Cisco Catalyst C9300-48P-E 48-Port PoE+ L3 RJ-45 Network Switch

Overview

1. Physical and Port Specifications

Form Factor and Design

• Form Factor: The C9300-48P-E features a 1U (one rack unit) form factor, making it suitable for mounting in standard 19-inch racks. This compact design allows for efficient use of rack space, which is essential in environments with limited space, such as data centers or network closets. The 1U height helps maximize the use of rack space while accommodating extensive connectivity options.
• Build Quality: The switch is built with a durable and robust chassis designed to withstand continuous operation and high network traffic. Its construction ensures reliable performance and long-term durability. The design also includes effective cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal operating temperatures, thereby enhancing the longevity of the hardware.

Port Configuration

• 48 x Gigabit Ethernet Ports: The C9300-48P-E is equipped with 48 fixed 1 Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45) ports. These ports are used for connecting various network devices, such as computers, printers, and IP phones. The Gigabit Ethernet ports provide sufficient bandwidth for typical enterprise applications, balancing performance and cost.
• Power over Ethernet (PoE): All 48 Ethernet ports support Power over Ethernet (PoE+). This feature allows the switch to deliver power to connected devices, such as IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras, over the same Ethernet cable used for data transmission. PoE+ provides up to 30 watts of power per port, making it suitable for powering a wide range of devices without requiring separate power sources.

2. Performance and Scalability

Switching Capacity and Throughput

• Switching Capacity: The C9300-48P-E offers a high switching capacity, which allows it to handle large volumes of network traffic efficiently. This high capacity ensures that the switch can manage and forward data packets quickly, supporting environments with high network demands and ensuring smooth performance even under heavy load.
• Forwarding Rate: The switch provides a high forwarding rate, essential for minimizing latency and ensuring rapid data transfer. This capability supports performance-critical applications and services, such as video conferencing and large file transfers, by maintaining low latency and high-speed data processing.

Stacking Technology

• StackWise-480 Technology: The C9300-48P-E supports Cisco’s StackWise-480 technology, enabling the stacking of up to eight switches. Stacking allows multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit, simplifying network management and configuration. This technology enhances scalability by making it easy to expand network capacity and provides redundancy by distributing traffic across stacked units. StackWise-480 also offers failover capabilities, improving network reliability and uptime in case of switch failure.

3. Advanced Networking Features

Security Features

• 802.1X Authentication: The switch supports 802.1X port-based network access control, which ensures that only authenticated devices can access the network. This feature enhances network security by requiring devices to authenticate before gaining network connectivity, preventing unauthorized access.
• Cisco TrustSec: Cisco TrustSec provides role-based access control and network segmentation based on user roles and device types. This feature allows for the creation of granular security policies and segmentation of network traffic, improving overall network security by isolating different types of traffic and enforcing access control.
• MACsec Encryption: The C9300-48P-E supports MACsec (Media Access Control Security) encryption, which provides data encryption for network traffic. This feature ensures that sensitive information transmitted across the network is protected from eavesdropping and tampering, enhancing data security.

Quality of Service (QoS)

• Advanced QoS Capabilities: The switch includes advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features that help prioritize and manage network traffic effectively. QoS mechanisms ensure that critical applications, such as VoIP and video conferencing, receive the necessary bandwidth and minimal latency. This capability helps maintain high service quality and optimizes network performance by managing traffic based on application requirements and priority.

4. Management and Automation

Cisco DNA Center Integration

• Centralized Network Management: The C9300-48P-E integrates with Cisco DNA Center, providing a centralized platform for network management, monitoring, and automation. Cisco DNA Center offers tools for simplified configuration, policy management, and troubleshooting, making it easier for IT teams to manage the network and reduce administrative overhead.
• 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, identify potential issues, and optimize network resources. These capabilities enhance operational efficiency and enable data-driven decision-making.

Cisco IOS XE

• Operating System: The switch runs on Cisco IOS XE, a modular and programmable operating system. IOS XE supports various APIs and automation tools, allowing for flexible network configuration and integration with third-party applications. The operating system enhances the switch’s adaptability and simplifies network management tasks by providing a consistent and programmable platform.

5. Reliability and Redundancy

Power Supplies and Cooling

• Power Supply Options: The C9300-48P-E features a fixed power supply design. While this model does not support redundant power supplies, it provides reliable power to the switch and connected devices. For environments requiring higher redundancy and availability, alternative models with redundant power options are available.
• Cooling System: The switch includes internal cooling fans designed to maintain optimal operating temperatures. The cooling system helps prevent overheating by ensuring that the switch operates within safe temperature limits, maintaining stable performance and extending hardware lifespan.

6. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

EnergyWise Technology

• Power Efficiency: The C9300-48P-E incorporates Cisco EnergyWise technology, which helps 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. This technology allows organizations to minimize their energy footprint while maintaining effective network operations.

7. Use Cases and Applications

Enterprise Networks

• Access Layer Deployment: The C9300-48P-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 and growing traffic loads.

Branch Offices

• Branch Office Connectivity: The switch is also appropriate for branch office environments, offering reliable network access and high-speed uplink capabilities. Its features support the expansion of branch networks and provide high-performance connectivity for remote locations.

Small to Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)

• Cost-Effective Solution: For small to medium-sized businesses, the C9300-48P-E offers a cost-effective solution that combines essential networking features with high performance. Its fixed port configuration and advanced capabilities make it a versatile choice for SMBs looking to enhance their network infrastructure.