Description
Cloud Managed Cellular
Connectivity is critical for any organization that depends on reliable internet access in order to function. Wireless WAN connectivity options, such as cellular networks, serve as a reliable backup internet uplink in the event of a primary uplink failure.
The MG21 cellular gateway simplifies the path to wireless WAN connectivity and makes cellular a viable uplink option many networks. MG21 acts as a gateway to cellular networks, by converting LTE signal from a cellular provider to an ethernet handoff, which can be used as an internet uplink for a variety of use-cases.
Product Highlights
- Sleek, low profile form factor
- x1 CAT6 cellular modem – up to 300Mbps
- x1 nano SIM card slot
- x2 GbE ports
- Multi-surface mounting bracket for attachment to walls, ceilings, or poles
- IP67 rated for environments of all types
- Manageability from the Cisco Meraki dashboard
Use Cases
Note that the following use-cases refer to using Meraki MX appliance using the MG21 as a WAN uplink. However, the use-cases also apply to non-Meraki devices.
Antenna placement where cellular coverage is best: Signal strength is key for cellular performance. The MG21 makes cellular a viable option in situations the best location for the MX is not always the best for cellular signal. The separation of cellular antenna and MX expands cellular options for all networks, particularly for mid-range MXs mounted in a data center.
Primary WAN
In areas where wired internet services are not available, the MG21 provides a simple, viable option for wireless WAN connectivity.
Secondary WAN for Failover
An MX’s secondary WAN interface connected to an MG21 may use the cellular network in the event of a primary uplink failure.
Secondary WAN for SD-WAN
An MX with an MG21 as a secondary WAN uplink may use the cellular network to establish VPNs for SD-WAN.
High Availability Uplink
The MG21 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.
What do I need?
You need a SIM card with data for your region and you need to power the MG21 via PoE or local 12V adapter.
The output is an unfiltered internet feed on 1GbE ethernet cable. Plug this into the WAN port of your firewall.
The SIM card and contract are not provided.
Choosing between the MG21 and MG21E and the antennas
If you are technical, you can look at the antenna datasheets on the pages of this site.
However, in our opinion the choice is probably going to be down to how good your cellular signal strength is where you intend to mount or install your MG21/E. Remember you can mount either outside. Just think about how you are going to get the ethernet cable to it and provide the necessary power via PoE.
If the signal is good, then just get the MG21. It has excellent internal antennas that should cope well in most situations.
If the signal is not-so-good, opt for the MG21E. It comes with two external dipole (stick-like) antennas that you can angle to get the best of the signal available. If after you have tried that it doesn’t work so well, and you have sited it in the best place you can, then you can buy the patch antenna and plug it in instead of the dipoles. The patch antenna is a directional antenna designed to point towards the local cell tower to make the most of the signal available.
If the celullar signal is awful opt for the MG21E and go straight for the patch antenna. Mount them outside. The patch antenna is a directional antenna designed to point towards the local cell tower to make the most of the signal available.
