Connecting multiple sites securely can be challenging. Here’s a look at troubleshooting Meraki site-to-site VPNs, especially focusing on the nuances between full tunnel and split tunnel setups:

Common Troubleshooting Steps:

Verify Internet Connectivity: Ensure that both sites have stable internet connections. Use tools like ping or traceroute to confirm network availability.

Check VPN Settings: Confirm that VPN parameters such as pre-shared keys, IP addresses, and encryption settings match on both Meraki devices.

Full Tunnel vs. Split Tunnel:

Full Tunnel VPN:

All network traffic from the client is routed through the VPN, making it secure but potentially slower.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Check for IP address conflicts between your local network and the network at the VPN’s other end.

Monitor traffic loads as high bandwidth usage can degrade performance. Use Meraki’s traffic shaping features to prioritize critical applications.

Split Tunnel VPN:

Only traffic destined for corporate resources is sent through the VPN, while other traffic accesses the internet directly.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Ensure correct routing and access control lists (ACLs) are configured to direct the right traffic through the VPN.

Verify DNS settings, as improper configurations can lead traffic outside the VPN unintentionally.

Diagnostics and Monitoring:

Use the Meraki Dashboard for real-time insights and log analysis. Look for:

Connection logs for failed attempts.

Event logs for dropped connections or error messages.

Traffic analytics to understand flow patterns and detect anomalies.

Pro Tips:

Test with Minimal Setup: Simplify your configuration to the essentials to isolate variables.

Simulation Tools: Use Meraki’s built-in simulation tools to test and predict network behavior under different scenarios.

By understanding the specifics of full tunnel and split tunnel configurations, you can better diagnose issues and optimize your network’s performance.

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