Cisco Meraki licenses are typically offered in durations of 1, 3, 5, 7, or 10 years and include software updates, technical support, and access to advanced features. Choosing between Co-Term and PDL depends on an organization’s size, scalability, and specific operational needs.
Posted on Wednesday, December 16, 2024
Meraki Licensing Models: Co-Term vs. Per-Device License
When managing network infrastructure, choosing the right licensing model is crucial. Cisco Meraki offers two licensing options—Co-Term and Per-Device—designed to cater to the unique needs of various organizations, including nonprofits. While both models offer flexibility and the ability to scale, they have different structures and benefits that can help optimize network management.
This blog breaks down the key differences and benefits of both licensing models, making it easier for nonprofits to choose the best fit for their needs.
Cisco Meraki licenses
What Is Meraki Licensing?
Meraki licenses are required to manage your Meraki network hardware, such as wireless access points (APs), switches, security appliances, and cameras. These licenses are purchased and activated through the Meraki dashboard, and they ensure that devices stay up to date with software updates and provide access to cloud-based management features.
Cisco Meraki offers two types of licenses: Co-Term Licensing and Per-Device Licensing. Understanding the distinction between the two can help your nonprofit make informed decisions about network management.
Co-Term Licensing
In Co-Term Licensing, all Meraki devices within an organization are set to the same expiration date, determined by the licenses' average expiration date. This system ensures that all devices, regardless of purchase, will expire on the same day, simplifying license renewal and management.
Key Benefits:
- Single Expiration Date
All devices have one common expiration date, making license management more straightforward. - Easier Renewal
Renewing licenses is simpler since it applies to the whole organization simultaneously rather than individually. - Simplified Administration
A single expiration date means less tracking of various devices, freeing up time and reducing the complexity of managing multiple devices across locations. - Dynamic Calculation
The expiration date is automatically recalculated based on license purchases and claims, making it adaptable to changes in the network infrastructure. - How It Works
For example, if you have a mix of short-term and long-term licenses for devices, the system averages out the expiration dates, providing a unified expiration for all devices. This process is automatic and managed by the Meraki dashboard.
Per-Device Licensing
Per-device licensing offers more flexibility by allowing each Meraki device to have its expiration date based on when the license was purchased. This model will enable nonprofits to renew their licenses individually or in groups as needed.
Key Benefits:
- Flexible License Expiry
You can have different expiration dates for each device, which is helpful if different devices are added at different times.
- Partial Renewals
Instead of renewing all devices at once, you can renew just a subset of devices or networks, which can be more cost-effective.
- License Mobility
Move licenses easily between different organizations or networks, making it ideal for nonprofits that operate in multiple locations or have rotating devices.
- 90-Day Activation Window: You have up to 90 days to activate a license after claiming it, which gives you more time to plan deployments.
- Control Over Device Deactivation: Meraki will only deactivate that specific device after the 30-day grace period if a license expires. This provides more control over which devices stay active.
- How It Works: Each device is assigned a separate license with an individual expiration date. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for organizations with diverse needs or those expanding their network over time.
Comparison of Co-Term vs. Per-Device Licensing
Feature | Co-Term Licensing | Per-Device Licensing |
Expiration Dates | Single expiration date for all devices in an org | Individual expiration dates for each device |
Renewal | Renew all devices at once | Renew devices individually or in groups |
License Mobility | Not available | Move licenses between organizations or networks |
Expiration Date Calculation | Averaged across all devices | Based on the purchase date of each device |
Grace Period | N/A | 30-day grace period for expired licenses |
Flexibility | Less flexible | More flexibility with license activation and renewal |
Best For | Organizations with centralized device management | Organizations with varying deployment times or needs |
Which Model is Right for Your Nonprofit?
Choosing between Co-Term Licensing and Per-Device Licensing depends on your nonprofit's specific needs:
- Co-term licensing is ideal for nonprofits that prefer simplicity and consistency, particularly if you manage fewer devices or your network setup will stay the same. This option simplifies the renewal process, ensuring that all devices in your network are aligned with a single expiration date.
- Per-device licensing is better suited for nonprofits with diverse needs across multiple locations or if your organization tends to add new devices at varying times. It offers greater flexibility in managing device licenses and budgeting, making adding and renewing new devices as needed easier.
Nonprofits Save 50% or More on Cisco Meraki Through Telecom4Good
As a nonprofit, you can use Telecom4Good's Cisco Meraki Nonprofit Discount Program, which offers up to 50% off on Meraki products, including licenses. Whether you choose the Co-Term or Per-Device licensing model, this can significantly reduce the cost of maintaining a high-performance network.
Choosing the right licensing model for your organization ensures your network runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently. Visit our Shop Cisco Meraki page for pricing and to explore all available products and services.
Need assistance choosing the right model for your nonprofit? Contact us at mailto:meraki-support@telecom4good.org or schedule a call with our team to discuss your specific needs and find the best licensing solution.
Feel free to contact us for more detailed guidance on Cisco Meraki licensing or to explore product options for your nonprofit.
Conclusion
Both Co-Term and Per-Device Licensing models from Cisco Meraki offer unique advantages, and understanding these options is crucial for nonprofits looking to optimize their network infrastructure. Whether you're looking for simplicity and streamlined renewals or flexibility and greater control over individual device licenses, Meraki's licensing models have you covered. Plus, with Telecom4Good's discounts for nonprofits, you can get the best value for your investment.
Make the smart choice today to ensure your nonprofit's network remains secure, scalable, and ready for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Co-Termination Licensing averages the expiration dates of all licenses in an organization, creating a unified renewal date. Per-Device Licensing assigns individual expiration dates to each device, offering more flexibility for organizations with diverse licensing needs.
Consider your organization’s size, scalability needs, and management preferences. Co-Term is ideal for streamlined management, while Per-Device offers flexibility for scaling networks or managing licenses individually.
Yes, Cisco Meraki allows organizations to transition between licensing models. However, this may involve a recalibration of license terms and durations. Consulting with a provider like Telecom4Good can help facilitate the transition smoothly.
Cisco Meraki offers discounted pricing for nonprofits, though costs vary depending on the number of devices, license duration, and model chosen. Nonprofits can contact partners like Telecom4Good for tailored pricing and assistance.
Telecom4Good supports nonprofits by providing guidance on selecting the most cost-effective licensing model, assisting with implementation, and offering ongoing technical support to ensure optimal use of Meraki solutions.
