Cisco Meraki vs. Fortinet: Which Offers the Best Subscription Pricing?

Understanding Cisco Meraki—The Cloud-First Network Platform

What is Cisco Meraki?

Cisco Meraki, a part of Cisco Systems since 2012, is a pioneer in cloud-managed IT solutions. The company started its journey in 2006 with the mission to simplify networking through a cloud-first approach, making it easier for IT teams to manage their network infrastructure. Meraki revolutionized the traditional approach to IT management, which often involved complex on-site configurations and manual interventions. The introduction of the cloud-managed Meraki Dashboard enabled businesses to shift their operations to the cloud and gain centralized control over all their networking devices.

The Meraki Dashboard is the heart of the Cisco Meraki solution, allowing IT administrators to remotely monitor and manage thousands of devices, including routers, switches, access points, cameras, and even mobile devices. The system is browser-based, which means that administrators can access the dashboard from anywhere in the world, making it a powerful tool for businesses with distributed locations.

Meraki is designed with simplicity in mind, which is why it is popular among small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), educational institutions, retail chains, and healthcare providers. The cloud-first approach reduces the need for specialized IT personnel while also eliminating the need for complex command-line configurations that are common in traditional networking setups. With Meraki, the focus is on providing a user-friendly interface, scalability, and ease of use, all while ensuring high security and reliability.

Key Service Categories in Cisco Meraki

Cisco Meraki’s offerings are categorized into three main areas: Access, WAN (Wide Area Network), and IoT (Internet of Things).

1. Access Solutions: Meraki provides cloud-managed switches, wireless LAN (Wi-Fi), and security cameras. These solutions offer a reliable and scalable access infrastructure with seamless integration to Meraki’s cloud management platform. This category also includes solutions for network segmentation, access control, and guest networks.

2. WAN Solutions: The Meraki MX Series appliances are central to the WAN offerings. These devices serve as next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) and integrate with SD-WAN features, making them suitable for businesses with distributed offices. Meraki MX Series devices offer automatic VPN provisioning, application-aware routing, and intelligent path control to optimize network performance and reliability.

3. IoT Solutions: Meraki has also ventured into the Internet of Things (IoT) domain. The company provides environmental sensors, smart surveillance systems, and other telemetry tools. These solutions help businesses monitor physical spaces such as offices, warehouses, and retail locations. The integration of IoT into Meraki’s cloud management platform enhances its scalability and security, making it a powerful tool for modern businesses.

The Cloud-First Advantage

The cloud-first approach of Meraki brings several benefits that make it a go-to solution for businesses seeking ease of management and scalability. Here’s a deeper look at the advantages:

1. Rapid Deployment: With Meraki’s cloud-managed architecture, devices can be configured even before they are physically deployed. When a device is plugged in at its designated location, it automatically connects to the Meraki cloud and downloads the pre-configured settings. This eliminates the need for time-consuming, on-site configurations.

2. Zero-Touch Provisioning: This feature enables devices to be set up remotely, reducing the need for IT staff to visit each site for manual configuration. For organizations with multiple locations, this can result in significant cost savings and operational efficiency.

3. Remote Monitoring and Troubleshooting: IT administrators can access real-time data about device performance, status, and health from anywhere in the world. This real-time monitoring feature helps in the early detection of issues and ensures proactive troubleshooting, preventing downtime.

4. Automatic Firmware Updates: Meraki devices receive firmware updates automatically through the cloud, ensuring that devices are always running the latest version of software. This removes the administrative burden of manually managing device updates and ensures security patches are applied promptly.

5. Scalability: Whether a company has one office or hundreds of remote branches, Meraki’s cloud-based platform scales easily to meet the needs of growing organizations. The central management dashboard allows IT teams to manage all devices from a single interface, irrespective of their physical locations.

Ideal Use Cases for Cisco Meraki

Cisco Meraki is ideal for a wide range of industries and business sizes. Its simplicity, cloud-based management, and scalability make it especially well-suited for:

1. Educational Institutions: Schools and universities can benefit from Meraki’s ability to provide secure wireless access for students and staff while maintaining centralized control over network security.

2. Retail Chains: Retail businesses with multiple locations can use Meraki to manage network infrastructure across all branches, including Wi-Fi access points, security cameras, and in-store devices.

3. Healthcare Providers: Hospitals and healthcare facilities need secure and reliable networks to support electronic health records (EHR) systems, patient management systems, and medical devices. Meraki’s cloud-based solutions provide seamless connectivity and robust security.

