Meraki MS Switches - Can you block sites like TikTok, WeChat etc.?

S1N1STAR
New here

Meraki MS Switches - Can you block sites like TikTok, WeChat etc.?

Most of our network sits behind a firewall but we have a couple small (~250 users at one, ~20 at other) remote sites with MS switches that have internet provided by a third party, so off the firewall. We have a coming directive to block sites such as TikTok and WeChat and are looking at how to best accomplish this for these remote locations. I am relatively new to Meraki cloud managed devices (old skool 3Com/Cisco guy) so unsure if this is even within MS capability or if we need to replace/supplement with MX device. Any guidance appreciated!

6 Replies 6
DarrenOC
Kind of a big deal
Kind of a big deal

Hi @S1N1STAR , I’m afraid you can’t achieve this with just your Meraki switch.  You may even struggle with a Meraki MX as whilst it’ll block requests via a web browser you won’t be able to block users using apps on their devices.

Darren OConnor | doconnor@resalire.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenoconnor/

I'm not an employee of Cisco/Meraki. My posts are based on Meraki best practice and what has worked for me in the field.
DarrenOC
Kind of a big deal
Kind of a big deal

Are all end users devices corporate and managed via an MDM?  If so you could restrict users installing these apps and then block browser sessions at the MX

Darren OConnor | doconnor@resalire.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenoconnor/

I'm not an employee of Cisco/Meraki. My posts are based on Meraki best practice and what has worked for me in the field.
S1N1STAR
New here

Unfortunately most of the users at these locations are students/guests so using their personal devices on our wifi.  The wired connections are our computers providing either an AD or guest account.

DarrenOC
Kind of a big deal
Kind of a big deal

Hi @S1N1STAR , could be worth exploring Cisco Umbrella to block these Apps for guest users.  Umbrella can integrate with Meraki so could be avenue worth exploring 

Darren OConnor | doconnor@resalire.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenoconnor/

I'm not an employee of Cisco/Meraki. My posts are based on Meraki best practice and what has worked for me in the field.
mikecarter
Here to help

You would need a MX device in order to perform these blocks. But as DarrenOC has said, it would be a struggle. You would also need the Advanced Security license in order to perform Content Filtering in order to get TikTok blocked.

S1N1STAR
New here

Thank you all for the responses!  Always more to learn and we'll be looking into MX/Umbrella solutions for these locations.  The insight especially into typical Cisco nuances is appreciated.

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