it comes to deployment options, think stadiums, airports, convention centers, and the like. Each individual T750 can handle over 1,000 users at once.

Ruckus offers the T750 in the controller-less Unleashed model as well as the traditional ZoneFlex option. Both are easy to deploy and manage. And they boast other special features, like built-in IoT radios, BeamFlex antennas to optimize connectivity, and the security of the aforementioned WPA3.

Tech Specs

Deployment: Outdoor
Performance: 4×4:4 MU-MIMO
Mesh Support: SmartMesh
Throughput: 2.4 Gbps
PoE: PoE++ 802.3bt

So these are just a few examples to help you navigate the wonderful world of Wifi 6. But wait, there’s more! Browse all the Wifi 6 options Firewalls.com has to offer. And if you need to talk it through a bit more, chat with an expert on our site or call 866-645-2140.

Cisco Meraki MX84 Review & Why It’s Ideal for Branch Office Security

By Andrew Harmon

Posted On March 3, 2021

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Cisco Meraki MX84 Review

The Cisco Meraki MX84 is, as the company would say, a security and SD-WAN appliance. In short, the MX84 is a firewall. And it’s a firewall meant for mid-sized businesses that need to easily and securely connect branches to HQ. We know IT professionals are hard to come by these days, so the simplicity of getting these appliances up and running is a major asset. On top of that, the MX84 boasts a variety of state-of-the-art features that make breaches anything but. Read on as we review the features and benefits of the Cisco Meraki MX84.

Is Cisco Meraki Any Good?

Cisco Meraki is a leading network security brand that gets high marks from independent third party evaluations – and customers – for its security and SD-WAN offerings. So what is it known for? Simplicity. Meraki embraced cloud computing before the cloud was cool. That is to say, easy, single-pane-of-glass management is kinda their thing.

So with Meraki, expect zero-touch (AKA remote) deployment of highly effective security solutions, all managed through the cloud. In other words, admins can adjust security settings of literally thousands of sites all at once, from anywhere. And don’t forget the connectivity! Auto VPN technology connects branch offices in just 3 clicks, through a simple, web-based dashboard.

What Businesses Would Be A Good Fit For the Meraki MX84?

Meraki recommends the MX84 for distributed deployments that require remote administration across medium branch environments. Industries like retail, restaurants, real estate, construction, or even healthcare, schools, and governments may apply.

To clarify, think of a business with multiple offices or project sites but limited IT staff. One or two admins can setup and manage a few – or a few dozen – of these appliances. They’ll offer network protection and secure connectivity without spending hours and miles on deployment. In sum, there are a lot of businesses and organizations that could benefit from the Meraki MX84. And FYI, Firewalls.com recommends the MX84 for deployments of up to 100 users.

What are some of the security features you’ll find?

Content Filtering
Web Search Filtering
YouTube for Schools
Intrusion Prevention
Cisco Advanced Malware Protection (AMP)
Geo-based Firewall Rules
Active Directory Integration

Cisco Meraki MX84 Specs

Stateful Firewall Throughput: 500 Mbps

Max VPN Throughput: 250 Mbps

Advanced Security Throughput: 200 Mbps

Network Interface Ports: 2 dedicated WAN uplinks, 8 GbE RJ45, 2 SFP, 1 USB 2.0 (for 3G/4G failover)

Maximum Concurrent VPN Tunnels: 100

Management: Cloud-based Cisco Meraki Dashboard

View the Datasheet

Cisco Meraki MX84 Pricing & Availability

The Meraki MX84 retails for under $2,000 as a standalone appliance. As a reminder, all Cisco Meraki appliances require an active license to operate. Therefore, you can choose an Advanced Security License to get the full feature set listed above. Or pick an Enterprise license if you’re less concerned about those advanced features. Both come in 1, 3, 5, 7, & 10 year options. Visit our site or talk to an expert at 866-645-2140 to learn more.

Top 3 Wireless Firewalls for 2021 – Which Wireless Firewall is Right for You?

By Andrew Harmon

Posted On January 14, 2021

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Top 3 Wireless Firewalls for 2021

Wireless firewalls simplify deployments for small businesses. Small offices are sometimes, well, small. Sometimes that power outlet is just a few feet too far to reach your desk. Or the Internet line from your ISP is juuust out of reach of your rack. Looking to shed the cords and cables for a hassle-free network security deployment? Wireless firewalls allow greater flexibility, mobility, and can even save on Total Cost of Ownership.

For the best wireless firewall to simplify your network security setup, Firewalls.com recommends:

What’s the difference between a wired & wireless firewall?

Wired firewalls pass data between the public Internet and other wired devices on your network through a physical ethernet cable connection. Wireless firewalls operate over a radio frequency that allows wireless devices to communicate with one another and the Internet without being hard-wired into a switch, firewall, or router.

While the wired setup has its advantages, it can be frustrating or sometimes impossible to deploy a firewall in an exact desired location as you are at the mercy of cord length and outlet placement. Plus, once a device is plugged into wired infrastructure, that machine needs to stay in that spot or risk coming unplugged.

