MS Switch SFP Overview
All models of the Cisco Meraki MS access switches have either SFP / SFP+ interfaces for use with fiber, copper, or Twinax cables(10GbE only). Cisco Meraki offers branded SFP modules, and while we do not prevent third-party accessories from functioning, users should conduct their own tests to ensure proper compatibility.
For detailed information on the specifications for our SFP modules, please view our SFP and Stacking Accessories document.
Combination SFP/Ethernet Ports
The last 4 ports on the MS22, MS22P, MS220-24, and MS220-24P, numbered 21-24, are combination ports that are shared between the RJ45 ports and the SFP interfaces. Only one of these two ports may be in use at a time. For example, if an ethernet cable is connected to the RJ45 port 24 then the SFP port 24 cannot be used. If both ports are occupied, the RJ45 port will take priority. On the Switch Details page, this is indicated with a gray colored port, as in the below image. In this example, a copper Ethernet cable is connected to port 24, and the equivalent SFP port has been disabled.
Supported Modules and F.A.Q.
Cisco Meraki switches and security appliances with SFP interfaces allow both Cisco Meraki-branded and 3rd party optics. Our products do not lock out optics that have been detected as non-Meraki parts. However, please note that in most cases only Meraki-branded accessories have been certified to work with Cisco Meraki products. For any exceptions please see the section below labeled: Are other Cisco SFP/SFP+ parts certified to work with Cisco Meraki products?
How can I determine if I am using a certified Cisco Meraki part?
The part models listed in the SFP and Stacking Accessories document have been certified and tested to work with Cisco Meraki products. You can also check which part is in use via dashboard by selecting an SFP interface and looking at the detected SFP module.
The screenshot below from a MS switch's port details page is an example of a SFP-10GB-SR:
Are other Cisco SFP/SFP+ parts certified to work with Cisco Meraki products?
To date only the MS390 has been validated and certified to work with the following Cisco SFPs and twinax cables using the 8x10G and 4x10G modules:
- SFP-H10GB-CU1M
- SFP-H10GB-CU3M
- SFP-10G-SR-S
- SFP-10G-SR
If I have a technical problem and am using non-certified optics, will Cisco Meraki Support provide assistance?
Cisco Meraki will still provide technical support and help troubleshoot the issue. However, if the problem is isolated or related to a link that is using non-certified optics, you may be asked to test using a certified part.
What if I need to support an optical standard that Cisco Meraki does not currently have a part for?
There are many different standards in the industry for varying distances and fiber types. While Cisco Meraki strives to support the most common IEEE802.3 standards, if you are in need of a standard that Cisco Meraki does not carry a certified option for, you will need to use a non-Meraki part. If you have problems using the uncertified part with a Cisco Meraki product, please contact Cisco Meraki support. Though we do not officially support non-Meraki parts, many are still compatible and Support will do their best to ensure all the requirements are met for checking non-Meraki SFP connectivity and viability. For more information on compatible and supported SFP modules, check our SFP and Stacking Accessories document.
Why does my Meraki certified QSFP is not showing actual Link speed in Dashboard?
The Dashboard displays your Transceiver module's bitrate information per channel rather than Link speed.
Examples:
- A four channels 40G Transceiver would display 10.3 Gbps while providing 4 x 10 = 40 Gbps Link speed.
- A two channels 40G Transceiver, unlike the first example, would display 20.6 Gbps while providing 2 x 20 = 40 Gbps Link speed.
- A four channels 100G Transceiver would display 25.5 Gbps while providing 4 x 25 = 100 Gbps Link speed.
The picture below shows a four channels 40G Transceiver:
