Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L 48 Ports Managed Switch Layer 2 Refurbished

In the world of networking, Cisco has long been a trusted name. When it comes to reliable and high-performance network switches, the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L is a standout choice. This managed switch offers 48 ports with Layer 2 support, along with 4 SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) slots. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L managed switch, exploring its features, benefits, technical specifications, and use cases. Whether you are an IT professional, a network administrator, or simply someone interested in understanding network equipment, this guide will provide you with the insights you need.

Before we dive into the specifics of the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L, let's establish a foundational understanding of what a managed switch is.

A managed switch is a crucial piece of network infrastructure that connects devices within a local area network (LAN). Unlike unmanaged switches, which are often referred to as "dumb" switches, managed switches offer advanced control and monitoring capabilities.

Managed switches allow network administrators to configure, monitor, and optimize network traffic, ensuring efficient data flow and network security. These switches offer features like Quality of Service (QoS), Virtual LAN (VLAN) support, and more, making them indispensable in complex network environments.

The Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L is a remarkable addition to Cisco's extensive range of managed switches. Let's break down its name to understand its key characteristics:

• Cisco: Cisco Systems, Inc. is a global technology company renowned for its networking hardware, software, and services. Cisco switches are widely recognized for their quality and reliability.
• C1000FE: This indicates that the switch is part of Cisco's Catalyst 1000 series. The Catalyst 1000 series is known for providing high-performance, cost-effective network solutions.
• 48T: This signifies that the switch offers 48 ports, which are essential for connecting a multitude of devices to the network.
• 4G: The "4G" in the name suggests that the switch supports Gigabit Ethernet, indicating fast and reliable data transfer speeds.
• L: The "L" denotes that this switch supports Layer 2 functionality. We'll explore Layer 2 in more detail in the next section.

Layer 2, also known as the Data Link Layer, is an essential component of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which defines networking protocols and their functions. Layer 2 is responsible for the data framing and transmission over the physical medium, ensuring that data packets reach their intended destinations.

In the context of a network switch like the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L, Layer 2 support offers several key advantages:

• Switching Functionality: Layer 2 switches work at the data link layer, allowing them to make forwarding decisions based on the MAC (Media Access Control) address of devices. This results in faster and more efficient data transmission within the LAN.
• VLAN Support: Virtual LANs (VLANs) are a critical tool for network segmentation and organization. Layer 2 switches can create and manage VLANs, enhancing network security and traffic control.
• Broadcast Control: Layer 2 switches filter and control broadcast traffic, preventing network congestion and improving overall network performance.
• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): STP is a Layer 2 protocol that prevents network loops. Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L and other Layer 2 switches support STP to ensure network reliability and redundancy.

The Layer 2 support in the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L makes it an ideal choice for businesses and organizations that require efficient, high-performance LANs. With 48 ports available for connecting devices, this switch can facilitate seamless data transfer within a network while offering the security and control features associated with Layer 2.

• MAC Address Learning: The switch learns and stores the MAC addresses of devices connected to its ports, enabling it to make informed forwarding decisions.
• VLAN Configuration: Network administrators can create, configure, and manage VLANs to segment the network for improved traffic control and security.
• Broadcast Storm Control: This feature prevents excessive broadcast traffic, which can otherwise lead to network congestion and degradation in performance.
• Link Aggregation: The switch supports link aggregation, which combines multiple physical links into a single logical link to increase bandwidth and redundancy.
• STP Support: Spanning Tree Protocol is a fundamental Layer 2 feature that ensures network loop prevention, enhancing network stability.

Cisco's Layer 2 support in the C1000FE-48T-4G-L ensures that your network operates efficiently, securely, and reliably, making it a solid choice for businesses of all sizes.

The Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L comes with a range of features that cater to the needs of modern networks. Let's explore some of its notable features:

With 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, this switch provides ample connectivity for a variety of devices, including computers, printers, servers, and more. Gigabit Ethernet ensures high-speed data transfer within the LAN.

4 SFP Slots

In addition to the 48 Ethernet ports, the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L includes 4 SFP slots. These slots are ideal for connecting to fiber optic or other high-speed connections, offering flexibility in network design.