4. Hybrid Work Environments: With the growing trend of remote work, businesses need a solution that can support secure connectivity for employees working from home or in different office locations. Meraki’s SD-WAN capabilities, coupled with its cloud-first approach, make it an ideal choice for organizations with hybrid or remote workforces.

For IT professionals, Cisco Meraki also provides valuable experience in managing SD-WAN, cloud networking, and security policies. Those pursuing Cisco Certifications, such as CCNA, CCNP, or DevNet Associate, can gain real-world exposure to Meraki’s features, which align with core exam objectives.

Key Features of Cisco Meraki

1. Cloud-Managed Dashboard: The central control point for managing all Meraki devices, providing visibility and control without the need for on-site controllers.

2. SD-WAN Capabilities: Meraki’s MX Series routers integrate SD-WAN features to optimize application performance and prioritize critical traffic.

3. Scalable Security: Built-in security features such as intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), firewall capabilities, and content filtering.

4. Mobile Device Management: Meraki’s Systems Manager helps businesses manage mobile devices, ensuring security and compliance for Bring Your Device (BYOD) policies.

5. IoT Integration: Meraki supports a wide range of IoT devices, allowing businesses to monitor physical spaces and secure environments using sensors, cameras, and other devices.

Fortinet—A Security-First Approach to Networking

What is Fortinet?

Fortinet is a cybersecurity and networking solution provider that has become a global leader in delivering integrated and high-performance security solutions. Founded in 2000, Fortinet has built its reputation on providing advanced threat protection and ensuring secure, efficient network infrastructures for businesses of all sizes. Fortinet’s products and services are tailored to address the complex security needs of modern enterprises, particularly those that require granular control over their network behavior, advanced threat detection, and high scalability.

Fortinet’s flagship product is the FortiGate Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW), which goes beyond traditional firewalls by integrating multiple advanced security features. These include deep packet inspection, SSL inspection, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), application-aware traffic control, and secure SD-WAN integration. This makes Fortinet a popular choice for businesses in industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and telecommunications.

Unlike Cisco Meraki, which focuses on simplicity and cloud management, Fortinet’s approach is rooted in depth and customization. The company’s solutions cater to enterprises that require a high level of control over their network security, as well as advanced threat intelligence capabilities.

Fortinet’s Security Fabric

One of Fortinet’s key differentiators is its Security Fabric, a unified security architecture that integrates Fortinet products across the entire IT infrastructure. This interconnected ecosystem ensures end-to-end visibility and security, providing businesses with comprehensive protection against both internal and external threats.

The Fortinet Security Fabric encompasses various components that work together to offer holistic protection. These include:

1. FortiGate NGFW: Fortinet’s flagship firewall product, providing advanced security features such as SSL inspection, IPS, antivirus, and more.

2. FortiAnalyzer: A centralized analytics tool that provides insights into network traffic and security incidents, helping IT teams respond proactively to threats.

3. FortiManager: A management platform for centralized configuration and orchestration of Fortinet devices across large, distributed networks.

4. FortiCASB (Cloud Access Security Broker): Protects cloud-based applications by identifying risky behavior, preventing data leakage, and ensuring compliance.

5. FortiClient: An endpoint protection tool that integrates with FortiGate to ensure that devices connected to the network remain secure.

The Security Fabric approach ensures that all Fortinet products communicate with each other in real-time, allowing organizations to automate threat responses, enforce policies, and gain centralized control over their entire IT environment. This level of integration makes Fortinet a powerful solution for businesses looking to implement a Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) or comply with strict regulatory requirements such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or GDPR.

Granular Security Control and Customization

Fortinet’s solutions are built for organizations that demand a high level of security control. Administrators can configure security policies in great detail, allowing for granular control over network access, application usage, and data flow. Fortinet’s firewalls can enforce policies based on a variety of factors, such as

1. User Identity: Fortinet can enforce policies based on who is accessing the network, whether it’s an employee, a guest, or an external user.

2. Application Control: Fortinet’s firewalls can inspect traffic for specific applications, allowing administrators to prioritize or block certain types of traffic.

3. Deep Packet Inspection: Fortinet’s devices analyze the content of network traffic to detect threats such as malware, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs).

This level of customization makes Fortinet an attractive option for businesses with complex network security requirements or those operating in high-risk environments. Its ability to inspect and control traffic at a granular level ensures that organizations can protect their data and infrastructure from a wide range of evolving threats.

