An Introduction to Cisco Meraki and Its Benefits for Nonprofits

This article first appeared on the TechSoup Global website - thanks to them for sharing!

For nonprofits, where resources are often limited, Cisco Meraki offers an opportunity to build reliable, secure, and scalable networks without requiring a large IT team.

Cisco Meraki is a leader in cloud-managed IT solutions. Its ecosystem includes wireless access points, switches, security appliances, smart cameras, and more — all managed through a single easy-to-use cloud dashboard. Designed with simplicity and scalability in mind, Cisco Meraki is ideal for organizations looking to focus less on managing IT and more on achieving their mission.

Why Nonprofits Need Robust Networking Solutions

Nonprofits operate in diverse environments — from small offices to community centers, event spaces, and mobile clinics. Regardless of the environment, a strong network ensures the following:

• Efficient operations: Reliable connectivity supports daily tasks like email, file sharing, and donor management.
• Enhanced service delivery: Public Wi-Fi in community spaces or secure networks for remote work improves service accessibility.
• Data protection: Nonprofits handle sensitive data, from donor information to beneficiary records, requiring strong security measures.

How Cisco Meraki Supports Nonprofit Missions

Cisco Meraki stands out because it simplifies network management and enhances operational efficiency, enabling nonprofits to focus on their goals rather than their networks. Cisco is also a dedicated supporter of the nonprofit sector, making its technology accessible to nonprofits through initiatives including the donation and discount programs hosted by TechSoup.

Key Benefits for Nonprofits

1. Ease of Use:
• The Meraki Dashboard offers a centralized interface to monitor and manage all devices.
• Features like zero-touch provisioning make setup and updates seamless, even for small teams.
2. Scalability:
• You can start small and grow your network as your organization expands.
• Cisco Meraki devices are designed to integrate easily, whether for a single site or for multiple locations.
3. Cost-Efficiency:
• Cisco Meraki provides nonprofit donations and discounts through TechSoup, making advanced technology more accessible.
• Cloud-managed systems reduce the need for on-site IT staff or costly maintenance.
4. Security:
• Built-in features like firewalls, automatic firmware updates, and advanced threat detection protect against cyberthreats.
5. Remote Management:
• Managing your entire network remotely saves time and travel costs.
• Remote management is ideal for nonprofits with distributed staff or multiple locations.

Real-World Impact of Cisco Meraki

Imagine a nonprofit that runs a food bank and provides shelter services.

• The office staff can rely on a stable, high-speed network for administrative tasks.
• Public Wi-Fi can be securely offered in community areas.
• Cisco Meraki cameras can help ensure the safety of staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries and provide analytics such as how many visitors there were over a given time period.
• Environmental sensors protect food storage by alerting staff to temperature fluctuations.

Peruse Cisco Meraki’s customer stories to learn more about how organizations have implemented their technology to support their goals.