Layer 2 Support

As discussed earlier, Layer 2 support is a standout feature of this switch. It enables advanced network control, VLAN segmentation, and efficient data transmission.

Quality of Service (QoS)

QoS features allow network administrators to prioritize specific types of traffic, ensuring that critical data like voice and video receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency.

Energy-Efficient Design

Cisco places a strong emphasis on energy efficiency. The C1000FE-48T-4G-L is designed to consume less power while maintaining optimal performance, helping reduce energy costs and environmental impact.

Secure Network Access

The switch offers robust security features, including port security, MAC address filtering, and IEEE 802.1X support. These features protect the network from unauthorized access and potential threats.

Benefits of Using Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L

The Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L isn't just a feature-rich switch; it also offers several tangible benefits:

Enhanced Network Performance

The combination of Gigabit Ethernet ports, Layer 2 support, and QoS features ensures that data flows smoothly, meeting the demands of modern applications and services.

Scalability

With 48 ports and 4 SFP slots, this switch is highly scalable, making it suitable for businesses of varying sizes. You can easily expand your network as your organization grows.

Energy Efficiency

Cisco's energy-efficient design not only saves on operational costs but also aligns with environmentally responsible practices.

Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs)

SMBs often require a reliable and cost-effective network infrastructure. The Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L, with its 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, is an excellent choice for connecting workstations, printers, servers, and other devices in an SMB environment. Its Layer 2 support enables efficient traffic management, and its security features help protect sensitive business data.

Education Institutions

Schools and universities rely on robust network infrastructure to support various educational applications and services. The switch's scalability, energy efficiency, and advanced Layer 2 features make it suitable for educational institutions. It can segment networks for different departments, prioritize educational resources, and ensure smooth video conferencing and online learning experiences.

Retail Environments

Retail businesses benefit from a network that supports point-of-sale systems, inventory management, and customer Wi-Fi. The Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L can handle the diverse networking needs of retail environments, with its ability to connect numerous devices and prioritize payment transactions and customer services.

Hospitality and Entertainment

Hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues rely on robust networks to offer guests internet access, entertainment services, and communication options. The switch's ease of management and security features ensure a seamless guest experience while protecting the network from unauthorized access.

In these common use cases, the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L shines as a versatile and dependable managed switch that meets specific industry and organization needs. Its combination of features, scalability, and security make it a compelling choice for a wide range of applications.

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model Number or SKU# C1000FE-48T-4G-L
• Product Type: Ethernet Switch

• Number of Total Expansion Slots: 4
• Product Family: Catalyst 1000
• Stack Port: Yes
• Media Type Supported: Optical Fiber, Twisted Pair
• Total Number of Network Ports: 48
• Expansion Slot Type: SFP (mini-GBIC)
• Form Factor: Rack-mountable
• Power Consumption: 35 W
• Power Source: Power Supply
• Layer Supported: 2
• Compatible Rack Unit: 1U
• Number of Power Supplies Installed: 1
• Number of SFP Slots: 4
• Modular: Yes
• Uplink Port: Yes
• Shared SFP Slot: Yes

• 48 x Fast Ethernet Network
• 2 x Gigabit Ethernet TP/SFP Combo
• 2 x Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Slot

In summary, the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L is a powerful and versatile managed switch that brings numerous features and benefits to a wide range of network environments. Its 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 4 SFP slots, Layer 2 support, and advanced security features make it a valuable asset for businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and various other industries.

The switch's scalability, energy efficiency, and ease of management add to its appeal, making it suitable for organizations of different sizes and needs. With proper installation, configuration, and support, the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L can serve as the backbone of a reliable and secure network.

Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing network infrastructure or establish a new network, the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L is a robust choice that aligns with Cisco's reputation for quality and innovation in the field of networking.

Investing in a managed switch like the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L can lead to improved network performance, enhanced security, and the flexibility to adapt to the evolving demands of modern networking. As technology continues to advance, having a reliable and feature-rich network switch is an invaluable asset for any organization.

As you explore the world of networking and consider the best solutions for your specific needs, remember that the Cisco C1000FE-48T-4G-L managed switch offers a combination of features and capabilities that can make a significant difference in the efficiency and reliability of your network infrastructure.