Fortinet’s Advanced Threat Protection

Fortinet’s approach to security emphasizes multi-layered protection across various attack vectors. Its next-generation firewall (NGFW) integrates several security functions, including

1. Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Fortinet’s NGFWs detect and block suspicious activities that could indicate a potential attack.

2. Advanced Malware Protection: FortiGate devices use advanced techniques such as sandboxing to identify and neutralize malware before it can cause harm.

3. Secure SD-WAN: Fortinet’s SD-WAN solution optimizes application performance while providing full threat inspection, ensuring that traffic is both efficient and secure.

4. Threat Intelligence: Fortinet’s devices are powered by FortiGuard, an integrated threat intelligence service that provides real-time updates on emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

This comprehensive approach to threat protection ensures that Fortinet can safeguard organizations from a wide variety of cyberattacks, including those targeting endpoints, cloud applications, and internal networks. Its integrated threat intelligence services allow Fortinet products to adapt to new threats as they emerge, ensuring that businesses are always equipped with the latest defenses.

Cost-Effective Security Bundles

Fortinet offers flexible pricing options that provide value for organizations of all sizes. The company’s bundles, such as the Enterprise Protection Bundle, offer a comprehensive suite of security tools at a reduced overall price. These bundles often include:

1. FortiGuard Security Services: Access to Fortinet’s global threat intelligence feeds, ensuring that all devices are equipped with up-to-date information on emerging threats.

2. FortiCare Support Plans: Includes various levels of technical support, including 24/7 support for enterprise customers, hardware replacement services, and software updates.

3. SD-WAN Capabilities: Secure SD-WAN features that allow for efficient routing of traffic across multiple sites while ensuring full inspection and security.

4. Sandboxing and Malware Analysis: Tools to detect and prevent advanced threats, such as zero-day attacks and sophisticated malware.

By offering these bundled services, Fortinet allows businesses to maximize their return on investment while ensuring they have access to the full range of security tools needed to protect their network.

Fortinet’s Endpoint Protection

Another key feature of Fortinet’s ecosystem is its endpoint protection solutions. FortiClient and FortiEDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) are essential for providing real-time protection for endpoints, ensuring that all devices connected to the network are secure.

FortiClient integrates directly with FortiGate firewalls, allowing for seamless communication between endpoint devices and the network. This enables administrators to implement security policies at the device level, ensuring that only secure endpoints are allowed to access the network.

FortiEDR offers advanced capabilities for detecting, responding to, and mitigating endpoint threats. It provides real-time monitoring and analysis of endpoint activities, identifying suspicious behavior and preventing potential breaches before they can cause damage. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on mobile devices, remote workers, or other distributed networks.

Fortinet for IT Professionals and Certification Pathways

Fortinet provides its certification program called NSE (Network Security Expert), which offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of network security. from basic firewall configuration to advanced threat management and incident response.

For IT professionals who are pursuing Cisco certifications, such as CCNP Security or CCIE Security, studying Fortinet’s solutions can offer valuable insights into different approaches to network defense. The ability to compare and contrast Cisco and Fortinet solutions can deepen one’s understanding of security frameworks, policy enforcement, and threat detection mechanisms. This knowledge is invaluable when preparing for Cisco exams or gaining expertise in cybersecurity.

Additionally, Fortinet’s deep security features provide hands-on experience with technologies that are critical in modern IT environments. Understanding Fortinet’s approach to firewall rule sets, intrusion detection, and network segmentation is a key component of both certification exams and real-world network defense.

Real-World Use Case Scenarios

1. Securing Financial Services: A global financial services provider deployed Fortinet solutions to protect its infrastructure across multiple data centers. By integrating FortiGate NGFWs, FortiAnalyzer for centralized analytics, and FortiCASB for cloud application security, the company was able to achieve comprehensive protection for its high-risk, high-value data. Fortinet’s granular security policies allowed the organization to ensure strict access control and prevent data breaches.

2. Protecting Government Networks: A government agency tasked with handling sensitive data used Fortinet’s Security Fabric to secure its entire network infrastructure. With FortiGate NGFWs at the perimeter, FortiClient on endpoints, and FortiAnalyzer for threat analytics, the agency achieved a high level of visibility and control over its network traffic, allowing for rapid detection and response to potential security threats.

