Understanding the End-of-Life (EoL) cycle for Meraki MX firewalls is more than a compliance task—it is a strategic decision that impacts operational stability, budget planning, and network security. When Cisco Meraki announces EoL dates, it signals that support and production for those models will eventually cease. Ignoring EoL milestones carries risks, including missing firmware updates, limited technical support, and difficulty sourcing replacement parts. Proactive planning allows organizations to choose between extending the life of current hardware or migrating to newer models, optimizing capital expenditure and ensuring seamless operations.
Cisco Meraki’s EoL process involves several stages:
End-of-Sale (EOS) Announcement: Official notice issued prior to final order cutoff. Hardware can still be purchased until EOS.
End-of-Sale (EOS) Date: Last date to purchase the product through authorized channels.
End-of-Support (EOST) Date: Last date for official support, including firmware updates and troubleshooting. Post-EOST, the device is considered obsolete for manufacturer support.
MX Model EoL Dates Table
The following table lists confirmed EoL dates for Meraki MX models:
Product
End-of-Sale (EOS) Date
End-of-Support (EOST) Date
MX64-HW, MX64W-HW
July 26, 2022
July 26, 2027
MX65-HW, MX65W-HW
May 28, 2019
May 28, 2026
MX67-HW
TBD
TBD
MX84-HW
October 31, 2021
October 31, 2026
MX85-HW
TBD
TBD
MX95-HW
TBD
TBD
MX100-HW
February 1, 2022
February 1, 2027
MX250-HW
TBD
TBD
For a quick verification of your Meraki MX hardware lifecycle, you can use the Router-switch free EOL/EOSL checker to confirm dates and plan replacements.
Licensing Implications
Firmware & Management: After EOST, devices may no longer receive firmware updates or fully connect to the Meraki cloud dashboard.
License Renewal: EOL hardware cannot receive new licenses. Existing licenses must be monitored for expiration.
License Transition: Devices under warranty may be replaced with equivalent models, and license terms transferred.
Part 2: Replacement Strategy & Decision Scenarios
Migration Considerations
Organizations must decide whether to upgrade immediately or extend the current hardware’s lifespan:
New Hardware Selection: Align required features (AMP, SD-WAN, IPS) with license tier (Enterprise, Advanced Security, Secure SD-WAN Plus).
Licensing Strategy: Subscription licensing is recommended for continuity, supporting Amber Mode to maintain traffic flow during compliance lapses. Co-Term licenses risk network shutdown if expired.
Configuration Migration: Use Meraki Dashboard and API tools for smooth transition.
Third-Party Maintenance (TPM) Alternatives
TPM providers can offer diagnostics, repair, and parts replacement.
Enables deferring CapEx while maintaining operational stability.
Providers like Park Place Technologies or Evernex offer global support.
Router-switch Procurement Advantages
Using platforms like Router-switch can help streamline your replacement process, providing fast quotations, in-stock genuine Cisco and multi-brand hardware, technical guidance, and flexible payment options to simplify procurement planning and ensure smooth deployment.
Part 3: Product Mapping & Replacement Recommendations
Consider TPM if immediate hardware refresh is not feasible.
Leverage platforms with verified inventory, multi-brand options, and flexible payment methods to reduce lead times and simplify budgeting.
FAQ
What are the EoL and End-of-Support dates for MX models?
End-of-Sale (EOS) marks the final purchase date. End-of-Support (EOST) is typically five years later, after which firmware and official support cease.
Can I continue receiving firmware updates after EoL?
No. Post-EOST, legacy devices may not receive firmware updates. Third-party maintenance can extend operational life but cannot replace official support.
Which MX models are recommended replacements?
Replacement depends on performance and licensing tier:
Enterprise: MX67, MX105
Advanced Security: MX75, MX450
Secure SD-WAN Plus: MX100, MX250
How to migrate configurations and licenses?
Use the Meraki Dashboard for configuration migration. In-warranty EOL hardware may have remaining licenses transferred to replacement models.
Can existing licenses transfer to new devices?
Yes, if replaced under warranty. New licenses for EOL hardware cannot be purchased.
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