Cisco WS-C2960S-24TS-L Managed Ethernet Switch, 24 Ports, Gigabit Ethernet, SFP Uplink, Stackable, Energy Efficient

The Cisco WS-C2960S-24TS-L is a member of Cisco’s Catalyst 2960-S Series of switches, designed to deliver enterprise-class Layer 2 switching in a compact and energy-efficient package. This switch is ideal for small to medium-sized business networks, providing reliable connectivity, advanced security, and easy scalability. The WS-C2960S-24TS-L offers a balance of performance, functionality, and management capabilities, making it an excellent choice for both access and aggregation layers in campus networks. Below are the key details and features:

Key Features:

1. 24 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
   The switch is equipped with 24 Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) ports, enabling high-speed connections to devices such as computers, IP phones, and access points. These ports ensure fast and reliable connectivity, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications and data transfer across the network.
2. 4 SFP Uplink Ports
   The WS-C2960S-24TS-L includes four 1 Gigabit Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) uplink ports, providing flexibility for fiber or copper connections. These uplinks can be used for redundant connectivity to core switches, routers, or servers, allowing for extended reach in network architectures and ensuring high availability.
3. Layer 2 Switching
   As a Layer 2 switch, the WS-C2960S-24TS-L focuses on essential switching functions such as VLAN support, spanning tree, and Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP). It ensures efficient handling of local traffic within a LAN and provides features for managing data traffic, security, and quality of service (QoS).
4. Cisco FlexStack Technology (Optional)
   The switch supports Cisco FlexStack technology, allowing up to 4 switches to be stacked together with a combined bandwidth of 20 Gbps. This optional feature enables seamless scaling as network demands increase, and simplifies management by treating the stack as a single entity. FlexStack modules are sold separately.
5. Energy-Efficient Design
   Cisco’s EnergyWise technology, coupled with Energy-Efficient Ethernet (EEE), reduces power consumption during periods of low traffic. This energy efficiency is key to lowering operating costs, especially in larger deployments where multiple switches are in use.
6. Security and Network Protection
   The switch is equipped with advanced security features to protect the network from unauthorized access. This includes support for 802.1X authentication, port security, DHCP snooping, IP Source Guard, and Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI). These features help safeguard the integrity of network devices and data.
7. Simplified Management and Monitoring
   Managed via Cisco’s IOS software, the switch provides various management options, including CLI, web-based graphical user interface, and SNMP. Cisco’s Smart Install feature allows for zero-touch deployment, making it easier to roll out switches in new network setups.
8. Quality of Service (QoS)
   QoS functionality ensures that critical applications, such as voice and video, are given the bandwidth they require for smooth operation. The WS-C2960S-24TS-L supports multiple queues per port, and traffic is classified based on protocols, IP addresses, and other criteria.

Applications:

• Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses
• Suitable for access layer deployments in enterprise and campus networks
• Excellent for environments requiring energy efficiency and cost-effective scalability

Benefits:

• Scalability: With optional FlexStack support, you can scale your network as your business grows without significant complexity.
• Energy Efficiency: Cisco EnergyWise and EEE technologies reduce power consumption, helping businesses reduce operational costs.
• Security: Advanced security protocols keep your network safe from unauthorized access and data breaches.
• High Performance: Gigabit Ethernet speeds and high switching capacity ensure smooth handling of network traffic, making it suitable for bandwidth-heavy applications.

The Cisco WS-C2960S-24TS-L is designed for businesses that require a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and secure solution for managing a growing network. With robust Layer 2 switching, flexible uplink options, and stackability, this switch is perfect for those seeking reliability and scalability in a dynamic networking environment.