These use cases demonstrate how Fortinet’s solutions can be deployed in highly regulated sectors, where security, compliance, and performance are critical.

Comparing Cisco Meraki and Fortinet—Pricing, Support, and Suitability for Different Business Scenarios

Pricing Structure: Cisco Meraki vs. Fortinet

The pricing structure is a crucial factor when choosing between Cisco Meraki and Fortinet, as the total cost of ownership (TCO) can significantly vary based on the specific needs of an organization. Both solutions offer subscription-based pricing models, but there are distinct differences in how these models are structured and the overall costs.

Cisco Meraki Subscription Costs

Cisco Meraki operates on a subscription-based licensing model that includes software updates, technical support, and access to the Meraki Dashboard. This model is straightforward and predictable, with the cost tied to the devices being used and the length of the license.

• Device License Required: Each Meraki device, including routers, switches, access points, and cameras, requires a separate license to function. The license is tied to the device, and it activates certain features depending on the plan chosen.

• License Duration: Meraki licenses can range from 1 to 10 years, with volume discounts available for larger deployments. Organizations can choose the duration based on their expected usage and financial planning.

• Annual Cost: The cost per device license can range from $150 to $400 per year, depending on the type of device and the features required. For example, the Meraki MX Series routers, which include advanced firewall and SD-WAN capabilities, typically have a higher cost per device than simpler devices such as access points.

• Meraki Now (Advanced Hardware Replacement): Meraki offers an additional service known as Meraki Now, which provides advanced hardware replacement for devices. This service adds a fee ranging from 8.5% to 19.13% of the device cost annually, depending on the level of support and device type.

The subscription model for Meraki ensures that organizations receive continuous firmware updates, technical support, and cloud integration, but it can become costly, especially for organizations with large-scale deployments or long-term usage.

Fortinet Subscription Costs

Fortinet takes a different approach to pricing by offering both hardware-based and subscription-based solutions. While many of Fortinet’s core products, such as the FortiGate firewall, can be used without a subscription, advanced services and support do require a licensing fee.

• Hardware Activation: FortiGate devices can operate without a license, but many advanced features, such as intrusion prevention, antivirus scanning, and SSL inspection, require an additional subscription. This subscription unlocks the full range of security capabilities within Fortinet’s products.

• FortiGuard Security Services: This includes subscription services such as antivirus, intrusion prevention, web filtering, and more. FortiGuard provides critical threat intelligence updates, ensuring that devices are always equipped with the latest defense strategies. Subscriptions for FortiGuard services can range from $100 to $500 per year, depending on the device model and required features.

• FortiCare Support Plans: Fortinet also offers FortiCare, which provides technical support, hardware replacement services, and firmware updates. These plans vary in cost based on the level of support required and the scale of the deployment. FortiCare plans typically range from $100 to $300 per year for small to mid-sized appliances, while enterprise-level support plans can be more expensive.

• Cost-Effective Bundles: Fortinet also offers bundled packages, such as the Enterprise Protection Bundle, which combine multiple security services at a discounted rate. These bundles typically include FortiGuard services, FortiCare support, secure SD-WAN capabilities, and sandboxing features, providing organizations with an all-in-one solution for their security needs. The cost for these bundles can range from $500 to several thousand dollars per year, depending on the size of the deployment.

Overall, Fortinet’s pricing is more flexible and tailored to the specific needs of an organization, with a lower initial hardware cost but additional ongoing costs for advanced security services and support.

Customer Support and Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

Customer support is a key aspect when considering a network solution, as it directly impacts how quickly IT teams can resolve issues and maintain the integrity of their networks. Both Cisco Meraki and Fortinet offer robust support options, but the level of support and service offerings vary.

Cisco Meraki Support Options

Meraki provides excellent customer service and offers various support plans through its Meraki Now program, which is designed to enhance the service experience with faster response times and additional hardware support.

• 24/7/365 Technical Support: Meraki offers around-the-clock technical support for all devices under a valid subscription. This ensures that businesses can reach out for help with troubleshooting or resolving any issues at any time.

• Advanced Hardware Replacement: The Meraki Now plan includes advanced hardware replacement, which guarantees that faulty devices are replaced within 2 to 5 business days. This service is especially valuable for businesses with a large deployment of Meraki devices, as it minimizes downtime and disruption.

• Flexible SLAs: Meraki provides flexible service-level agreements (SLAs) based on the type of device and the level of support required. Enterprise accounts can get dedicated engineers, while smaller businesses may have access to a more general support team.

