Key Features of QoS in Meraki SD-WAN

1. Application-Based Traffic Shaping:

   • Meraki SD-WAN can identify and prioritize traffic based on Layer 7 application visibility. This allows you to set specific QoS rules for critical applications like VoIP, video conferencing, or ERP systems.

2. Multiple WAN Links:

   • Meraki SD-WAN can utilize multiple WAN connections (e.g., MPLS, broadband, LTE) and apply QoS policies across them, dynamically selecting the best path for different types of traffic.

3. Dynamic Path Control:

   • QoS in Meraki SD-WAN works with dynamic path control to ensure that real-time applications are sent over the most reliable and lowest-latency links, automatically adjusting as network conditions change.

4. Traffic Shaping Policies:

   • Administrators can define traffic shaping rules to limit the bandwidth available to less critical applications, ensuring that essential services have adequate resources.

5. Bandwidth Reservations:

   • You can reserve a minimum amount of bandwidth for specific applications or user groups, which is critical for maintaining performance during peak usage times.

6. Client-Specific QoS:

   • QoS policies can be applied at the client level, allowing for tailored bandwidth limits and prioritization based on the specific needs of users or devices.

Configuring QoS in Meraki SD-WAN

Here’s a step-by-step guide to configuring QoS settings in the Meraki Dashboard for an SD-WAN environment:

1. Access the Dashboard:

   • Log into the Meraki Dashboard and select the organization and network you want to configure.

2. Navigate to SD-WAN Settings:

   • Go to Security & SD-WAN > Configure > SD-WAN.

3. Traffic Shaping:

   • Click on Traffic shaping. Here, you can configure global traffic shaping rules and application-based policies.
   • Define rules based on application categories or individual applications, setting priorities and bandwidth limits as necessary.

4. Performance Metrics:

   • Under Monitor > Appliance Status, review performance metrics to assess traffic flow and the effectiveness of QoS configurations.

5. Dynamic Path Selection:

   • Configure path selection based on latency, loss, and jitter. This ensures that critical applications are routed over the most reliable paths.

6. Save and Apply:

   • After making the necessary changes, save and apply the configuration. Monitor the network performance to verify that QoS settings are functioning correctly.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Traffic Analysis: Use the Meraki Dashboard to analyze traffic patterns and determine if QoS settings are meeting performance goals.
• Client Insights: Review client reports to understand bandwidth usage and adjust QoS policies as needed.