The models
Cisco's end-of-life notice for these Meraki MR access points set the last order date at July 21, 2021 and the end of support at July 21, 2026: MR33, MR42, MR45, MR52, MR53, MR53E, MR74 and MR84.
Cisco's named replacements: the MR33 is replaced by the MR36, the MR42 by the MR44, the MR52 by the MR46, the MR53 by the MR56, and the MR84 by the MR86.
What end of support means
After the end-of-support date, Cisco no longer releases firmware or security updates for the model. The access points don't switch off; they keep serving clients, but known vulnerabilities stay unpatched and new features never arrive.
Should you replace them now?
For networks that handle sensitive data, or that need to meet a security policy or insurance requirement, plan the replacement now. For a low-risk guest network or a temporary site, end-of-support units can still do the job while you budget for the change.
When you replace them, check two things: that your switches can deliver the PoE the newer model needs, and that your Meraki licensing covers the new devices.
Buying replacements
Current models like the MR36, MR44, MR46 and MR56 are widely available new and used. A used unit must be unclaimed from its previous owner's dashboard, and needs a license for your organization. Our catalog marks every end-of-support model so you can avoid buying one by accident.