For organizations that need ease of management, fast response times, and minimal on-site intervention, Meraki’s support system is highly efficient, particularly for smaller IT teams that need assistance quickly.

Fortinet Support Options

Fortinet provides its support through FortiCare, which offers various levels of service based on the needs of the organization.

• 8×5 or 24×7 Technical Assistance: Fortinet offers two primary support levels: standard 8×5 support and premium 24×7 support. The premium support includes faster response times and access to Fortinet’s expert engineers who can help resolve critical security issues.

• Hardware Replacement Services: FortiCare plans include hardware replacement services, which ensure that damaged or malfunctioning hardware is replaced promptly to minimize downtime. The speed of replacement depends on the support level, with higher-tier plans offering faster replacements.

• Firmware Updates and Threat Intelligence: FortiCare subscriptions include regular firmware updates and access to FortiGuard threat intelligence feeds, ensuring that devices are always equipped with the latest security measures and protections against emerging threats.

• Customer Service Tools: Fortinet provides a variety of tools to help IT teams manage their network infrastructure, such as centralized logging and analytics tools like FortiAnalyzer. These tools help organizations track performance, monitor network traffic, and proactively detect threats.

Fortinet’s support options are tailored for businesses that require high levels of security, with advanced services that cater to larger organizations or those with more complex security needs.

Real-World Use Case Scenarios

To understand how Cisco Meraki and Fortinet are implemented in real-world scenarios, let’s look at examples of how each solution benefits different industries.

Cisco Meraki in Action: Retail Network

A global retail chain with hundreds of branch locations across various regions deployed Cisco Meraki to simplify network management. Meraki’s cloud-based dashboard allowed the company to manage all locations remotely, reducing the need for on-site IT staff. The Meraki solution integrates Wi-Fi access points, security cameras, and mobile device management tools, providing centralized control over security and connectivity.

By using Meraki, the retail chain was able to

• Reduce On-Site IT Visits: IT staff no longer needed to visit each location for routine maintenance and configurations, as all devices could be managed remotely through the Meraki Dashboard.

• Integrate Security and Surveillance: The retail chain was able to integrate physical security cameras and Wi-Fi infrastructure under one unified system, simplifying operations and reducing the number of management tools.

• Improve Employee and Customer Connectivity: The cloud-managed Wi-Fi solution ensured seamless connectivity for employees and customers, improving the overall customer experience.

This example shows how Cisco Meraki’s simplicity and cloud-based management make it ideal for large, distributed networks, particularly in retail environments where rapid deployment and minimal on-site intervention are essential.

Fortinet in Action: Financial Services

A major financial institution with several data centers across the globe implemented Fortinet to enhance its cybersecurity infrastructure. Fortinet’s FortiGate Next-Generation Firewalls were deployed at the perimeter to provide deep packet inspection, while FortiAnalyzer was used to monitor network traffic and identify potential threats.

With Fortinet, the financial institution was able to

• Secure Cloud Applications: Using FortiCASB, the company was able to secure its cloud applications and ensure that sensitive financial data was protected from external threats.

• Achieve Granular Security Policies: Fortinet’s firewalls allowed the institution to enforce strict access controls based on user identity and application type, ensuring that only authorized users could access critical systems.

• Centralized Security Management: With FortiManager, the institution was able to manage its entire security infrastructure from a centralized platform, reducing the complexity of maintaining security across multiple locations.

This use case highlights Fortinet’s ability to provide deep, granular security and robust protection for enterprises that require advanced network defense, especially in sectors such as finance, where compliance and security are paramount.

Final Considerations: Choosing Between Cisco Meraki and Fortinet

When it comes to selecting the right network and security solution for your business, the decision between Cisco Meraki and Fortinet ultimately depends on several factors. These factors include the size and complexity of the organization, the nature of its operations, the level of security required, and the long-term growth strategy. In this section, we will dive deeper into the practical considerations businesses should take into account before making their decision, helping to align their needs with the unique strengths of either solution.

Ease of Deployment and Management

One of the most significant factors in choosing between Cisco Meraki and Fortinet is the ease of deployment and ongoing management. Cisco Meraki’s cloud-first architecture is a key advantage for businesses looking to minimize complexity and reduce the burden on internal IT resources.

