Upgrading a business network often involves rethinking how networks are built and managed. Since Cisco’s offerings often come up in these conversations, many wonder what Cisco Meraki does that makes it different from other options.

The answer: Cisco Meraki provides a cloud-based way to manage switches, routers, and Wi-Fi through a cloud-based dashboard.

That approach works for some, but how well does it hold up when network performance and flexibility matter?

Questions we’ll answer:

• What does Cisco Meraki do?
• How is Cisco Meraki different?
• Is Cisco Meraki the best network-as-a-service provider?
• In what ways could Meter fit your NaaS needs better?
• Is Meter a better choice for your network needs?

What does Cisco Meraki do exactly?

Cisco Meraki gives IT teams a way to manage some of their systems and equipment through a cloud dashboard. Settings, updates, and traffic logs are all handled online.

Some businesses use it as part of enterprise network transformation to reduce time spent on day-to-day setup. It also includes basic security tools and simple network charts that allow minimal customization, and depends on the cloud being available.

Meraki can make networks easier to manage, but that simplicity comes with restrictions. Costs grow with each new network device and license. Custom options are also limited.

On the other hand, Meter gives teams more control, better visibility, and local access without relying on a third-party cloud. For many businesses, that tradeoff is what makes the difference.

How is Cisco Meraki different?

Key differences in how Cisco Meraki operates:

• All devices are managed online through a web interface—local tools and direct device access are not available.
• There is no command-line interface. All settings are adjusted in the dashboard.
• Devices need an active license to work. They stop functioning if the subscription expires.
• Hardware replacement is bundled into some plans, but only through Meraki’s subscription service.
• Shared control is possible, but access is fixed to Meraki’s dashboard and permission system.
• All updates are cloud-controlled, with no local override.
• If the cloud service is down, network changes and updates can’t be made.
• Setup is fast, but customization is capped to presets.
• Advanced users may find fewer options for deep configuration.
• Hardware, licenses, and updates are rolled into one ongoing cost.
• It can be used with Cisco features like DNA Spaces or UC services.

Is Cisco Meraki the best Network as a Service (NaaS) provider?

Cisco Meraki is often included in NaaS conversations, but it’s not a full NaaS provider. This then begs the question, “What is Cisco Meraki really?”

Cisco Meraki is often described as a cloud-managed network solution. It offers cloud-managed networking tools with some NaaS features built in—like hardware subscriptions, remote access, and basic analytics. That can work for certain teams, but there are clear limits.

Everything in Meraki depends on the cloud. If there’s an outage or loss of access, IT teams can’t push updates, make changes, or even troubleshoot.

There’s no command-line interface, no local fallback, and very little control over how devices behave outside of the dashboard. That may be fine for basic networks, but not for businesses that need full visibility or fast, flexible decisions on-site.

The licensing model is also strict. Devices stop working when a license expires, which adds risk if payments are missed or delayed. Long-term, this setup can make budgets harder to manage—especially for businesses growing across many locations.

Customization is another constraint.

The platform offers presets and simple toggles, but teams with advanced needs may hit walls fast. APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are available, but they follow Meraki’s model, not the other way around. Larger environments often need more depth, more control, and more options than Meraki was built to offer.

True NaaS should give businesses full control, predictable service, and the flexibility to grow without added risk. Meraki checks a few of those boxes, but not all of them. It works best as a managed option for smaller or less complex setups, not as the best overall provider in the space.

Cisco Meraki vs. true NaaS

Meter was built to deliver full-service networking without the tradeoffs. We cover everything Meraki does—like remote access, built-in redundancy, security, and visibility, but do it without forcing teams to give up control.

Networks stay online with or without cloud access. Hardware works without a license countdown.

Plus, IT teams can go deep when needed or keep it simple when they don’t.

In other words, Meter provides a true network-as-a-service experience.

Here’s how Cisco Meraki’s features compare vs. Meter:

Is Cisco Meraki the best option?

Cisco Meraki solves real problems for IT teams, especially those managing many sites with minimal staff. The cloud dashboard makes it easier to monitor devices, roll out updates, and handle routine tasks without needing to be on-site.

For teams that don’t want to manage every piece of gear or deal with complex tools, Meraki offers a simpler way to keep things running. Built-in security, automatic updates, and bundled services help reduce daily friction.

But Meraki doesn’t solve everything. You still need to buy, track, and maintain the hardware. Licenses must stay active, or the system shuts down. That means ongoing costs and the risk of losing access if billing lapses.

When it comes to customization—what you see in the dashboard is what you get. Advanced configurations, network tuning, or local control aren't available.

The platform is designed around the cloud, so if there’s an outage, many core management functions go offline. Planning, setup, upgrades, and lifecycle costs are still the customer’s responsibility.

Meraki works for businesses that want a managed, cloud-focused solution and are okay with the tradeoffs. But it doesn’t remove the need for internal network planning or deep control. Staff who need more visibility, fewer dependencies, and less hands-on work have other options.

Why Meter could fit your needs better

Meter was built to solve many of the same problems Meraki addresses—but without adding new ones. You still get remote management, built-in security, and reliable performance. The difference is in how it’s delivered.

There’s no hardware to buy or license to track. Meter’s pricing includes everything as part of a single monthly, annual, or upfront cost, and the network is supported and managed by Meter’s automated systems and 24/7 network operations team. Hardware is monitored, replaced when needed, and upgraded automatically—without extra planning or paperwork.

Control is flexible. You can dive deep with Meter Command or let Meter handle it for you. There’s no need to rely on third-party service providers for install, updates, or changes. Local access is always available, so you’re not stuck if the cloud has an issue.

Teams looking for fewer moving parts, predictable costs, and more support built in, Meter is the better fit. We take more off your plate without taking away control.

Meter as your vertically integrated network solution

When deciding on a networking solution, you have plenty of options. Sure, when you ask, “What does Cisco Meraki do?” you’ll find it offers a solid cloud-based system. But that doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for everyone.

If you need a more reliable and secure network, Meter is the better choice. Instead of feeling tied down by constant maintenance, you get a solution that grows with you and stays reliable.

Key features of Meter Network include:

• Vertically integrated: Meter-built access points, switches, security appliances, and power distribution units work together to create a cohesive, stress-free network management experience.
• Managed experience: Meter provides proactive user support and done-with-you network management to reduce the burden on in-house networking teams.
• Hassle-free installation: Simply provide an address and floor plan, and Meter’s team will plan, install, and maintain your network.
• Software: Use Meter’s purpose-built dashboard for deep visibility and granular control of your network, or create custom dashboards with a prompt using Meter Command.
• Flexible pricing: Instead of investing upfront in equipment, Meter charges a simple monthly, annual, or upfront fee based on your square footage. When it’s time to upgrade your network, Meter provides new equipment and installation at no additional cost.
• Easy migration and expansion: As you grow, Meter will expand your network with new hardware or entirely relocate your network to a new location free of charge.

To learn more, schedule a demo with Meter.