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In today’s highly connected world, a reliable internet connection is the backbone of business operations. Many organizations, especially those with multiple locations or remote offices, face the challenge of maintaining consistent connectivity. Interruptions in the primary internet connection can lead to significant disruptions, affecting productivity and customer satisfaction. To combat this, Cisco Meraki has introduced the MG Series Cellular Gateways, a powerful solution that ensures businesses remain connected to the internet even when their primary uplink fails.

The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are designed to act as a failover solution, providing high availability for internet connectivity via a wireless WAN using cellular networks. When the primary internet connection goes down, the Meraki MG series automatically switches to cellular connectivity, ensuring that critical operations continue without interruption. This automatic failover mechanism is vital for organizations that rely on constant internet connectivity to support their day-to-day activities.

Meraki’s MG Series is part of its cloud-managed networking portfolio, meaning that the devices are fully managed through the Meraki Dashboard. The cloud-based platform makes it easy for network administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the devices remotely, eliminating the need for on-site management and significantly reducing operational complexity. This level of simplicity is one of the defining features of the Meraki solution, as it allows businesses to maintain robust network performance with minimal IT overhead.

The MG Series Cellular Gateways are available in several models to cater to different business needs. These models offer varying levels of performance, providing flexibility depending on the size of the business, the scale of the network, and the specific connectivity requirements. Whether a small business needs a backup connection for a single location or a large enterprise needs a failover solution for multiple offices, the Meraki MG Series provides a reliable option that can scale according to demand.

In addition to providing backup internet connectivity, the Meraki MG Series gateways come with several advanced features to enhance network reliability and security. The devices support features like Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize critical applications, VPN passthrough for secure connections, and dynamic routing for optimal path selection in the event of an internet failover.

These gateways are designed to be easy to install and manage. With Meraki’s cloud management platform, businesses can quickly deploy the devices without the need for specialized technical knowledge. The straightforward setup and configuration process, along with the ability to monitor and manage the gateways remotely, make them an ideal solution for organizations looking for an effective backup internet uplink solution without the complexity of traditional networking devices.

The introduction of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways represents a significant step forward in ensuring business continuity, especially in environments where internet connectivity is critical. With automatic failover, cellular backup, and centralized cloud management, these gateways help businesses stay connected, regardless of internet outages or disruptions.

Pre-Installation and Initial Setup of Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways

Before beginning the installation and configuration of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways, there are several essential pre-installation steps that ensure everything is in place for a smooth deployment. These steps include claiming the device in the Meraki Dashboard, assigning it to a network, and ensuring the device has the correct firmware and an active SIM card installed. These initial steps will allow the gateway to function as a reliable backup internet uplink, and administrators will be able to manage and monitor the device remotely.

Claiming the Device in the Meraki Dashboard

The first step in setting up the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway is to claim the device in the Meraki Dashboard. Claiming the device links the physical device to your Meraki account, allowing it to be configured and monitored through the cloud management platform.

To claim the device, you will need either the Meraki Sales Order number or the serial number of the MG device. These details can typically be found on a label located on the back or bottom of the device. Once you have the serial number or Sales Order number, log in to the Meraki Dashboard and navigate to the Organization > Inventory section. Here, you can add the device to your inventory by entering the serial number or Sales Order number.

Once the device is claimed, you can assign it to a network. If you already have an existing network configured in your Meraki Dashboard, you can assign the MG Series device to this network. If this is a new installation and there is no existing network, you can create a new network in the Meraki Dashboard and assign the device to it. This ensures that the device will be managed within the correct network context.

Firmware Update

After claiming and assigning the device, the next task is to check and update the firmware version on the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway. Firmware updates are essential to ensure that the gateway is running the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches. Meraki frequently releases firmware updates to improve functionality and performance.

To perform a firmware update, follow these steps:

1. Insert the Active SIM Card: Ensure that an active SIM card is inserted into the SIM card slot of the MG device. The SIM card is necessary for the device to connect to the cellular network and perform the firmware upgrade.

2. Power Up the MG Device: Connect the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway to a power source and turn it on. The device will start the process of connecting to the Meraki cloud.

