Meraki MR46E-HW Cloud-Managed Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Access Point

Meraki MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point

Product Details

• Manufacturer: Meraki
• Part Number: MR46E-HW
• Product Type: Wireless Access Point

Technical Specifications

• Form Factor: External
• Connectivity Technology: Wireless
• Line Coding Format: 1024 QAM, OFDMA
• Frequency Bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz

Data and Protocols

• Data Link Protocol: Supports IEEE 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac Wave 2, and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)
• Spread Spectrum Method: OFDMA
• Network/Transport Protocol: IPSec

Management and Indicators

• Cloud Management: Yes
• Status Indicators: Power, Boot State, Operational Status

Security and Encryption

• Encryption Algorithms: AES, TLS, TTLS, TKIP, WPA, WPA2-PSK, WPA2-Enterprise, WEP, EAP-SIM, WPA3-Enterprise, WPA3-Personal, WPA3-Enhanced Open
• Authentication Methods: MS-CHAP v.2, Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP), EAP-SIM

Advanced Features

• Security Features: Firewall Protection, VPN Support, Wireless Intrusion Detection System (WIDS), Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS)
• Quality of Service: Quality of Service (QoS), DiffServ Code Point (DSCP) Support
• Additional Technologies: MU-MIMO, SU-MIMO, Maximum Ratio Combining (MRC), Bluetooth Low Energy Beaconing, Opportunistic Key Caching (OKC), 4×4:4 MU-MIMO Technology, Packet Aggregation, Target Wake Time (TWT)
• Mounting and Security: External Antenna, Security Slot (Kensington Lock Compatible)

Compliance and Standards

• Standards Compliance: IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.1P, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.1X, IEEE 802.11i, IEEE 802.11h, IEEE 802.11e, IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11k, IEEE 802.3at, IEEE 802.11r, IEEE 802.11u, IEEE 802.11ac Wave 2, IEEE 802.11ax

Expansion and Connectivity

• Interfaces: 1 x 1/2.5GBase-T (PoE+) – RJ-45

Technology: Wi-Fi 6

The Meraki MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point features the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology, also known as 802.11ax. This advanced wireless standard brings a host of benefits and improvements over its predecessors, making it an essential feature for users who require high-performance and reliable connectivity.

Increased Capacity and Efficiency

Wi-Fi 6 provides a significant upgrade in terms of capacity and efficiency compared to previous Wi-Fi generations. With the ability to support more devices simultaneously, this technology is ideal for environments with dense device deployments, such as large offices, campuses, or public venues.

By utilizing techniques such as orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) and multi-user multiple-input, multiple-output (MU-MIMO), Wi-Fi 6 allows for more efficient use of available bandwidth. This means that even in crowded areas with numerous connected devices, users can enjoy faster speeds and reduced latency.

Enhanced Speed and Performance

The MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point's Wi-Fi 6 capability enables faster data transfer rates, providing an exceptional user experience. With support for up to 4.8 Gbps data rates, this access point ensures that users can quickly transfer large files, stream high-definition media, and engage in bandwidth-intensive applications without any lag or buffering.

In addition to faster speeds, Wi-Fi 6 also offers improved performance in challenging environments. The technology utilizes beamforming techniques to direct the wireless signal towards connected devices, enhancing coverage and reducing interference. This results in a more stable and reliable connection, even in areas with obstacles or signal interference.

Better Battery Life for Connected Devices

One of the key advantages of Wi-Fi 6 is its ability to extend the battery life of connected devices. With the introduction of target wake time (TWT) technology, devices can intelligently schedule their wake-up times, allowing them to conserve energy when not in use.

This feature is particularly beneficial for IoT devices and battery-powered devices that rely on Wi-Fi connectivity. With Wi-Fi 6, these devices can operate for longer periods without the need for frequent recharging or battery replacement.

Future-Proofing Your Network

Investing in Wi-Fi 6 technology ensures that your network is prepared for the future. As more devices adopt this advanced wireless standard, having Wi-Fi 6 access points in place allows your network to handle the increasing demand for higher speeds, improved performance, and increased device density.

Moreover, Wi-Fi 6 is designed to coexist with previous Wi-Fi generations, ensuring backward compatibility. This means that even devices that do not support Wi-Fi 6 can still connect to a Wi-Fi 6 access point and benefit from its enhanced capabilities.

Management: Cloud-Managed

The Meraki MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point offers cloud-managed functionality, providing users with an intuitive and centralized platform to monitor, configure, and manage their wireless network. This cloud-based management approach brings numerous benefits and simplifies network administration tasks.

Simplified Deployment and Scalability

With cloud-managed access points, deploying a new wireless network or expanding an existing one becomes a streamlined process. The Meraki dashboard allows administrators to easily add new access points, configure their settings, and deploy them across multiple locations simultaneously.

This level of scalability is particularly valuable for businesses with multiple sites or growing network requirements. Whether it's adding access points to a remote office or expanding coverage within an existing facility, cloud-managed management simplifies the process and reduces the time and effort required.

