Technologies: Network Topology

Intelligent mapping of physical links

Network topology automatically maps network architectures, showing how Meraki security, switching, and wireless devices are connected—including redundant links disabled by the Spanning Tree Protocol to prevent data loops. In the topology view, squares represent MX security appliances, rectangles represent MS switches, and circles represent MR access points. Non-Meraki equipment is also detected and displayed (as diamonds). Because Meraki MS switches automatically listen for LLDP and CDP broadcasts from connected devices, it may be possible to detect the manufacturer, model type, IP address, and more of third-party equipment. This is done automatically, with no overlay software needed.

Layer 3 Topology View

Our Layer 3 Topology View lets you toggle the topology diagram to see how the network is logically connected using interfaces and subnets. Nodes with interfaces on the same subnet are connected and annotated with the subnet address for quick referencing.

Dynamic device searching

Quickly zero in on the devices that matter by using the dynamic search tools available in the topology dashboard view. Search for network devices by name, tag, or device type to see how equipment is deployed. Devices not meeting search criteria will be automatically dimmed, so that sought-for equipment is highlighted. Conversely, if you are viewing details for a specific client, like a laptop or mobile phone, from within the Meraki dashboard, clicking the “topology” link will highlight which network device that client is directly connected to—enabling a quick assessment of upstream connectivity.

Usage statistics and status

See at a glance where trouble lies on your network: devices displayed in the topology view are color-coded based on connectivity health. Meraki devices alerting red or yellow can be immediately clicked into for remote diagnosis and troubleshooting. Hovering over individual network links displays the active ports at each termination point, the number of clients using that link for the last day, link speed, and link usage. These statistics make it easy to pinpoint which links are the most heavily-trafficked and service the most clients.