3. Wait for Cloud Connection: Initially, the power LED will glow orange while the device is trying to connect to the cloud. Once it successfully connects, the LED will change to another color (typically white or green), indicating that the gateway is online and ready for configuration.

4. Firmware Upgrade Process: Once the device connects to the cloud, it will check for available firmware upgrades. If an upgrade is necessary, the power LED will blink white during the process. The upgrade may take several minutes, depending on the speed of the internet connection and the size of the update. After the firmware update is complete, the LED will turn solid white, signifying that the device is running the latest firmware.

Allowing the device to complete the firmware upgrade before proceeding with further configuration is essential. Interrupting the upgrade process can lead to an incomplete or failed update, which may negatively impact the device’s functionality.

Accessing the Device’s Dashboard

After the firmware update is complete and the device is online, you can begin configuring the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway using the Meraki Dashboard. The dashboard is where you can manage the device, monitor its performance, and configure various settings.

To access the device, log in to the Meraki Dashboard through your web browser. Once the device is added to the network, it will appear in the Network > Meraki MG section of the dashboard, where you can view its status and configuration settings. From here, you can start configuring the gateway to meet your network’s needs, such as setting up cellular connectivity, backup preferences, and other necessary network parameters.

SIM Card and Carrier Configuration

An essential aspect of the initial setup is ensuring that the SIM card inserted into the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway is active and properly configured. The SIM card allows the device to connect to the cellular network and function as a backup uplink for internet connectivity.

The Meraki MG Series typically supports multiple SIM cards, and some models feature dual-SIM support. By default, the device will use the primary SIM card slot, but it is important to ensure that the SIM card is associated with a compatible data plan from the cellular carrier and is correctly provisioned.

Some carriers may require specific APN (Access Point Name) configurations or other settings to enable internet access. If needed, you can input these settings via the Meraki Dashboard under the Configuration tab in the Cellular Gateways menu. The APN settings should be provided by the cellular carrier, and entering these settings correctly will help the device establish a stable connection with the cellular network.

Once the device is connected to the cellular network, you can proceed with other configuration tasks, such as setting up backup policies, configuring failover settings, and monitoring signal quality.

The pre-installation steps and initial setup of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are designed to be simple and straightforward. By claiming the device in the Meraki Dashboard, updating the firmware, and ensuring proper SIM card and carrier configuration, administrators can ensure that the gateway is fully prepared for use as a backup internet uplink.

With the device connected to the Meraki cloud and properly configured, administrators can take full advantage of Meraki’s cloud management features to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the gateway. The next step in the process involves configuring basic connectivity and network parameters, which we will cover in the following sections. The ease of setup, combined with the flexibility and reliability of cellular backup, ensures that businesses can quickly deploy a robust failover internet solution.

Configuration and Setup of Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways

Once the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway is claimed in the Meraki Dashboard, updated with the latest firmware, and the necessary SIM card is inserted, it is time to begin configuring the device for use. This configuration allows the gateway to function as a backup internet uplink, providing high availability when the primary internet uplink fails. The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway offers a straightforward and user-friendly setup process, which is essential for businesses looking to quickly deploy a failover solution.

The configuration process involves connecting a client device, such as a laptop or workstation, to the gateway, accessing the device’s web graphical user interface (GUI), and configuring various settings like network connectivity, cellular parameters, and backup failover preferences.

Connecting the Client Device to the Meraki MG Gateway

The first step in the configuration process is to connect a client device, such as a laptop or workstation, to the LAN port of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway. This enables the MG gateway to provide DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) services and automatically assign an IP address to the client machine. The device is now connected to the network through the gateway, allowing administrators to configure the gateway’s settings via the web GUI.

1. LAN Port Connection: Plug an Ethernet cable from the client device into the LAN port on the MG Series device. The MG will assign an IP address to the connected device automatically, making it easy to get started without the need for manual IP configuration.

2. Confirm DHCP Assignment: Once the device is connected to the LAN port, ensure that it receives an IP address and gateway assignment from the MG gateway. This will allow the client machine to communicate with the gateway and access the device’s web interface for further configuration.

