Meraki MS355-48X Layer 3 Switch

The Meraki MS355-48X Layer 3 Switch is a purpose-built, cloud-managed networking powerhouse engineered to future-proof enterprise networks against the demanding bandwidth needs of next-generation wireless environments. With high-count multi-gigabit ports, robust Layer 3 routing capabilities, and streamlined management through the Meraki Dashboard, this switch is designed to support dense Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) deployments, campus networks, and data-center edges with ease. The MS355-48X integrates seamlessly into existing Meraki ecosystems, delivering centralized visibility, automated policy enforcement, and rapid troubleshooting across all connected devices. For organizations planning large-scale deployments of high-density access points, IoT devices, and distributed sites, this switch provides the backbone you need to sustain fast, reliable network performance while simplifying day-to-day administration.

• High-Density, Multi-Gigabit Edge Ports: The MS355-48X is built to handle modern workforces and bandwidth-intensive applications with a dense array of ports designed for multi-gigabit performance. It supports abundant 1G Ethernet connections to connect users, devices, and access points, ensuring low-latency connectivity across crowded networks. This model is optimized for environments where Wi-Fi 6 APs demand substantial backhaul capacity, delivering steady throughput and consistent performance even in peak usage scenarios.
• Cloud-Managed, Centralized Policy with Meraki Dashboard: The switch leverages Meraki's cloud-driven management platform, giving IT teams a single pane of glass to configure networks, enforce security policies, monitor performance, and rapidly respond to incidents. Features such as zero-touch provisioning, scalable VLAN management, and role-based access controls streamline deployment and ongoing governance, reducing on-site visits and accelerating rollout timelines.
• Layer 3 Routing for Flexible Network Design: Beyond switching, the MS355-48X delivers robust Layer 3 capabilities that support static routes, dynamic routing protocols, ACLs, QoS, and advanced traffic segmentation. This enables efficient inter-VLAN routing, optimized routing paths between campuses, and precise policy enforcement at the network edge. The result is a more scalable, resilient infrastructure that can adapt to evolving traffic patterns and security requirements without added hardware complexity.
• Ready for Next-Generation Wireless and IoT: As organizations prepare for 802.11ax (Wi‑Fi 6) adoption, the MS355-48X provides the high-throughput backhaul and reliable performance needed to sustain dense AP deployments. Its architecture focuses on reducing congestion, improving application response times, and delivering a smoother user experience in high-density spaces such as lecture halls, corporate campuses, hospitality venues, and large retail environments.
• Reliability, Manageability, and Enterprise-Grade Design: Built for always-on networks, the MS355-48X features a rugged, rack-mountable chassis with efficient cooling and modular design considerations. Its integration with Meraki's cloud ecosystem ensures proactive monitoring, alerting, and analytics, enabling IT teams to identify trends, forecast capacity, and implement policy changes without complex manual configurations.

Technical Details of Meraki MS355-48X Layer 3 Switch

• Ports: 48 x 1G Ethernet ports for flexible device and edge connectivity. The expansive port count supports large office floors, education campuses, and campus-core layer deployments, enabling straightforward device attachment and scalable access layer design.
• Uplinks: 4 x 10G SFP+ uplink interfaces provide high-speed, scalable connectivity to core switches, distribution layers, or aggregation points. These uplinks accommodate rapid backhaul growth and enable scalable indirect routing paths for diverse network topologies.
• Layer 3 Capabilities: Static routing and dynamic routing support (where applicable), along with ACLs, QoS, and multicast features, deliver flexible network segmentation, traffic prioritization, and secure data flow between VLANs and remote sites. The switch supports standard enterprise routing workflows and granular policy enforcement to optimize performance and security.
• Management: Cloud-managed via the Meraki Dashboard for centralized provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Real-time analytics, historical trends, and automated alerts help administrators maintain uptime and quickly address issues across distributed locations.
• Form Factor and Reliability: 1U, rack-mountable switch designed for enterprise data closets, campuses, and distribution areas. The hardware is built for reliability in demanding environments, with cooling, power, and fan configurations aligned to minimize downtime and maintain stable operation during peak periods.
• Power and Firmware: Powered via standard AC supply with support for Meraki firmware updates, ensuring access to feature enhancements, security improvements, and performance optimizations. Firmware management is handled centrally through the Meraki Dashboard, simplifying ongoing maintenance.

how to install Meraki MS355-48X Layer 3 Switch

Installing the Meraki MS355-48X is a straightforward process guided by Meraki’s cloud-based provisioning workflow. Begin by mounting the switch in a standard 19-inch rack and securing it with appropriate hardware. Connect the power supply and verify that the device boots correctly. Prepare your Meraki Dashboard organization and ensure you have an active license for the device, as cloud management requires a current subscription. Connect the 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks to your network core or distribution layer, and connect the 48 x 1G ports to endpoints, APs, or access switches as needed. During adoption, the switch will appear in the Meraki Dashboard for you to claim and assign to a network. From there, configure VLANs, access control lists, and QoS policies as required by your network design. Enable Layer 3 features and routing as needed, and apply security controls such as ACLs and dynamic routing options to optimize traffic flow. Regularly review performance dashboards and alert settings to maintain peak operation. With Meraki’s centralized management, you can push configurations to multiple devices simultaneously, simplify software updates, and rapidly adjust to changing network requirements without visiting each site.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the purpose of the Meraki MS355-48X Layer 3 Switch?
• A: It serves as a high-density, cloud-managed switch that combines Layer 3 routing with extensive switching capabilities. It is designed to support large-scale, Wi-Fi 6 deployments and provide a scalable backbone for campus and data-center edge networks, all managed through the Meraki Dashboard.
• Q: How many ports and uplinks does the MS355-48X have?
• A: The MS355-48X features 48 x 1G Ethernet ports for edge connectivity and 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks for high-speed connections to core or distribution layers. This configuration balances endpoint density with scalable uplink options.
• Q: Is the MS355-48X PoE-enabled?
• A: PoE capabilities depend on the specific SKU. Some Meraki MS355 variants offer PoE on ports, while others do not. Check the exact SKU specifications to confirm PoE support for your deployment needs.
• Q: How does cloud management benefit the MS355-48X?
• A: Cloud management via the Meraki Dashboard provides centralized configuration, automatic firmware updates, real-time analytics, proactive health monitoring, and rapid troubleshooting across all connected devices, reducing on-site maintenance and simplifying multi-site administration.
• Q: What kind of network environments is the MS355-48X best suited for?
• A: It is well-suited for enterprise campuses, high-density office networks, and locations with dense Wi‑Fi 6 deployments. Its Layer 3 capabilities and 10G uplinks make it ideal as an access/aggregation switch in environments where performance, scale, and centralized control are critical.
• Q: What licensing or subscriptions are required?
• A: Meraki cloud-managed devices require a current Meraki license to access the Dashboard and receive feature updates. Ensure you purchase the appropriate license for your deployment scope and users.