Overview

In cases of primary uplink failure, wireless WAN connectivity options, like cellular networks, can serve as a backup for ensuring connectivity.

MG52 cellular gateway is a 5G StandAlone (SA)/ Non-StandAlone (NSA) device which enables the delivery of high-speed internet access with low latency and increased capacity.  The use of standalone 5G allows for advanced features like network slicing, which allows the creation of virtualized, dedicated slices of the network tailored for specific applications or services.

MG52/E is compatible with both Meraki and non-Meraki security appliances, routing, or switching devices by leveraging Ethernet and IP-based protocols. Its additional 802.3AT compatibility allows it to be positioned anywhere by using power over Ethernet (PoE), similar to any access point. This flexibility gives users the choice of an ideal physical placement to optimize signal quality.

MG Series and Meraki Cloud Management

All Meraki devices are managed via the Meraki cloud. The MG series are self-configuring and managed over the web, and can be deployed at remote locations without any assistance from end-users.

Meraki Cloud services monitor all devices 24×7 and deliver real-time alerts if any devices encounter a problem. Remote diagnostics tools enable real-time troubleshooting through any web browser. New features, enhancements and critical security patches are delivered over the web, removing the need to manually download software updates.

Use Cases

Note that the following use cases refer to using a Meraki MX appliance with the MG52/E as a WAN uplink. However, the use cases can also apply to non-Meraki devices.

• Antenna placement where cellular coverage is best 

  • Signal strength is key for cellular performance. The MG52/E makes cellular a viable option in situations where high bandwidth or throughput is needed or locations where the MX is not necessarily the best location for a strong cellular signal. The separation of cellular antenna and MX expands cellular options for all networks, particularly for mid-range MXs deployed in a data center or medium/large branch location. The 4 x 4 DL MIMO is capable of supporting deployments that demand higher throughput capacity.

• Primary WAN

  • In areas where wired internet services are not available or wired connectivity takes too long or is expensive, the MG52/E provides a simple, viable option for wireless WAN connectivity.

• Secondary WAN for Failover

  • An MX’s primary or secondary WAN interface connected to an MG52/E may use the cellular network for both primary and secondary uplinks

• Primary/Secondary WAN for SD-WAN

  • An MX with an MG52/E as a primary and/or secondary WAN uplink may use the cellular network to establish VPNs for SD-WAN.

• High Availability Uplink

  • The MG52/E can be used as either a primary or secondary internet uplink for MX HA topologies. Its two LAN ports allow the MXs to share access to the same cellular network.

Technical Breakdown