Accessing the Web GUI of the Meraki MG Cellular Gateway

After the client device is connected, the next step is to access the web GUI of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway. The web GUI is where you will configure the device’s various settings, including cellular parameters, failover settings, and network-specific configurations.

1. Opening a Browser: On the client device, open a web browser of your choice (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari). In the browser’s address bar, enter the URL mg.meraki.com or the default gateway IP address assigned to the MG Series device. This URL leads to the device’s local web interface, which allows you to manage and configure the device.

2. Logging Into the Web GUI: The web interface requires a login to access the configuration settings. The default credentials for logging into the device are based on the device’s serial number. Enter the device’s serial number (all uppercase with dashes) as the username, and leave the password field blank. This will grant you access to the device’s settings.

Configuring Cellular Connectivity and Network Parameters

Once logged into the web GUI, administrators can begin configuring various parameters, including cellular settings, APN (Access Point Name), and network configurations. These settings are essential to ensure that the MG Series Cellular Gateway can successfully connect to the cellular network and serve as a reliable backup internet uplink.

1. Cellular Network Settings: Under the Configuration tab in the web GUI, administrators can input carrier-specific settings, such as the APN, username, and password, if required by the cellular carrier. The APN is critical for connecting to the cellular network, and some carriers may require specific values for proper connectivity.

2. Selecting the Cellular Carrier: The MG Series gateway may support multiple cellular carriers, and some models include dual-SIM support for additional redundancy. Select the carrier and ensure that the correct APN and authentication credentials are set to ensure a stable connection. If the device requires specific settings for a particular carrier, be sure to consult the carrier’s documentation to verify the correct configuration.

3. Testing Connectivity: After configuring the cellular settings, go to the Connection tab in the web GUI to check the connection status. If everything is configured correctly, the gateway should establish a successful connection to the cellular network. The status will display the strength of the cellular signal and confirm whether the device is connected.

Configuring Backup and Failover Settings

A key feature of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway is its ability to provide automatic backup internet connectivity in the event of a primary uplink failure. To ensure that the device works as intended, it is necessary to configure the backup and failover settings appropriately. These settings allow the gateway to switch to cellular connectivity automatically when the primary internet connection goes down.

1. Backup Settings: In the Failover section of the configuration settings, administrators can set up the conditions under which the MG Series gateway will switch to cellular connectivity. For example, the device can be set to automatically failover to the cellular connection if the primary uplink becomes unavailable, ensuring continuous internet access for the network.

2. Failback Settings: Similarly, once the primary internet connection is restored, the device can automatically failback to the primary uplink. You can configure the failback delay to determine how long the gateway will wait before switching back to the primary internet connection. This ensures that the gateway doesn’t prematurely switch back before the primary connection is stable.

3. Network Preferences: In addition to configuring failover and failback, administrators can also set the priority of the cellular network as the backup connection. This is important if the business has multiple internet connections and needs to ensure that the cellular connection is only used when necessary. You can prioritize the primary connection and configure the MG Series device to use cellular connectivity only during network failures.

Monitoring and Status Verification

After configuring the cellular network and failover settings, administrators should verify that the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway is functioning correctly. The Meraki Dashboard allows for real-time monitoring and status checks, providing a comprehensive overview of the gateway’s performance.

1. Connection Status: Under the Connection tab in the web GUI, administrators can monitor the connection status and signal strength. The status will show whether the device is connected to the cellular network, and it will provide key metrics like RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality), which indicate the strength and quality of the cellular connection.

2. Meraki Dashboard Monitoring: Through the Meraki Dashboard, administrators can view the overall health of the MG Series device, including its online/offline status, signal strength, and cellular usage. The dashboard allows for remote monitoring of the device, enabling administrators to quickly detect and resolve any issues.

3. Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues: If there are any issues with connectivity or performance, administrators can use the troubleshooting tools available in the Meraki Dashboard. These tools provide insights into signal quality, SIM card status, and other factors that may be affecting the gateway’s ability to connect to the cellular network.

The configuration and setup of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. With a few simple steps, administrators can connect the device, configure the cellular network, set up backup and failover settings, and begin using the gateway as a reliable backup internet solution. The Meraki Dashboard provides a powerful platform for monitoring the device’s performance and troubleshooting any issues remotely.

