Connect Hybrid Operating Mode Catalyst Switch to Dashboard
Warning: Before starting, verify that all prerequisites are fulfilled, such as supported hardware, the appropriate IOS XE version, and the necessary firewall rules. For more information, refer to Hybrid mode for Catalyst switches requirements.
IMPORTANT: This rollout happens in phases, and availability may vary. If the hybrid operating mode option is not visible when adding switches, it will be available soon. We are working to bring this feature to all eligible organizations.
Verify Meraki Tunnel Prerequisites on the Catalyst switch.
-
The Meraki Tunnel only supports the Global VRF.
-
Domain Name Lookup is required for hostname resolution to the Dashboard Registration and Meraki Tunnel services.
- ip name-server {Domain server IP address}
- ip domain lookup
-
The switch clock must reflect the correct current time in order to establish a mutual TLS tunnel with the Registration and Meraki Tunnel services by enabling NTP services.
- ntp server {ntp server IP address}
Note: Prior to adding a switch in hybrid mode, ensure it is disconnected from its current cloud connection, such as Cloud Monitoring. For detailed instructions, refer to Moving switches from Cloud Monitoring to hybrid mode.
To begin, the switch-side service in IOS XE must be enabled to initiate communication with the cloud.
While in configuration mode on the switch, enter service meraki connect.
For example:
C9300-switch#conf t
Enter configuration commands, one per line. End with CNTL/Z.
C9300-switch(config)#service meraki connect
C9300-switch(config)#end
After enabling the service for the first time, the tunnel may take few minutes to connect.
To confirm the Catalyst 9000 switch has successfully registered and the Meraki Tunnel is connected, use the show meraki connect command.
The tunnel state should be Up.
If the tunnel is not up, make sure to verify the correct firewall rules are in place. Additional details on connection attempts are available in the syslog (show logging).
The output will provide the required Cloud ID to claim the switch to a Dashboard network.
For example, the output of a successful connection may appear similar to:
The Cloud ID in the last section for Meraki Device Registration will be used to claim and register the switch in Dashboard.
Warning: When adding stacked switches, only the active member of the stack should be selected to add to network.
- To continue, log in to Dashboard and navigate to Organization > Inventory.
- Click Claim Devices.
- Click Claim Individual Devices.
Note: You can enter one or more Cloud IDs from your Catalyst switches.
- After claiming the devices, on the Inventory page, select the checkbox next to the switches you would like to enable in hybrid mode.
- In the Add devices to network window, choose the Dashboard Network for your switch and click Next.
- Select Hybrid operating mode and enter level-15 privilege credentials for the switch(es).
Note: Credentials are used to connect to your switch and update the configuration for use with hybrid operating mode.
The configuration lines will be automatically applied to your switch are available here: Configuration for hybrid operating mode switches.
After confirming the details and completing the process, the configuration will be automatically applied to your switch.
You can view your switch(es) in the Dashboard by navigating to Switching > Switches. If you have added your switches, an alert will appear for a few minutes while the setup finalizes. Allow up to 15 minutes for the process to complete and for the data to update in the Dashboard.