Remote Management and Troubleshooting

Cloud-managed access points enable administrators to remotely monitor and troubleshoot network issues from anywhere with an internet connection. This eliminates the need for on-site visits, reducing downtime and saving valuable resources.

The Meraki dashboard provides real-time visibility into network performance, allowing administrators to identify potential problems before they impact users. Additionally, advanced troubleshooting tools and diagnostics help pinpoint issues quickly, enabling prompt resolution and minimizing disruption to network operations.

Centralized Network Administration

Cloud-based management centralizes network administration, providing a single pane of glass to oversee all access points and their configurations. This eliminates the need for separate management interfaces for each access point, reducing complexity and streamlining administrative tasks.

Administrators can easily apply global settings across the entire network or configure specific parameters for individual access points or groups. This granular control ensures consistent policies and settings throughout the network, enhancing security, compliance, and overall network performance.

Automatic Firmware Updates and Security Patches

Cloud-managed access points receive automatic firmware updates and security patches directly from the Meraki cloud. This ensures that your network remains up-to-date with the latest features, bug fixes, and security enhancements without requiring manual intervention.

Automatic updates not only simplify network maintenance but also enhance network security by promptly addressing vulnerabilities. By leveraging the cloud-managed approach, administrators can rest assured that their access points are protected against emerging threats and benefit from ongoing improvements without any additional effort.

Features: High-performance, Enterprise-grade security, Seamless roaming, Intelligent network analytics

The Meraki MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point offers a range of features that contribute to exceptional performance, enterprise-grade security, seamless roaming, and intelligent network analytics. These features ensure a reliable and efficient wireless network for users across various environments and use cases.

High-performance

The MR46E-HW Access Point delivers high-performance wireless connectivity, thanks to its advanced hardware and software capabilities. With support for Wi-Fi 6 technology, this access point can handle the increasing demands of bandwidth-intensive applications, large file transfers, and concurrent device connections.

By utilizing features such as OFDMA and MU-MIMO, the MR46E-HW optimizes bandwidth utilization and minimizes latency, resulting in faster speeds and improved user experience. Whether it's a busy office environment or a crowded public venue, this access point ensures that users can stay connected and productive.

Enterprise-grade security

Security is a top priority for any wireless network, especially in enterprise environments. The MR46E-HW Access Point incorporates enterprise-grade security features to protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats.

With integrated WPA3 encryption protocols and 802.1X support, this access point ensures secure authentication and data transmission. Additionally, advanced security features such as rogue AP detection, client isolation, and secure guest access further enhance network security.

Seamless roaming

Seamless roaming is crucial for environments where users move between different areas or access points while maintaining a continuous network connection. The MR46E-HW Access Point supports seamless roaming, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity as users roam throughout the coverage area.

This feature is particularly valuable in scenarios such as large offices or warehouses where employees need to move between different areas without experiencing any interruptions or dropped connections. Seamless roaming enhances productivity by allowing users to stay connected to critical applications and resources.

Intelligent network analytics

The MR46E-HW Access Point provides intelligent network analytics, allowing administrators to gain insights into network performance and user behavior. With the Meraki dashboard, administrators can access real-time data and analytics, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize network performance.

Network analytics provide valuable information about client devices, traffic patterns, application usage, and overall network health. This data can help identify potential bottlenecks, optimize network settings, and plan for capacity upgrades or network expansion based on user behavior and demands.

Interfaces: 1 x 2.5GbE Ethernet port, 1 x 1GbE Ethernet port

The MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point is equipped with two Ethernet ports - one 2.5GbE Ethernet port and one 1GbE Ethernet port. These interfaces provide flexible connectivity options and allow for seamless integration into existing network infrastructures.

Increased Network Speeds

The inclusion of a 2.5GbE Ethernet port on the MR46E-HW Access Point enables faster wired connections to the network infrastructure. This higher speed interface allows for increased data transfer rates, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications or scenarios where high-speed connectivity is required.

By leveraging the 2.5GbE Ethernet port, users can take full advantage of the access point's wireless capabilities without being limited by slower wired connections. This ensures that the access point can deliver its maximum performance potential while supporting the growing demands of modern networks.

Flexible Deployment Options

The presence of both a 2.5GbE Ethernet port and a 1GbE Ethernet port provides flexibility in deployment options. The 1GbE Ethernet port allows for integration into standard network environments, while the 2.5GbE Ethernet port caters to higher-speed network infrastructures.

Whether it's connecting the access point to a traditional gigabit Ethernet switch or taking advantage of faster network speeds with a compatible 2.5GbE switch, the MR46E-HW can adapt to various network setups and ensure seamless integration without requiring additional hardware investments.

Future-Proof Connectivity

The inclusion of a 2.5GbE Ethernet port on the MR46E-HW Access Point provides future-proof connectivity, ensuring that the access point can support upcoming network infrastructure upgrades. As network speeds continue to evolve, having a higher-speed interface allows for smooth transitions without requiring immediate hardware replacements.

