Cisco Catalyst Switches: A Quick Overview for Enterprises
- server-parts.eu server-parts.eu
- Sep 27, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 3
Cisco Catalyst switches are a family of network switches designed for enterprise-grade networking. They are among the most widely used switches in business environments, powering local area networks (LANs) and handling traffic between devices efficiently.
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Cisco Catalyst Switches: Series Overview
Cisco Catalyst switches are divided into several series, each designed to specific use cases and performance levels:
Cisco Catalyst 1000 Series
Entry-level switches introduced in 2020
Model types generally include:
C1000-24T-4G, C1000-48T-4G
C1000-24P, C1000-48P (PoE versions)
C1000-24FP, C1000-48FP (full PoE versions)
Offers simple L2 switching, low cost, and web-based management
Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series
Successor to the older 2960-X line, launched around 2019–2020
Entry-level enterprise access switch with full DNA Center support
Stackable with redundancy and scalability options
Includes PoE/PoE+ for powering devices like phones and access points
Example models:
C9200-24T, C9200-48T (data only)
C9200-24P, C9200-48P (PoE)
C9200-24PXG, C9200-48PXG (multigigabit PoE+)
C9200L-24P, C9200L-48P, C9200L-24PXG, C9200L-48PXG
Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series
Enhanced version of the 9300 with higher uplink speeds
Stackable access switches built for large deployments
Supports uplinks up to 25G/40G
Example models:
C9300X-48U, C9300X-24UX, C9300X-48HX, C9300X-48TX
Cisco Catalyst 9400X Series
Updated modular switches designed for access and distribution
Provides scalability and high availability for larger networks
Example chassis and modules:
C9404X, C9407X, C9410X
Supervisor and line card modules available for different port densities
Cisco Catalyst 9500X Series
Fixed-core switches for aggregation and enterprise backbone
High throughput and advanced routing scale
Example models:
C9500X-24C, C9500X-48C
Cisco Catalyst 9600X Series
High-end modular core switches for large-scale enterprises
Designed for mission-critical campus cores
Example chassis and modules:
C9606X, C9610X
Multiple supervisor and line card options for customization
The Cisco Catalyst 1000, 9200, and 9300X are the most widely deployed models today, while the Cisco Catalyst 9400X, 9500X, and 9600X are higher-tier options built for large enterprise networks.
Cisco Catalyst Switches: Layer 2 vs. Layer 3 Switching
Layer 2 (L2): Manages switching within a single VLAN or subnet using MAC addresses.
Layer 3 (L3): Adds routing between VLANs and network segments, functioning similarly to a router.
Cisco Catalyst Switches: Key Features
Stacking: Many modern Catalyst models, such as the 9200 and 9300X, allow multiple switches to operate as one, improving scalability and redundancy
Power over Ethernet (PoE): Supplies power to devices like IP phones, access points, and cameras through Ethernet cables.
Management Options:
Web UI for smaller networks
CLI for detailed control by engineers
Cisco DNA Center for centralized, automated management in large networks
Security: Technologies like Cisco TrustSec provide encryption, authentication, and network segmentation.
Cisco Catalyst Switches: Support and Lifecycle
SmartNet: Cisco’s support program includes replacement options, software updates, and technical assistance with varying service levels.
End-of-Life (EoL): Cisco publishes timelines for when specific models are retired. Tracking these announcements helps avoid purchasing hardware that will soon lose support.
Software Updates: Regular updates to Cisco IOS ensure ongoing stability, security, and performance.
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