TD SYNNEX is very excited to announce a new revenue and margin stream for partners built around Cisco 5G fixed wireless access technology and ATT networks. “For 35 years, Cisco’s routers have served as the key connection point to service provider networks, but with the rise of 5G, that role is evolving,” Will Scruggs, Strategic Business Manager forCisco Enterprise Networking & Meraki at TD SYNNEX, explained in an interview with EDGE360. Unlike 4G, 5G operates at much higher frequencies, which struggle to penetrate walls, making traditional approaches less effective. To address this, Cisco and AT&T have partnered to simplify the deployment and management of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) for campuses, branches, retail, and any outdoor location.
Their latest offering—the Cisco Meraki MG52 and MG52E Cellular Gateways—are the first true-5G, Standalone (SA) capable, discreet FWA devices to offer cloud-managed eSIM technology powered by Cisco IoT Control Center, enabling faster, more flexible connectivity. For distribution partners, this presents a powerful opportunity in a fast-expanding market.
Optimizing 5G Connectivity: MG52’s Strategic Design
Cisco’s Meraki MG52 is strategically designed to optimize 5G reception. Unlike past strategies like placing routers in building closets, the MG52 can be positioned near windows or outside buildings, ensuring strong signal strength. The MG52 series is IP67 rated so either model can be deployed outside without a separate enclosure! From this vantage point, it connects via a cable to the primary router, providing uninterrupted and high-speed connectivity. “While the topology isn’t new, what is new is the focus Cisco is placing on both the device and market,” Scruggs explained.
Capitalizing on 5G Growth: A Huge Opportunity for Partners
With 5G adoption projected to skyrocket at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 77 percent from 2022-2027, distribution partners are well-positioned to tap into a rapidly expanding market. This growth represents a substantial opportunity to provide cutting-edge solutions that meet the increasing demand for fast, reliable connectivity.
The Cisco Meraki MG52, part of the broader Cisco Meraki ecosystem, integrates effortlessly into the existing Meraki management platform. This seamless integration not only simplifies operations but can also drive additional sales by bundling the MG52 with Meraki’s MX routers. As Scruggs highlighted, “Managing this device alongside other Meraki network components streamlines network administration, making it easier for businesses to optimize their connectivity while opening new sales opportunities for partners.”
Moreover, partners can significantly boost profitability by leveraging eSIM activation technology, which accelerates deployments and connectivity. By using this simplified approach and submitting device IMEI numbers to TD SYNNEX for referral payments, partners can unlock new revenue streams while offering customers a fast and easy experience.
AT&T and Cisco Meraki Partnership: Simplifying Connectivity and Lowering Costs
A key benefit of this partnership is the hassle-free digital purchasing and instant-on provisioning offered by AT&T. Businesses no longer need to wait for physical SIM cards to be shipped and installed. They just need to go to the AT&T website to set up their fast activation account. Once setup, it’s easy to tie into the Meraki dashboard. “At this point, you power up your Meraki device, it pings home to the Meraki dashboard and right in the dashboard you can activate the device,” Scruggs said. This eliminates costly delays, reduces downtime, and significantly cuts deployment times for branch connectivity.
Mike Troiano, Senior Vice President of Product and Pricing at AT&T Business, highlighted the significance of this innovation: “Together with Cisco, we are making it faster and easier for companies to transform their networks and conduct business with cutting-edge connectivity.”
By leveraging AT&T’s extensive 5G coverage, businesses can extend connectivity to hard-to-reach locations or temporary setups. With zero-touch provisioning, devices are operational immediately upon power-up, simplifying network deployments to an unprecedented level. With data plans priced affordably, the solution provides businesses substantial savings in operational expenses, especially those with a national presence. TD SYNNEX recently hosted a webinar about Cisco and AT&T’s partnership.
Practical Applications for the MG52: Transforming Connectivity in Key Industries
These devices are particularly well-suited for industries that rely on fast, reliable connectivity, such as branch offices and retail environments. In these scenarios, the MG52 acts as the primary connection source, delivering 5G-powered internet for day-to-day operations.
For partners, this represents an excellent opportunity to serve industries that rely on secure and fast connectivity but may face issues with traditional wired networks. With Cisco and AT&T’s innovative solution, partners can meet the growing demand for 5G FWA while providing customers with a streamlined, cost-effective way to stay connected.
A Powerful Solution for an Evolving Market: Seizing the Opportunity
For distribution partners, the introduction of the Cisco Meraki MG52 and MG52E represents a significant growth opportunity in a booming market. With 5G’s rapid expansion and the strategic collaboration between Cisco and AT&T, businesses now have a fast, reliable way to extend their networks. By leveraging the cloud-managed eSIM technology and the instant-on provisioning offered by AT&T, partners can provide customers with cutting-edge solutions that enhance both operational efficiency and profitability.
Now is the perfect time for partners to embrace the 5G FWA revolution, capitalize on Cisco’s new product line, and deliver the next generation of connectivity solutions to businesses everywhere.
Learn more about Meraki 5G52 here.
