Cisco Catalyst C9300-24S-E 9300 24-Port 1GE SFP NETWORK-E Switch

Overview

1. Physical and Port Specifications

Form Factor and Design

• Form Factor: The C9300-24S-E is a 1U (one rack unit) switch, making it compatible with standard 19-inch racks. This compact form factor allows efficient use of rack space, which is ideal for data centers, network closets, and server rooms where space is at a premium.
• Build Quality: The switch is built with a durable chassis designed to withstand the rigors of continuous operation. It is engineered to handle high traffic volumes and maintain reliable performance, ensuring it can cope with the demands of enterprise-level networking.

Port Configuration

• 24 x 10-Gigabit SFP+ Ports: The C9300-24S-E provides 24 fixed 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports. These ports use Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+) transceivers, which offer high-speed connectivity and flexible options for network uplinks and interconnections. The 10G SFP+ ports enable high-bandwidth data transfer and are suitable for connecting to other switches, routers, and high-speed storage systems.

2. Performance and Scalability

Switching Capacity and Throughput

• Switching Capacity: The switch is designed with a high switching capacity, which ensures it can handle substantial volumes of network traffic efficiently. This capacity supports the processing and routing of large amounts of data without impacting performance, making it suitable for high-traffic environments.
• Forwarding Rate: The C9300-24S-E offers a high forwarding rate, allowing for fast packet processing and forwarding. This capability is essential for maintaining low latency and ensuring smooth performance for applications requiring high-speed data transfer, such as video streaming and large file transfers.

Stacking Technology

• StackWise-480 Technology: The switch supports Cisco’s StackWise-480 technology, which allows up to eight switches to be stacked together. Stacking creates a single logical unit, simplifying management and configuration. This technology enhances network scalability, reliability, and redundancy by distributing traffic across the stacked units and providing failover capabilities in case of switch failures.

3. Advanced Networking Features

Security Features

• Comprehensive Security Suite: The C9300-24S-E includes a suite of advanced security features to protect the network and ensure data integrity. Key security capabilities include:
  • 802.1X Authentication: Provides port-based access control to ensure that only authenticated devices can connect to the network. This helps in preventing unauthorized access and enhancing overall network security.
  • Cisco TrustSec: Implements role-based access control and segmentation to enforce security policies based on user roles and device types. Cisco TrustSec helps in creating a segmented network environment where security policies can be applied more effectively.
  • MACsec Encryption: Offers encryption for data transmitted across the network, securing communication and protecting against unauthorized data access. This encryption is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information.
• Policy-Based Access Control: The switch supports granular policy and access control mechanisms, allowing network administrators to define and enforce security policies based on various criteria such as user roles, devices, or applications. This flexibility aids in creating a secure network environment and ensuring compliance with organizational security requirements.

Quality of Service (QoS)

• Advanced QoS Features: The C9300-24S-E features sophisticated Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities to prioritize and manage network traffic effectively. QoS mechanisms ensure that high-priority applications, such as VoIP and video conferencing, receive the necessary bandwidth and minimal latency. This functionality is vital for maintaining high service quality and optimizing network performance for different types of traffic.

4. Management and Automation

Cisco DNA Center Integration

• Centralized Network Management: The C9300-24S-E integrates with Cisco DNA Center, providing a centralized platform for managing, monitoring, and automating network operations. Cisco DNA Center simplifies network management by offering tools for configuration, policy management, and troubleshooting.
• Automation and Analytics: Cisco DNA Center supports automation features such as zero-touch provisioning and policy-based configuration. It also provides real-time network analytics and insights, allowing IT teams to proactively manage network performance, detect potential issues, and optimize network resources.

Cisco IOS XE

• Operating System: The switch runs on Cisco IOS XE, a modular and programmable operating system. IOS XE supports a wide range of APIs and automation tools, which enables flexible network configuration and integration with third-party applications. The operating system enhances the adaptability of the switch and simplifies management tasks.

5. Reliability and Redundancy

Power Supplies and Cooling

• Power Supply Options: The C9300-24S-E features a fixed power supply design. While it does not support redundant power supplies in this model, it is engineered to provide reliable power to the switch and connected devices. For higher redundancy and availability, other models or configurations with redundant power options may be considered.
• Cooling System: The switch includes internal cooling fans designed to maintain optimal operating temperatures. The cooling system ensures that the switch remains within safe temperature limits, preventing overheating and maintaining stable performance.

6. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

EnergyWise Technology

• Power Efficiency: The C9300-24S-E incorporates Cisco EnergyWise technology to manage and reduce power consumption. EnergyWise monitors the energy usage of connected devices and optimizes power efficiency, contributing to lower operational costs and supporting environmental sustainability goals.

7. Use Cases and Applications

Enterprise Networks

• Access Layer Deployment: The C9300-24S-E is well-suited for deployment in the access layer of enterprise networks. It provides reliable and high-speed connectivity for end-user devices and supports high-speed uplinks to core network infrastructure. Its performance and scalability make it ideal for environments with high network demands.

Data Centers

• Data Center Connectivity: The switch is also appropriate for data center environments where high-speed connectivity and efficient traffic handling are crucial. The 10G SFP+ ports provide the necessary bandwidth for interconnecting servers and storage systems, supporting data-intensive applications.

High-Demand Applications

• High-Bandwidth Applications: For environments that require high-bandwidth connectivity, such as video streaming or large-scale data transfers, the C9300-24S-E offers the performance and scalability needed to handle these applications effectively.