The ease of use and powerful features of the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways make them an ideal solution for businesses seeking high availability and continuity in their network connectivity. With automatic failover and seamless integration with Meraki’s cloud management tools, businesses can ensure that they remain connected even in the event of an internet outage. The next step in the process involves troubleshooting any potential issues with connectivity and ensuring the gateway is operating optimally.

Troubleshooting Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways

Although the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are designed for ease of use and simplicity in setup, there may still be occasions where issues arise during installation or operation. Troubleshooting is an important step to ensure that the devices are functioning optimally and providing reliable backup internet connectivity. Meraki offers a set of troubleshooting steps to help resolve common issues such as connectivity problems, SIM card errors, and signal quality issues.

This section will cover some common troubleshooting steps for the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways, addressing key issues like connectivity failure, signal strength problems, and configuration errors.

Verifying SIM Card and Data Plan Activation

One of the most common issues with cellular gateways is related to the SIM card and its data plan. If the SIM card is not active, the device will not be able to connect to the cellular network, and the failover feature will not function as expected. It is essential to verify that the SIM card is properly inserted and that the data plan is active and supports the required data speeds for backup connectivity.

1. Check SIM Card Activation: Ensure that the SIM card inserted into the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway is activated and associated with a valid data plan. Without an active data plan, the device will not be able to access the cellular network.

2. Carrier Support: Some cellular carriers may require specific configurations for their network, such as special APN settings or network authentication credentials. If your cellular provider requires custom settings, ensure that these are correctly entered in the Configuration tab in the web GUI.

3. Verify SIM Slot Usage: The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway may support dual-SIM functionality, depending on the model. Make sure that the SIM card is inserted in the correct slot, and verify that the gateway is using the intended SIM card. If you have two SIM cards inserted, ensure that the primary SIM card is set as the primary uplink in the dashboard.

Checking Signal Strength and Quality

If the gateway is able to connect to the cellular network but is experiencing slow speeds or frequent disconnects, the issue may be related to weak cellular signal strength or poor network quality. The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway provides detailed signal quality metrics that can help identify problems with signal strength.

1. RSRP and RSRQ Values: The gateway’s Connection tab in the web GUI provides key metrics that can help determine the strength and quality of the cellular connection. RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) are the most important indicators of signal quality. A high RSRP value indicates a stronger signal, while a higher RSRQ value indicates better signal quality. If these values are low, it can lead to poor connectivity and slower speeds.

2. Relocate the Gateway: If the RSRP and RSRQ values are weak, try moving the gateway to a location with better cellular reception. For example, placing the device near a window or in an area with fewer obstructions may improve signal strength. Experimenting with different positions can sometimes result in a significant improvement in connectivity.

3. Test Using External Antennas: Some Meraki MG models allow for the attachment of external antennas to improve signal strength. If your model supports this feature, consider adding external antennas to boost the cellular signal, especially in areas where signal strength is low.

4. Monitor Network Congestion: Cellular networks can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours. If your gateway is located in a densely populated area or if there are multiple devices using the same cellular network, performance may be degraded. Monitoring the network for peak usage times may help in identifying when performance is impacted.

Troubleshooting APN and Carrier-Specific Settings

Some carriers may require specific APN (Access Point Name) configurations to allow the gateway to connect to the network. If the gateway is unable to connect to the cellular network or is experiencing slow speeds, it is essential to verify that the correct APN settings are configured.

1. Verify APN Settings: Check the APN settings configured on the MG Series Cellular Gateway. You can find the APN configuration under the Configuration tab in the web GUI. If the cellular carrier requires custom APN settings, such as a specific APN name, username, or password, ensure that these values are correctly entered.

2. Carrier Requirements: Some carriers also require additional settings, such as a specific username and password for authentication, or the use of a particular type of network (e.g., 4G LTE, 5G). Verify the settings with your cellular provider and make sure they match the required parameters.

3. Check Carrier Compatibility: Not all cellular carriers are compatible with every device, so it’s important to ensure that the carrier being used is supported by the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway. Check the device’s documentation to confirm carrier compatibility, and consult your cellular provider for any known limitations or settings.

