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Cisco MX250-HW Meraki Network Security Firewall Appliance - 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet - 16 SFP/SFP+ Slots - 1U Rack-Mountable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
The MX250-HW integrates advanced security functionalities, including web content filtering and granular firewall policies, to protect network perimeters and internal segments. Its 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports operate at 10/100/1000Base-T speeds, ensuring compatibility with existing copper infrastructure while supporting high-bandwidth applications. The appliance features 16 expansion slots, with 8 dedicated to SFP and 8 to SFP+ modules, allowing for up to 10 Gbps fiber connections and future network upgrades.
Managed entirely through the cloud-based Meraki dashboard, the MX250-HW simplifies configuration, monitoring, and policy enforcement across distributed sites. The 1U rack-mount design conforms to standard 19-inch rack widths, with dimensions of 1.75" height, 19" width, and 17.30" depth. Dual 250W power supplies and system fans provide redundancy for continuous operation, while the included mounting kit and Cat5e cables facilitate quick deployment.
Relevant factors for this section include Firewall Protection Supported, Total Number of Ports, USB, Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The MX250-HW combines enterprise-grade security with operational simplicity, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking centralized control over network protection. Its cloud management platform eliminates on-premise controller hardware, reducing complexity and enabling remote troubleshooting. The appliance's high port density and expansion flexibility support evolving network architectures, from branch office connectivity to data center edge security.
Centralized Security Management
Leverage the Meraki dashboard for unified policy configuration, real-time threat visibility, and automated firmware updates across all deployed appliances.
- Web-based interface
- Role-based access control
- Integrated logging and reporting
Scalable Network Design
With 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 16 SFP/SFP+ slots, the MX250-HW accommodates mixed media deployments and future bandwidth requirements.
- Fiber and copper support
- VLAN segmentation
- Link aggregation capabilities
Deployment / Use Cases
The MX250-HW is suited for medium to large enterprise environments where reliable perimeter security and network segmentation are critical. It serves as a primary firewall for branch offices, headquarters, or campus networks, enforcing access policies and inspecting traffic for threats. The appliance's rack-mount design and redundant components make it a fit for data center deployments, where high availability and scalable uplinks are necessary.
Common use cases include securing internet gateways with content filtering, isolating sensitive departments or servers behind dedicated firewall zones, and aggregating multiple WAN connections for load balancing or failover. The MX250-HW also supports VPN tunneling for site-to-site or remote access, integrating seamlessly with other Meraki switches and access points for a complete SD-WAN solution.
Enterprise Branch Security
Deploy at remote offices to provide local firewall protection, content filtering, and secure VPN connectivity back to corporate resources.
Data Center Edge Protection
Install in rack environments to segment server farms, enforce east-west traffic policies, and provide fiber uplinks to core switches.
Physical Profile
The MX250-HW features a rugged, rack-optimized chassis with a brushed metal finish, designed for continuous operation in controlled environments. Its 1U height minimizes rack space consumption while providing adequate airflow for thermal management. The front panel includes status LEDs, USB port for local management, and Ethernet ports, with SFP/SFP+ slots accessible from the rear. The appliance ships with a mounting kit for standard 19-inch racks, and its weight of 16 lb ensures stability when installed.
- Width
- 19" (482.60 mm)
- Depth
- 17.30" (439.42 mm)
- Height
- 1.75" (44.45 mm)
- Weight
- 16 lb (7257.48 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate deployment and redundancy.
Highlights
- 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed network connectivity
- 16 SFP/SFP+ expansion slots supporting fiber uplinks and future upgrades
- 1U rack-mountable form factor for standard data center installation
- Cloud-managed via Meraki dashboard for centralized security control
- Dual redundant 250W power supplies and cooling fans for high availability
- Web content filtering and firewall protection for threat mitigation
- Lifetime limited warranty from Cisco
- RoHS compliant and environmentally friendly design
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cisco Systems, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | MX250-HW |
| Brand Name | Cisco Meraki |
| Product Series | MX |
| Product Model | 250 |
| Product Name | MX250 Network Security/Firewall Appliance |
| Product Type | Network Security/Firewall Appliance |
| Technical Information | |
| Firewall Protection Supported | Web Content Filtering,Content Filtering |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Ports | 8 |
| USB | Yes |
| Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports | 8 |
| Network & Communication | |
| Ethernet Technology | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Network Standard | 10/100/1000Base-T |
| I/O Expansions | |
| Total Number of Expansion Slots | 16 |
| Expansion Slot Type | SFP,SFP+ |
| Number of SFP Slots | 8 |
| Number of SFP+ Slots | 8 |
| Management & Protocols | |
| Manageable | Yes |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Compatible Rack Unit | 1U |
| Form Factor | Rack-mountable |
| Height | 1.75" (44.45 mm) |
| Width | 19" (482.60 mm) |
| Depth | 17.30" (439.42 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 16 lb (7257.48 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | MX250 Network Security/Firewall Appliance Mounting kit 2 x Cat 5 Ethernet cable 2 x 250W Power Supply 2 x System Fan |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | Lifetime |
FAQ
What is the primary function of the Cisco Meraki MX250-HW?
The Cisco Meraki MX250-HW is a network security and firewall appliance designed to protect enterprise networks at the edge. It provides firewall protection, web content filtering, and secure connectivity for branch offices, data centers, or campus environments. Managed through the cloud-based Meraki dashboard, it enables centralized policy enforcement and threat visibility without on-premise controller hardware.
How many network ports does the MX250-HW have, and what types are supported?
The MX250-HW includes 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports with RJ-45 connectors, supporting 10/100/1000Base-T standards for copper connections. Additionally, it features 16 expansion slots for SFP and SFP+ modules, allowing for fiber optic uplinks. This combination provides flexibility for mixed media deployments and high-bandwidth requirements.
Is the MX250-HW rack-mountable, and what are its physical dimensions?
Yes, the MX250-HW is designed for rack-mount installation in a standard 19-inch rack. It has a 1U form factor with dimensions of 1.75 inches in height, 19 inches in width, and 17.30 inches in depth. The appliance weighs approximately 16 pounds and includes a mounting kit for easy installation in data center or network closet environments.
What management options are available for the MX250-HW?
The MX250-HW is fully manageable through the Cisco Meraki cloud dashboard, which provides a web-based interface for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting. This cloud management approach eliminates the need for on-site controllers, offering features like automated updates, role-based access, and integrated reporting. The appliance also includes a USB port for local management if needed.
Does the MX250-HW include redundant components for high availability?
Yes, the MX250-HW includes dual 250W power supplies and dual system fans for redundancy, ensuring continuous operation in case of a component failure. This design supports high-availability deployments where uptime is critical, such as in data centers or enterprise network perimeters.
What warranty and environmental compliance does the MX250-HW offer?
The MX250-HW comes with a lifetime limited warranty from Cisco, covering defects in materials and workmanship. It is also environmentally friendly and complies with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive, reflecting sustainable manufacturing practices. The appliance is sourced from Taiwan and includes all necessary components for deployment in the package.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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