A wireless firewall on the other hand, can be deployed in just about any location and users on the wireless network can move their machines wherever they like—assuming they stay in wireless signal range! Wireless firewalls also cut down on clutter and excessive equipment by reducing the number of cables, power supplies, and network switches needed to keep your network infrastructure powered and connected.

Fortinet FortiWifi FWF-40F Wireless Firewalls

The Fortinet FortiWifi FWF-40F wireless firewall can pump a serious amount of data over the airwaves! With a Threat Protection Throughput of up to 600 Mbps, most small offices will boast more than enough performance and security for their purposes.

This wireless firewall secures your network against advanced cyber threats with a SOC4 (system-on-a-chip) internal security processor that enables SD-WAN, accelerates performance, and integrates into the Fortinet Security Fabric.

The Fortinet Secure Fabric consolidates security tasks with automated tools and strategies such as:

Security-driven networking that unifies user experience across the network
Zero trust access which protects remote workers and users both on- and off-network.
Automated security operations driven by AI to prevent, detect, isolate, and respond to incidents automatically
Dynamic cloud security to guard cloud infrastructure and secure cloud applications

Wireless Support: 3×3 MU-MIMO 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wave 2 with 3 External Antenna (or antennas, or antennae)

SonicWall TZ270 Wireless-AC Firewalls

The TZ270 wireless firewall is a new addition to the SonicWall firewall family, released in the last quarter of 2020. Wireless networking tag teams with Zero-Touch Deployment to make installing this firewall on a small business network a snap. With the new features of SonicOS 7.0 powering it, the TZ270 wireless firewall integrates firewalling, switching, and wireless capability with a single-pane-of-glass management dashboard to put superb visibility and control of your wireless network right at your fingertips.

Wireless Support: 2×2 802.11ac Wave 2 with 2 External Antennas

Meraki MX64W Wireless Firewalls

The Meraki MX series of wireless firewalls are 100% cloud managed with SD-WAN capabilities, application-based firewalling, and auto-provision VPN, among many more advanced features. Plus, Meraki firewalls piggyback on the Cisco SNORT engine to deliver real-time signatures for up-to-the-minute threat intelligence generated from millions of security sensors around the world.

In addition to simplifying deployments in physical space, Meraki further simplifies network security with seamless firmware updates and an intuitive browser-based management.

Wireless Support: Dual-band 802.11n/ac Wave 2, 2×2 MU-MIMO with 2 spatial streams & 2 External Antenna

Cisco Meraki Enterprise Security vs Advanced Security

By Andrew Harmon

Posted On September 29, 2020

Cisco Meraki Enterprise Security vs Advanced Security

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Cisco Meraki MX firewalls are high-performance, SD-WAN ready Unified Threat Management appliances built for small business to enterprise in the cloud era. Finding the right licensing for your Cisco Meraki MX firewall, however, may bring you pause. What exactly is the difference between a Cisco Meraki Enterprise Security License & Advanced Security License?

Cisco Meraki Enterprise Security vs Cisco Meraki Advanced Security

To begin, here are a few facts about Cisco Meraki security licenses that are true of both the Meraki Enterprise Security bundle and Advanced Security Bundle:

You must choose either Advanced or Enterprise licensing for your entire organization—no splitting half-and-half
Both security bundles offer Meraki’s automatic updates to constantly upgrade policies and threat intel
Both packages include basic site-to-site and client VPN
And one more big one: you must have an active security license to use your Meraki appliance

The Enterprise Security License is a basic security solution sold as a suite attached to your firewall. The Cisco Meraki Enterprise Licenses provides all the comprehensive stateful inspection and on-box VPN capabilities that you would expect to find with any next generation firewall device. Customizable splash pages, HTML caching, and MPLS-to-VPN failover provide some unique offerings for Cisco Meraki that may be hard to find with competing brands.

Meraki Advanced Security Benefits

Meraki Advanced Security licenses include everything in the Enterprise version, plus a handful of advanced security features to provide defense in depth to your network.

Intrusion Detection & Prevention
Anti-Virus & Anti-Phishing
Content Filtering
Geography-based Firewall Rules
YouTube for Schools
Web Search Filtering

These added security benefits protect your network from a variety of never-before-seen attacks. Cisco Meraki Intrusion Detection & Prevention constantly monitors for and blocks intrusion attempts, keeping bad guys off your network.

Additional features such as Content filtering, web search filtering, and YouTube for Schools give admins granular control over content and web searches accessible on your network.

The Cisco Talos research team backs Cisco Meraki Advanced Security License services. Talos monitors security sensors around the globe day in and day out to gather threat intelligence about both known and zero day threats. That means you get continuously updated malware protection and virus signatures, improving your network’s ability to detect and stop threats.

Ready for an SD-WAN ready firewall armed with the most advanced security services backed by the Talos team? Check out our selection of Cisco Meraki MX firewalls and Live Chat with our team to save time, money, and headaches!