Resetting the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway

If the device is still not functioning properly after performing the above steps, a soft or factory reset may help resolve persistent issues. Resetting the device restores it to a default state, which can clear out any configuration errors or settings that may be causing the issue.

1. Soft Reset: A soft reset can be performed by pressing the reset button on the gateway for about 1 second. This will delete any downloaded configuration and reboot the device. A soft reset is typically used to resolve minor connectivity issues or settings-related problems.

2. Factory Reset: If the soft reset does not resolve the issue, a factory reset may be necessary. To perform a factory reset, press and hold the reset button for at least 10 seconds. This will restore the device to its original factory settings, erasing all custom configurations. After a factory reset, you will need to reconfigure the device from scratch.

3. Reconfigure the Device: After performing a reset, return to the Meraki Dashboard and follow the configuration steps again, ensuring that all the necessary settings, such as APN, cellular preferences, and failover settings, are correctly applied.

Checking Cables and Connections

Sometimes, connectivity issues with the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateway can be traced back to faulty cables or poor connections. These issues are often easy to resolve by ensuring that all physical connections are secure and functioning properly.

1. Test Cables: Ensure that the Ethernet cable used to connect the MG Series device to the local network is in good condition. Try swapping out the cable with a known working one to rule out any potential issues.

2. Try a Different Port: If the MG Series gateway is connected to a switch or router, try plugging the device into a different port to check for any potential port issues. A faulty switch port or network issue could cause the device to fail to connect.

The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are designed to be simple to install and configure, but as with any network device, issues can occasionally arise. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, administrators can quickly identify and resolve common connectivity and configuration issues. Whether the issue is related to the SIM card, signal quality, APN settings, or network cables, Meraki provides the tools and resources to help businesses maintain a reliable backup internet solution.

By leveraging Meraki’s cloud management platform, administrators can monitor the status of the device remotely and receive real-time updates on performance. Regularly checking the device’s status and ensuring that it is correctly configured will help maintain the availability of the backup uplink and keep the business connected, even during internet disruptions.

Final Thoughts

The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are an invaluable tool for businesses seeking reliable, uninterrupted internet connectivity, especially in scenarios where their primary internet uplink may experience downtime. These devices offer seamless automatic failover from the primary connection to a cellular backup, ensuring business continuity without requiring manual intervention.

Meraki has designed the MG Series Cellular Gateways with simplicity and ease of use in mind, making them accessible to organizations without specialized technical expertise. With minimal setup, configuration, and management requirements, the MG Series Cellular Gateways can be quickly deployed, even in environments with limited IT resources. Meraki’s cloud-based management through the Meraki Dashboard allows for centralized monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting, all from a single platform. This reduces operational complexity and provides businesses with a reliable and scalable solution for network resilience.

The configuration process is streamlined, allowing businesses to connect and manage the gateways quickly and efficiently. Whether it is for a single site or a distributed network, the MG Series supports dual-SIM functionality and offers flexibility in the types of connections businesses need for their failover solutions. Furthermore, the real-time monitoring and diagnostics capabilities provided by the Meraki Dashboard ensure that administrators can maintain visibility into the performance of their backup connectivity, troubleshoot issues remotely, and take corrective actions without needing to be on-site.

While the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways are designed for simplicity, troubleshooting is an essential part of maintaining a reliable backup solution. Ensuring that SIM cards are active, verifying cellular signal strength, and correctly configuring APN settings are crucial steps to maintaining optimal functionality. However, with Meraki’s extensive troubleshooting tools, administrators can quickly identify and resolve issues that might arise, minimizing any downtime or disruption in service.

By following the guidelines provided for setup, configuration, and troubleshooting, businesses can confidently rely on the Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways as an effective and resilient backup solution. With robust failover capabilities, flexible configuration options, and easy integration into the broader Meraki ecosystem, these gateways offer businesses a reliable way to ensure high availability of internet connectivity and maintain operational continuity.

The Meraki MG Series Cellular Gateways not only ensure that businesses remain connected but also provide peace of mind, knowing that in the event of a disruption to the primary internet connection, their backup solution is already in place and ready to take over.