topic Re: network design cost in Cloud Networking Platform

network design cost

mtint — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:07:38 GMT

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!

Re: network design cost

RWelch-USA — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:47:58 GMT

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 $.

Re: network design cost

aleabrahao — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 15:43:49 GMT

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 @RWelch2 on this one.

Re: network design cost

MerakiGnome — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 17:06:47 GMT

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.

Re: network design cost

Philip D'Ath — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 19:55:51 GMT

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

Re: network design cost

Philip D'Ath — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 19:56:33 GMT

This.

Re: network design cost

BlakeRichardson — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 20:33:03 GMT

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.

Re: network design cost

mtint — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:50:24 GMT

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

Re: network design cost

mtint — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:52:13 GMT

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

Re: network design cost

RWelch-USA — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:02:01 GMT

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.

Re: network design cost

mtint — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:11:48 GMT

Statement of Work (SOW)

Project: Meraki Network Deployment

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Re: network design cost

RWelch-USA — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:15:14 GMT

The only thing I missed was the quote cost. 😊

Re: network design cost

mtint — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:17:40 GMT

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.

Re: network design cost

BlakeRichardson — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:10:56 GMT

I would say thats to high considering your doing it for a friend, based on the scope it looks like you are setting up a simple home network. Have you spoken to the client/friend about what their budget is?