Cisco Catalyst switches are a family of network switches designed for enterprise-grade networking.
I Cisco Catalyst: one of the most popular enterprise switch families.
They are widely used in business environments to create local area networks (LANs) and manage traffic between various devices.
Series Overview of Cisco Catalyst Switches
Cisco Catalyst switches are divided into different series based on their performance, features, and use cases:
Catalyst 1000 Series:
Ideal for small businesses or branch offices.
Low cost, basic features.
Managed through a web interface.
Simple Layer 2 (L2) functionality with some Layer 3 (L3) capabilities.
Catalyst 9000 Series:
Most advanced, designed for enterprise environments.
High performance and support for software-defined networking (SDN).
Integrates with Cisco DNA (Digital Network Architecture) for automation and monitoring.
Offers advanced security features, including network segmentation and security policies.
9000 sub-models:
9300: Stackable access switches, high scalability.
9400: Modular, designed for access and distribution.
9500: High-performance aggregation and core switches.
9600: Core and distribution in large enterprise networks.
Catalyst 2960-X/XR Series:
Older but very popular for mid-sized businesses.
Offers L2 and some L3 functionality.
Stackable to increase port capacity and flexibility.
Catalyst 3850 Series:
Stackable, L3 features.
Built for high-speed access and aggregation, supporting large-scale deployments.
Layer 2 vs. Layer 3 Switching
Cisco Catalyst switches are typically categorized by their ability to handle different layers of networking:
Layer 2 (L2): Handles switching within the same network segment (VLAN). These switches primarily manage MAC addresses and traffic within the same subnet.
Layer 3 (L3): Can handle routing between different VLANs and network segments. Catalyst switches with L3 features are like routers and are used in environments with multiple VLANs or network segments.
Key Features to Consider
Stacking: Many Catalyst switches (e.g., 9300 and 2960-X) support stacking, allowing you to connect multiple switches to function as a single unit, providing more ports and redundancy.
Power over Ethernet (PoE): Available on most models, PoE allows switches to power connected devices like IP phones and access points directly through Ethernet cables.
Management Options:
Web UI: For smaller networks or easier management, simpler web-based interfaces can manage switches.
CLI: Command-line interface is commonly used by network engineers for more granular control.
Cisco DNA Center: Advanced SDN management for large networks, allowing centralized automation and monitoring.
Advanced Security Features: Cisco Catalyst switches offer robust security, such as encryption, authentication, and segmentation using technologies like Cisco TrustSec.
Support and Lifecycle Management
SmartNet: Cisco’s hardware and software support program offers next-business-day or even 24x7x4 support options, including updates and replacements.
End-of-Life: Cisco releases announcements about when models go end-of-sale (EoS) and end-of-support (EoS). It’s essential to track the lifecycle of the switch to avoid investing in soon-to-be-obsolete models.
Software Updates: Keep switches updated with Cisco IOS, their network operating system, for security and performance improvements.
Comments