Cisco WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL 24-Port GigE PoE+ 4x10G SFP+ LAN Lite Switch

Overview

1. Port Configuration

• 24 Power over Ethernet (PoE) Ports: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL is equipped with 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports that support Power over Ethernet (PoE) and PoE+. These ports allow the switch to deliver both data and electrical power to connected devices, such as IP phones, wireless access points, and network cameras, over the same Ethernet cable. This simplifies the deployment of PoE devices by eliminating the need for separate power supplies and power outlets.
• 2 Gigabit Ethernet Uplink Ports: The switch includes 2 Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports (10/100/1000 Mbps). These uplink ports are used to connect the switch to other network devices, such as core switches, routers, or aggregation switches. The inclusion of Gigabit uplinks provides higher bandwidth and faster data transfer rates, which are essential for maintaining high network performance and reducing potential bottlenecks.

2. Performance and Throughput

• Switching Capacity: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL offers a switching capacity of 56 Gbps. This specification indicates the maximum amount of data the switch can handle across all its ports simultaneously. A switching capacity of 56 Gbps is sufficient for managing high levels of network traffic and ensuring efficient data processing, which helps maintain smooth and reliable network operation.
• Forwarding Rate: The switch provides a forwarding rate of 41.6 million packets per second (Mpps) for 64-byte packets. This high forwarding rate enables the switch to process and forward packets quickly, which is crucial for minimizing latency and maintaining high performance, especially in environments with heavy packet traffic.

3. Layer 2 Features

• Layer 2 Switching: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL operates as a Layer 2 switch, handling Ethernet frames and providing essential features for network traffic management at the data link layer. It supports functionalities such as VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), and link aggregation, which are important for creating scalable and efficient network topologies.
• VLAN Support: The switch supports up to 256 VLANs. VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) allow administrators to segment the network into smaller, isolated broadcast domains, improving network management, security, and performance. Each VLAN can have its own policies and configurations, which helps in better control and organization of network traffic.

4. Quality of Service (QoS)

• Advanced QoS Features: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL provides advanced Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities that include traffic classification, prioritization, and marking. These features enable administrators to ensure that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency, optimizing network performance and enhancing the user experience.

5. Security Features

• Access Control Lists (ACLs): The switch supports standard and extended Access Control Lists (ACLs). ACLs are used to filter and control network traffic based on various criteria such as IP addresses, protocols, and ports. This functionality enhances network security by allowing administrators to define and enforce traffic policies that restrict or permit access based on specified rules.
• Port Security: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL includes port security features that allow administrators to manage and control access to network ports based on MAC addresses. By configuring port security, administrators can prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to the network, thereby reducing potential security risks.
• 802.1X Authentication: The switch supports 802.1X port-based network access control. This authentication protocol ensures that only authorized and authenticated devices are allowed to access the network, providing an additional layer of security and helping to prevent unauthorized access.

6. Management and Monitoring

• Cisco Smartports: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL supports Cisco Smartports, which simplify the configuration of network ports by applying predefined settings automatically based on the type of connected device. This feature streamlines network deployment and reduces the risk of configuration errors, making it easier to set up and manage the network.
• Command Line Interface (CLI): The switch provides a Command Line Interface (CLI) for in-depth configuration and management. The CLI offers a text-based interface that allows network administrators to perform detailed settings adjustments, scripting, and troubleshooting, giving them greater control over the switch’s operation.
• Web-Based Management: For ease of use, the switch includes a web-based graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI allows administrators to configure and monitor the switch using a web browser, providing a more intuitive approach compared to the CLI and simplifying day-to-day network management tasks.

7. Physical and Environmental Specifications

• Dimensions and Weight: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL is a 1U rack-mountable switch. It measures 1.73 x 17.5 x 10.8 inches (4.4 x 44.5 x 27.4 cm) and weighs approximately 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg). Its compact design allows for efficient use of rack space in data centers or network closets, helping to keep the network infrastructure organized.
• Operating Temperature: The switch operates effectively within a temperature range of 32 to 113°F (0 to 45°C). This temperature range is suitable for typical indoor environments, ensuring reliable performance under standard operating conditions.
• Storage Temperature: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL can be stored in temperatures ranging from -13 to 158°F (-25 to 70°C). This wider temperature range is designed to accommodate various storage conditions before the switch is deployed.
• Relative Humidity: The switch is designed to operate in relative humidity levels of 10% to 95% (non-condensing). This range supports operation in diverse indoor environments, including offices and server rooms.

8. Power Supply and Energy Efficiency

• Power Supply: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL features an internal AC power supply. It supports input voltages of 100-240V AC, making it compatible with standard power sources in various regions.
• Power Consumption: The switch has a maximum power consumption of 195 watts. This includes power consumption for the switch itself as well as the PoE functionality, which allows it to provide power to connected PoE devices. The design prioritizes energy efficiency to help lower operational costs.

9. Warranty and Support

• Cisco Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL comes with a limited lifetime hardware warranty. This warranty includes hardware replacement and provides 90 days of Cisco software support, ensuring ongoing support and reliability throughout the device’s lifecycle.
• Cisco Smart Net Total Care: For extended support, businesses can opt for Cisco Smart Net Total Care. This service offers 24/7 technical assistance, advanced hardware replacement, and proactive network diagnostics, helping to maintain network reliability and minimize downtime.

10. Applications and Use Cases

• Enterprise Networks: The WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL is ideal for use in enterprise networks where a high density of PoE-enabled devices is required. Its combination of Gigabit Ethernet ports, PoE support, and advanced management features makes it suitable for connecting various network devices and providing reliable connectivity.
• Branch Offices: This switch is well-suited for branch office deployments, offering essential features for reliable network connectivity and PoE support. It provides a good balance of performance and features for branch office environments, where high port density and PoE capabilities are needed.
• Access Layer Switch: In larger enterprise networks, the WS-C2960L-24PQ-LL can function as an access layer switch, connecting end-user devices to the network and supporting PoE-powered devices. It complements core and distribution layer switches by providing robust connectivity and management capabilities at the access layer.