The Meraki dashboard is a web browser-based interface for centrally managing cloud-connected network devices, including access points, switches, firewalls, cameras, and sensors. section 19.2.3 section 19.3
Meraki management operates through a cloud-based architecture:
- Meraki devices communicate with the cloud platform through an encrypted Internet tunnel. section 19.2.3
- Devices send management information such as RF data and client statistics to the cloud. section 19.2.3
- User traffic is not tunneled to the cloud; it travels directly to the wired LAN. section 19.2.3
- Administrators use the dashboard for configuration, monitoring, deployment, and troubleshooting. section 19.2.3 section 19.3
Architecture distinction
Cloud-based AP architecture uses a SaaS platform to manage APs. A cloud WLC deployment instead uses split-MAC architecture with the WLC deployed as a cloud virtual machine. section 19.2.3
Figure 19.11 Cisco Meraki offers cloud-based APs. Meraki APs are managed using Meraki’s cloud platform, which connects to each AP using an encrypted tunnel. User data traffic from clients is not tunneled to the cloud—only management traffic.
Trace the encrypted management tunnel between Meraki APs and the cloud, while distinguishing it from the direct wired-LAN path for user data. section 19.2.3
