network design cost

[mtint]

I have a small Meraki network that started with three free devices and licenses I received from an online seminar. Since then, I've expanded it to include two APs, a 24-port switch, and an 8-port switch.

A friend of mine who works from home is looking for a similar setup. I'm helping them with the design and deployment, but a third party will handle the cabling and equipment costs.

For those of you with experience in network consulting, what's a reasonable fee I should charge for this kind of design and deployment work? I'd appreciate any insights on how to price a small-scale project like this.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

[RWelch]

If it were me, I would offer them the name / phone # of your Meraki partner or solutions expert so they can get paired with the right equipment based on their network needs/requirements - and it also helps the friend save a bit of $.

[mtint]

its  sml business from home - he does not want to spend £££££ money by paying consulting services.

[RWelch]

And the scope of work and deliverables you provide include…?

if it’s a small network I can’t imagine this being hours and hours of design/development.

[mtint]

Statement of Work (SOW)

Project: Meraki Network Deployment

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1. Objective

The purpose of this engagement is to design, configure, and deploy a resilient Meraki-based network infrastructure that supports dual internet connectivity, secure wireless access, and seamless integration of IoT and client devices.

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2. Scope of Work

2.1 Internet Connectivity

• Provision and configure BT and Hyperoptic internet services.

• Deploy in active-active configuration on the Meraki MX to ensure high availability and load balancing.

2.2 WAN Configuration

• Configure DrayTek Vigor 166 for BT ADSL service.

• Assign and configure WAN ports on the Meraki MX for both BT and Hyperoptic connections.

2.3 Wireless Network

• Create and configure two SSIDs:

  • Private (secure internal access).

  • Guest (segregated access with appropriate firewall/security rules).

• Conduct a Wi-Fi survey to optimise coverage and performance.

2.4 Infrastructure & Cabling

• Coordinate with a third-party cabling provider for installation of network cabling.

• Oversee and quality-check all cabling works to ensure compliance with Meraki and industry standards.

2.5 Meraki MX & Device Deployment

• Configure and deploy the Meraki MX firewall.

• Configure SSIDs and associated policies.

• Deploy and onboard client’s network devices to the Meraki dashboard.

2.6 IoT Integration

• Ensure all IoT devices (e.g., smart home / office devices) connect to the network.

• Verify functionality and stability post-deployment.

2.7 Testing & Validation

• Test network performance, including speed benchmarks.

• Validate failover between BT and Hyperoptic connections.

• Document test results and provide a summary report to the client.

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3. Deliverables

• Fully configured Meraki MX firewall with dual WAN setup.

• Two fully functional SSIDs (Private & Guest).

• Wi-Fi survey report and optimised configuration.

• Oversight and validation of structured cabling installation.

• Deployment and verification of all client devices (including IoT).

• Final testing results (speed tests and failover validation).

• Handover documentation.

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4. Exclusions

• Supply of internet lines (BT and Hyperoptic) – to be provided by the client.

• Supply of cabling hardware – handled by third-party cabling contractor.

• Ongoing managed services – out of scope unless otherwise agreed.

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5. Timeline

The project is expected to be completed within [X] working days from the agreed start date, subject to cabling contractor scheduling and ISP availability.

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6. Acceptance Criteria

The project will be deemed complete when:

• Both BT and Hyperoptic connections are operational in active-active mode.

• Failover between ISPs functions as expected.

• Wi-Fi SSIDs are live, secure, and tested.

• All IoT and client devices are connected and functioning.

• Cabling is installed, tested, and signed off.

• Client approves final validation report.

---

[RWelch]

The only thing I missed was the quote cost. 😊

[alemabrahao]

I think that it's very difficult to set a price for you, as I believe each country has its own pricing system, according to its own rules.

But, when I work as a freelancer, I personally give the client two options: an hourly rate or a fixed price for the entire service, defining the estimated number of hours needed to complete the job.

But I agree with @RWelch  on this one.

[DarrenOC]

I’d honestly stay clear of such an engagement.  Doing anything paid for a friend often doesn’t work out well.  What’s that saying “don’t mix business with pleasure”.  Unless you can nail down a water tight scope and set of deliverables you’ll be forever beholden to his network, PC, internet issues.

[PhilipDAth]

This.

[PhilipDAth]

It's going to depend on where in the world you live, and what networking qualifications you have.

[mtint]

uk and i have some networking skills but now a day i am f/t linux/hpc work

[BlakeRichardson]

Your experience 100% matters in this instance. You don't want to risk hurting a friendship or ending up in a legal mess if you don't have much experience.  

[mtint]

My initial idea was to price it near £2.5k, though I don’t want it to come across as too steep. I’d like to get some outside perspectives before finalising.