If you’re a smart home enthusiast or just getting started on making your home intelligent, you might have come across terms like “Meraki” and “smart home control.” Meraki, while traditionally known for networking solutions, has extended its reach into smart home automation via plugins that can integrate seamlessly with a platform like HOOBS. Today, we’re going to dive into what the Meraki Control Plugin can do for your smart home, how to install and configure it using HOOBS, the supported accessories, and some automation ideas to make your life easier.

What Can You Do with the Meraki Control Plugin?

The Meraki Control Plugin is a powerful addition to your smart home setup, allowing you to integrate and control your Meraki devices effortlessly. With this plugin, you can manage network access, control devices, monitor traffic, and even shut down or power up devices based on your needs. This means greater control over your network and its connected devices — and the best part is, you can do it all from the comfort of your Apple ecosystem.

Step-by-Step Guide to Install and Configure the Meraki Control Plugin

Installing and setting up the Meraki Control Plugin with HOOBS is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly interface. Follow these steps:

1. Open the HOOBS App on your device: If you haven’t already, download the HOOBS App to manage your smart home accessories with ease.
2. Click on +Add Accessory: Navigate to the accessories section in your HOOBS dashboard.
3. Choose Install a Plugin: You’ll be given the option to install new plugins.
4. Use the Search Bar to Find “Meraki Control”: Simply type “Meraki Control” in the search bar to find the plugin in the HOOBS Plugin Library.
5. Click on the Plugin and Select Install: Follow the prompts to install the plugin. It’s as easy as clicking a button!
6. Configure the Plugin Settings: After installation, configure the plugin by entering your Meraki account credentials and setting up any additional preferences you might have.

Once the plugin is installed and configured, you’ll have complete control over your Meraki devices using Apple’s Home app on your preferred devices.

Supported Accessories by the Meraki Control Plugin

The beauty of the Meraki Control Plugin is its compatibility with several accessories, allowing you a wide range of functionalities. Here are some popular supported devices along with their model numbers and Amazon links for easy purchase:

1. Meraki Go GS110-8P Switch: Amazon Link
2. Meraki Go GR10 Indoor Access Point: Amazon Link
3. Meraki MR33 Cloud Managed Wireless Access Point: Amazon Link

By integrating these devices into your HOOBS setup, you can automate functions like toggling network access and monitoring network activity from anywhere.

Here are 3 Automations You Can Achieve with Accessories Added via the Meraki Control Plugin to Apple Home

1. Network Access Control: Want to ensure your kids’ devices are offline during dinner or homework time? Set up a simple automation within the Apple Home app to disable Wi-Fi access to specific devices at set times. It’s an easy and effective way to manage screen time.
2. Guest Network Activation: Hosting a party or some friends for a game night? Use the Meraki Control Plugin to automate the activation of a guest network when guests arrive. You can even set it to deactivate at the end of the party to ensure your main network stays secure.
3. Device Activity Monitoring: Gain insight into when and how your devices are accessing the network with automation that sends you a notification through the Home app whenever specific devices connect or disconnect. This not only enhances security but also helps you understand your network’s usage patterns.

Wrap-Up

Using the Meraki Control Plugin with HOOBS is a great way to add functionality and security to your smart home network. Whether it’s installing a controlled guest network, scheduling Wi-Fi access for your kids, or monitoring the devices on your network, the possibilities are vast. And the best part? With HOOBS, integrating Meraki into your smart home has never been easier.

To make the most of your smart home experience, explore more on our HOOBS Blog where we share tips, updates, and guides just like this one. Whether you’re in the market for a HOOBS Pro or need the simplicity of the HOOBS Box, we’re here to support your journey to a more connected and intelligent home. Happy automating!