• Cisco Meraki: Cisco Meraki is designed to be extremely user-friendly, with an intuitive, cloud-based dashboard that simplifies device configuration and management. The platform is highly automated, and the zero-touch provisioning process enables businesses to set up and scale their networks rapidly, even across multiple locations. This makes it ideal for organizations with limited IT staff or those that prioritize quick deployment and ease of use. Additionally, Meraki’s simple interface allows even non-technical personnel to manage networks effectively, making it a strong option for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) or distributed organizations with limited networking expertise.

• Fortinet: While Fortinet’s solutions are feature-rich and highly customizable, they are generally more complex to configure and manage compared to Meraki. Fortinet’s advanced security features, such as granular policy control, deep packet inspection, and custom firewall rules, require skilled network professionals to set up and maintain. Fortinet’s tools, like FortiManager and FortiAnalyzer, provide centralized control and network monitoring, but they come with a steeper learning curve and a higher requirement for technical knowledge. Fortinet is better suited for larger enterprises or businesses with dedicated network security teams that can handle more complex setups and configurations.

Security Focus

Both Cisco Meraki and Fortinet offer strong security features, but their focus areas differ significantly. For businesses whose primary concern is security, the choice between Meraki and Fortinet will be influenced by the level of security control and visibility required.

• Cisco Meraki: Meraki’s security offerings are robust but are typically viewed as sufficient for smaller businesses or those with less complex security needs. Meraki’s security features include built-in next-generation firewall (NGFW) capabilities, intrusion detection and prevention (IDS/IPS), content filtering, and secure VPN solutions. However, while Meraki provides strong security for most SMBs, it does not offer the same depth of granular security controls or advanced threat detection mechanisms as Fortinet. Meraki’s security tools are designed to be easy to use and manage, which is ideal for businesses that need quick, straightforward protection without requiring extensive customization or deep security expertise.

• Fortinet: Fortinet’s solutions are built around a security-first philosophy, with advanced features that cater to organizations with sophisticated security needs. The FortiGate NGFWs provide application-aware traffic control, SSL inspection, intrusion prevention, and deep packet inspection. Fortinet also integrates threat intelligence from FortiGuard, offering real-time updates on the latest security threats and vulnerabilities. The Security Fabric, which integrates Fortinet’s products across the entire infrastructure, ensures that businesses have end-to-end visibility and real-time threat detection. Fortinet is the ideal solution for large organizations, government agencies, and financial institutions that require robust, multi-layered security defenses with granular control over access policies, network segmentation, and threat intelligence.

Scalability and Flexibility

Scalability is another key consideration for businesses planning to expand their network infrastructure over time. The ability to scale quickly and efficiently without major disruptions is essential for organizations experiencing growth or those with distributed networks.

• Cisco Meraki: Meraki excels in scalability due to its cloud-based management platform. Adding new devices or expanding to additional locations is straightforward. Because all Meraki devices are managed through a central dashboard, IT teams can quickly deploy new devices, configure them remotely, and integrate them into the network. Meraki’s architecture is built to scale from small networks with a few devices to large, global deployments. This makes Meraki ideal for businesses with rapidly changing needs or those that plan to scale their operations in the future without a heavy reliance on local IT resources.

• Fortinet: Fortinet’s solutions are also highly scalable, but the process may require more planning and coordination due to the complexity of its offerings. FortiGate firewalls, along with FortiManager and FortiAnalyzer, can support large networks and multiple locations, and Fortinet’s solutions are well-suited for enterprises with complex security requirements. Fortinet provides flexible deployment options, including on-premises, hybrid, and cloud-based infrastructures, making it suitable for businesses with complex, hybrid IT environments. However, scaling with Fortinet often requires a more hands-on approach and a skilled IT team to manage the growth efficiently. It is ideal for large enterprises or organizations with multi-layered security needs that require a more customized approach.

Cost Considerations and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

Cost is always an important factor when evaluating networking and security solutions, especially when considering long-term expenses. Both Cisco Meraki and Fortinet offer subscription-based pricing models, but their overall cost structures differ based on the types of services required.

• Cisco Meraki: Meraki’s subscription-based model is relatively simple and predictable, but it can be costly over time, especially as the scale of deployment increases. The need to purchase device licenses for each Meraki product, combined with additional costs for support services like Meraki Now, can make Meraki more expensive for large organizations. However, the cost of ownership can be offset by the simplicity of management, the reduced need for on-site IT staff, and the ease of scaling. Meraki is often considered more cost-effective for businesses that prioritize ease of use and fast deployment.

