If you’re looking to provide secure remote access to your corporate network, implementing a Client VPN is a smart move. Cisco Meraki’s dashboard makes this easier with its GUI-based setup for L2TP/IPsec and Meraki AnyConnect VPN clients. Whether you want to support native clients (like Windows and Mac L2TP/IPsec) or Meraki’s proprietary AnyConnect client, this guide will walk you through the process with clarity and confidence.
Why Use Meraki Client VPN?
- User-friendly: Configure everything through a streamlined web interface.
- Flexible: Supports native L2TP/IPsec clients and Meraki AnyConnect.
- Secure: Utilizes IPsec encryption to protect remote sessions.
- Scalable: Suitable for small businesses and larger enterprises.
Prerequisites Before You Start
- A Meraki MX Security Appliance with a valid license.
- Admin access to the Cisco Meraki Dashboard.
- Static IP address or dynamic DNS ready for VPN client targets.
- Basic knowledge of network and firewall concepts.
Step 1: Access the Cisco Meraki Dashboard
Log in to your Cisco Meraki Dashboard at dashboard.meraki.com. Navigate to the Security & SD-WAN section and select your MX device.
Step 2: Enable Client VPN
- In the dashboard sidebar, go to Security & SD-WAN > Configure > Client VPN.
- Toggle Client VPN to Enabled.
Step 3: Configure VPN Settings
Select VPN Type
- Choose L2TP with IPsec to enable native VPN clients.
- Alternatively, you can enable Meraki AnyConnect if you want to use Meraki’s own client software for enhanced features.
Set the Authentication Method
You have two primary options:
- Pre-shared key (PSK): Enter a strong, complex key. This key will be used by all clients.
- Meraki Cloud Authentication or RADIUS: For enterprise environments with centralized user management.
Configure IP Address Assignment
- Specify an IP range that will be allocated to VPN clients, e.g.,
192.168.100.0/24. Make sure it does not overlap with your local LAN subnet.
Step 4: Add User Accounts (if applicable)
- Under the Client VPN tab, scroll down to Authentication.
- For Meraki Authentication, create user accounts by adding usernames and secure passwords.
- If you use RADIUS, configure your RADIUS server settings here.
Step 5: Define Subnet and DNS Settings
- Set the Subnet from which the VPN clients will receive their IPs.
- Configure DNS servers to push to VPN clients. You can use internal DNS servers or public ones like Google (8.8.8.8).
Step 6: Save and Test
- Click Save to apply your configuration.
- On a client device (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android), set up a VPN connection:
- For L2TP/IPsec native clients: Use the public IP or hostname of your Meraki MX as the VPN server, enter your username and password, and add your pre-shared key.
- For Meraki AnyConnect: Download Meraki’s AnyConnect client from meraki.com or respective app stores, and configure it with the same credentials.
- Connect and verify that you can access internal network resources securely.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure the MX firewall allows UDP ports 500, 1701, and 4500 (standard for L2TP/IPsec).
- Double-check that your subnet settings do not overlap with other networks.
- Verify your pre-shared key and usernames match exactly what is configured in the Dashboard.
- Use the Live Tools on the Meraki Dashboard to see connection logs.
Final Thoughts
Implementing a client VPN with Cisco Meraki offers a balance of robust security and effortless management through the dashboard GUI. Whether you’re enabling native L2TP/IPsec clients or deploying the Meraki AnyConnect client, this setup provides flexible and secure remote access options to fit your needs. Take your time setting up the client VPN correctly, and your users will enjoy seamless and safe connectivity from anywhere.
By following these straightforward steps, you can confidently secure your remote workforce and keep your business moving forward with Meraki’s trusted VPN solutions.