By investing in an access point with a 2.5GbE Ethernet port, users can ensure their network is prepared for future advancements and avoid potential bottlenecks or limitations associated with slower interfaces. This future-proof connectivity provides peace of mind and protects the longevity of the network infrastructure.

Antennas: Internal omnidirectional antennas

The MR46E-HW Access Point features internal omnidirectional antennas, designed to provide reliable coverage and efficient signal distribution across the wireless network. These antennas offer several benefits, ensuring optimal performance and coverage in various deployment scenarios.

Wide Coverage Area

The omnidirectional nature of the internal antennas allows for a wide coverage area, ensuring that wireless signals are evenly distributed in all directions. This results in consistent coverage throughout the access point's deployment area, minimizing dead zones and ensuring that users can connect from any location within the coverage area.

Whether it's a small office or a large open space, the internal omnidirectional antennas provide reliable connectivity across the entire area, eliminating the need for additional access points or signal boosters.

Flexible Deployment Options

With internal omnidirectional antennas, the MR46E-HW Access Point offers flexibility in deployment options. The antennas are integrated within the access point, eliminating the need for external antenna installations or adjustments.

This streamlined design simplifies the installation process and reduces potential points of failure. Whether the access point is ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, or placed on a desktop, the internal omnidirectional antennas ensure optimal signal distribution without requiring additional hardware or adjustments.

Efficient Signal Distribution

Internal omnidirectional antennas are designed to efficiently distribute signals in all directions, maximizing coverage and minimizing signal degradation. This ensures that users receive strong and stable connections regardless of their location within the coverage area.

The efficient signal distribution provided by internal omnidirectional antennas is particularly beneficial in environments with multiple obstacles or signal interference. By evenly distributing signals, these antennas help mitigate the effects of physical obstructions and maintain reliable connectivity throughout the deployment area.

Power: Power over Ethernet (PoE) support

The MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), a convenient feature that simplifies installation and eliminates the need for separate power cables and outlets. PoE support brings several benefits to users deploying the access point in various environments.

Simplified Installation

With PoE support, the MR46E-HW can be powered directly through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power cables and outlets near the access point. This simplifies installation and reduces cabling requirements, especially in scenarios where power outlets are limited or not easily accessible.

By utilizing PoE, users can deploy access points in locations that may not have readily available power sources, such as ceilings or outdoor areas. This flexibility allows for optimal access point placement based on coverage requirements without being constrained by power availability.

Centralized Power Management

Power over Ethernet enables centralized power management, providing administrators with control and monitoring capabilities for the access points' power usage. With PoE, administrators can remotely enable or disable power to the access points, reducing energy consumption when not required.

This centralized power management feature is particularly valuable in environments where access points may need to be turned off during non-operating hours or during maintenance periods. By efficiently managing power usage, administrators can save energy and reduce operational costs.

Reliable Power Delivery

PoE ensures reliable power delivery to the MR46E-HW Access Point, even in scenarios where power fluctuations or outages may occur. The use of Ethernet cables for both data and power transmission eliminates the risk of power interruptions caused by faulty power cables or outlets.

Additionally, PoE-powered access points can benefit from uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, ensuring continuous operation during power outages. This level of reliability is essential for critical network environments where uninterrupted connectivity is crucial.

Mounting: Ceiling Mountable

The MR46E-HW Wireless Access Point is ceiling mountable, offering a discreet and convenient installation option that maximizes coverage and minimizes obstructions. Ceiling mounting brings several benefits and is particularly suitable for environments where aesthetics, coverage, and ease of installation are important factors.

Optimal Coverage and Signal Distribution

Ceiling mounting allows for optimal coverage and signal distribution throughout the deployment area. By positioning the access point closer to users' devices and minimizing obstructions such as walls or furniture, ceiling mounting ensures that wireless signals can reach users with minimal interference or signal loss.

The elevated position of the access point also helps maximize coverage area, as the signals can propagate more effectively in a downward direction. This results in a larger coverage area and ensures that users throughout the deployment area can connect reliably to the wireless network.

Discreet and Aesthetic Installation

Ceiling mounting offers a discreet and aesthetically pleasing installation option, especially in environments where the appearance of the access points is a consideration. By mounting the access point on the ceiling, it remains out of sight and blends seamlessly with the environment.

This discreet installation is particularly valuable in environments such as hotels, conference rooms, or retail spaces, where maintaining a clean and professional appearance is essential. Ceiling mounting allows for unobtrusive integration while still providing optimal wireless coverage.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

Ceiling mounting simplifies the installation process and reduces potential points of failure. The MR46E-HW Access Point is designed with ceiling mounting in mind, featuring a compact form factor and mounting options that facilitate easy installation.

Additionally, ceiling-mounted access points are generally less susceptible to accidental damage or tampering compared to wall-mounted or desktop options. This enhances the longevity of the access point and reduces the need for frequent maintenance or replacements.