Cisco Meraki MS120-8FP 8-Port Cloud-Managed PoE+ Switch

Overview

The Cisco MS120-8FP-HW is a cloud-managed PoE+ switch designed to provide reliable and high-performance network connectivity for small businesses and branch offices. It features 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports with a total power budget of 124 watts, allowing you to power devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras directly through the network cable. With a switching capacity of 20 Gb/s and a forwarding rate of 14.88 million packets per second, this switch ensures efficient handling of network traffic while maintaining smooth data flow.

Equipped with two SFP ports, it offers flexible fiber uplink options for longer distance or higher speed connections. The fanless design supports quiet operation, making it well suited for office environments. Cisco’s cloud-based management platform simplifies setup and ongoing administration through zero-touch provisioning and remote monitoring, helping reduce the need for on-site technical support.

Key features

• Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) on 8 ports with a 124W power budget to eliminate the need for separate power supplies on connected devices
• Two SFP Gigabit uplink ports provide flexible options for fiber connections and network expansion
• Cloud-managed interface enables zero-touch provisioning, remote configuration, and real-time monitoring for simplified network management
• Fanless design ensures quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive office spaces
• Supports both Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking features to accommodate various network architectures
• Includes mounting brackets and a security slot for versatile installation and enhanced physical security

Key specs

• Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports
• Power budget: 124 watts total for PoE+ devices
• Uplink ports: 2 SFP Gigabit fiber ports
• Switching capacity: 20 Gb/s
• Forwarding rate: 14.88 million packets per second
• Management: Cloud-based with zero-touch provisioning
• Design: Fanless for silent operation

Connectivity and compatibility

The switch’s 8 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports support a wide range of network devices that require both data and power over a single cable, simplifying installation and reducing clutter. The two SFP ports allow for fiber optic connections, which are useful for linking to other switches or network segments over longer distances or at higher speeds. This combination of copper and fiber connectivity makes the switch adaptable to various network setups and future growth.

Installation and setup

Installation is straightforward with included mounting brackets and a security slot, allowing you to securely mount the switch in a rack or on a wall. The cloud-managed interface supports zero-touch provisioning, meaning the switch can be configured remotely without needing on-site technical expertise. This reduces deployment time and ongoing maintenance efforts, making it a practical choice for small IT teams or remote offices.

Ideal uses and environments

This switch fits well in small business offices, branch locations, or any environment where powering multiple network devices through PoE+ is beneficial. Its quiet, fanless design makes it suitable for noise-sensitive areas such as open-plan offices or meeting rooms. The cloud management features appeal to organizations seeking easy remote management and monitoring without complex local infrastructure. Overall, it is a strong choice for setups that require dependable network performance combined with flexible power delivery and simplified administration.