MR Access Point FAQ

What features do Meraki access points support?

All Meraki MR access points support certain cloud-based features, like stateless firewalling, Layer 3 and Layer 7 application traffic shaping, wireless intrusion detection and prevention, Location Analytics, support for up to 15 unique SSIDs, and automatic RF channel optimization. Depending on supported hardware, a Meraki AP may also support additional features like Bluetooth beaconing and scanning, MU-MIMO, self-healing mesh, and multigigabit.

Check out our wireless models page for details on current models, or check our library archives for older ones.

What does a Meraki cloud management license cover?

We try to make purchase simple: all you have to do is buy the access points you need and then buy cloud management licenses for them. Your license includes:

1. All enterprise technical support

2. All new feature and firmware updates (that will get seamlessly pushed from the cloud, usually every quarter)

3. Access to all cloud-based wireless features that your APs’ hardware supports

In short: this is an all-you-can-eat license; you don’t pay extra for certain features — like Location Analytics or WIDS/WIPS.

Where can I find data sheets and technical specifications for these access points?

For the most up-to-date information, check out any access point’s product page. You can also view data sheets in our online library.

Do Meraki APs support 802.11ac Wave 2?

Yes, several of our AP models support 802.11ac Wave 2 and Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO) to more efficiently serve multiple clients simultaneously. We have indoor and outdoor models that support this technical specification.

What antennas can I use with my Meraki MR APs?

Indoor Meraki APs come with integrated omni antennas. Our outdoor APs support omni, sector, and patch antennas — check out any AP’s product page for the most up-to-date information on supported antennas. Our highest-performance, high-density AP, the MR86, also supports Cisco’s stadium antenna if coverage for stadium, arena, or large venue events is required.

What’s the coverage area or range of a Meraki AP?

Coverage and range are highly dependent on both the environment (RF interference, weather, etc.)  in which they’re deployed as well as other factors — such as external antennas, if any — being used. This makes definitive ranges hard to predict. However, barring radio interference and physical obstructions, Meraki access points equipped with omnidirectional antennas typically reach a range of 100 meters. Directional antennas would greatly extend this range.

Do I need to purchase WLAN controllers or centralized AP management to oversee multiple APs?

No, there is no need to purchase any controllers or centralized management tools — our cloud controls our Meraki APs across all your sites and networks. This allows you to rapidly, massively scale your wireless network painlessly.