• Fortinet: Fortinet’s pricing structure is more flexible, offering a range of services and products that can be tailored to an organization’s specific needs. Fortinet’s initial hardware costs tend to be lower than Meraki’s, but additional costs for FortiGuard security services, FortiCare support plans, and other advanced features can add up over time. The ability to bundle services, such as SD-WAN and threat intelligence, into discounted packages helps reduce the total cost for enterprises that need these services. While the upfront costs for Fortinet may be lower, businesses should consider the ongoing licensing and subscription costs when calculating the total cost of ownership. Fortinet is ideal for large enterprises with more complex needs, where the ability to customize security and networking solutions justifies the higher level of investment.

Support and Customer Service

Strong customer support is critical, especially when dealing with complex network and security configurations. Both Cisco Meraki and Fortinet offer solid support options, but they cater to different organizational needs.

• Cisco Meraki: Meraki’s customer support is highly regarded for its responsiveness and efficiency. The Meraki Now program provides 24/7 technical support and advanced hardware replacement, which is especially useful for businesses that need minimal downtime and quick issue resolution. Meraki’s cloud-first architecture ensures that IT teams can access the system remotely, and the intuitive dashboard allows for easier troubleshooting and management. Meraki’s support is ideal for businesses that need responsive and accessible support without the need for deep technical expertise.

• Fortinet: Fortinet also offers excellent support through its FortiCare program, providing both 8×5 and 24×7 support depending on the needs of the organization. Fortinet’s support is comprehensive, with options for hardware replacement, firmware updates, and access to real-time threat intelligence. Fortinet’s customer service is highly suited for businesses that need in-depth assistance, particularly when dealing with advanced security configurations or complex infrastructure issues. However, the level of support often correlates with the complexity of the deployment, meaning businesses with simpler needs may find Fortinet’s support to be more than necessary.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

In conclusion, choosing between Cisco Meraki and Fortinet depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the organization, the complexity of the network, security requirements, and budget considerations. Both solutions offer valuable benefits for businesses, but they cater to different needs.

• Cisco Meraki is the ideal choice for organizations seeking simplicity, cloud-based management, and rapid deployment. It is best suited for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), educational institutions, retail chains, and hybrid work environments that need easy scalability and minimal on-site IT involvement.

• Fortinet is the preferred solution for large enterprises, financial institutions, government agencies, and organizations with complex security requirements. Its advanced threat protection capabilities, deep security controls, and flexible scalability make it a strong choice for businesses that need robust protection against a wide range of cyber threats and have the resources to manage a more complex IT infrastructure.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your organization’s specific needs, long-term goals, and security priorities. Both Cisco Meraki and Fortinet are excellent solutions, and understanding the strengths and limitations of each will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right networking and security solution for your business is a crucial decision that will shape how you manage your infrastructure, secure your data, and scale your operations. Cisco Meraki and Fortinet are two of the most recognized names in the industry, each offering distinct advantages that cater to different organizational needs.

Cisco Meraki is an ideal choice for businesses looking for simplicity, ease of deployment, and cloud-first management. Its intuitive dashboard, automated processes, and seamless scalability make it perfect for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) or distributed organizations with a focus on reducing complexity and minimizing on-site IT efforts. Meraki allows organizations to quickly deploy and scale their networks while ensuring reliable security features are in place without requiring specialized technical expertise.

On the other hand, Fortinet is built for enterprises and organizations that need deep, granular security controls, advanced threat protection, and full visibility across their network. Its solutions are highly customizable, offering a greater level of control over network behavior, user access, and real-time threat detection. Fortinet excels in environments that demand enterprise-grade security, compliance with strict regulatory standards, and resilience against evolving cyber threats. It is best suited for larger businesses, government entities, financial institutions, and others with complex security needs and dedicated IT teams.

When deciding between Cisco Meraki and Fortinet, consider factors such as your organization’s size, the complexity of your network, and the level of security you require. Meraki’s simplicity makes it attractive for those looking for rapid deployment and easy management, while Fortinet’s powerful security fabric makes it the go-to choice for businesses with advanced security and customization needs.

Regardless of your choice, both platforms offer robust, scalable solutions that can evolve with your business as your network and security needs grow. By thoroughly evaluating your specific requirements and long-term goals, you can make an informed decision that best aligns with your business objectives and resources. Ultimately, both Cisco Meraki and Fortinet represent solid investments in modernizing and securing your digital infrastructure for the future.