Description
Unveiling the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 Catalyst 4506 Bundle Chassis
The WS-C4506-S4-AP50 Catalyst 4506 Bundle is a type of network switch. It belongs to the Catalyst series, specifically the Catalyst 4500 series, which is produced by Cisco Systems, a well-known multinational technology company. This managed switch is designed to facilitate network connectivity and management within a computer network. The WS-C4506-S4-AP50 bundle offers various features and capabilities, including Layer 4 manageability, PoE (Power over Ethernet) ports, and multiple slots for expansion modules.
Overview of the Catalyst 4506 Switch Chassis
The WS-C4506-S4-AP50 switch chassis is the physical housing or frame that contains the internal components of the network switch. It provides the structural support and framework for the switch’s operation. The Catalyst 4506 chassis is designed to accommodate up to 6 slots for inserting various modules and components. These slots allow for flexibility and scalability in configuring the switch to meet the specific needs of a network environment.
Understanding Layer 4 Manageability
Layer 4 manageability refers to the ability of the network switch to operate at the transport layer (Layer 4) of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model. The OSI model is a conceptual framework used to understand and standardize the functions of a networking system. The transport layer is responsible for end-to-end communication and ensures the reliable delivery of data between hosts.
By offering Layer 4 manageability, the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 switch can perform advanced functions such as traffic prioritization, load balancing, and firewall services based on information from Layer 4 protocols such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol). This capability enhances the efficiency, performance, and security of the network infrastructure.
Features of the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 Bundle
- 6 Slots Switch Chassis: The WS-C4506-S4-AP50 bundle comes with a chassis that has 6 slots, allowing for the insertion of various modules and components to expand the switch’s functionality.
- PoE Port (Power over Ethernet): This feature enables the switch to deliver power to connected devices, such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras, through the Ethernet cables. PoE eliminates the need for separate power sources for these devices, simplifying installation and reducing costs.
- 1x 1000AC: This indicates that the bundle includes a power supply unit capable of delivering 1000 watts of alternating current (AC) power. The power supply unit provides the necessary electrical power to operate the switch and connected devices.
- 1x S4: The “S4” designation likely refers to a specific module or supervisor engine included in the bundle. Supervisor engines are responsible for managing the overall operation of the switch, including forwarding packets, implementing network policies, and monitoring system health.
- 1x WS-X4306-GB: This is a line card module that provides additional Gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting devices to the network. Gigabit Ethernet offers high-speed connectivity, making it suitable for applications that require large amounts of data transfer, such as multimedia streaming and file sharing.
- 1x 4402-50: This likely refers to another module or component included in the bundle, although specific details about its functionality are not provided.
Benefits of the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 Catalyst 4506 Bundle
- Scalability: The WS-C4506-S4-AP50 bundle offers scalability with its 6-slot chassis, allowing organizations to expand their network infrastructure as needed by adding additional modules and components.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support: With PoE capability, the switch can power compatible devices over the Ethernet connection, reducing the need for additional power outlets and simplifying installation.
- Layer 4 Manageability: Layer 4 manageability enhances network performance and security by enabling advanced traffic management and control functions based on Layer 4 protocol information.
- High-Speed Connectivity: The inclusion of Gigabit Ethernet ports ensures high-speed connectivity for devices connected to the network, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications and improving overall network performance.
- Reliability: Cisco Systems is known for producing high-quality networking equipment, and the Catalyst 4506 bundle is no exception. Its robust design and feature set contribute to reliable and stable network operation.
Applications of the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 Catalyst 4506 Bundle
- Enterprise Networks: The WS-C4506-S4-AP50 bundle is suitable for use in enterprise networks, where scalability, reliability, and advanced features are essential for supporting a large number of users and devices.
- Data Centers: In data center environments, the switch can provide the necessary connectivity and management capabilities to support critical applications and services running on servers and other network infrastructure.
- Education Institutions: Schools and universities can benefit from the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 bundle’s scalability and PoE support to build robust network infrastructure for classrooms, labs, and administrative offices.
- Healthcare Facilities: With its reliability and advanced features, the switch is well-suited for healthcare facilities, where secure and efficient communication is vital for delivering patient care and managing medical records.
- Government Organizations: Government agencies can deploy the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 bundle to build secure and resilient networks for various purposes, including national security, public safety, and administrative operations.
Advanced Switching Capabilities
The Cisco Catalyst 4506-S4-AP50 is a modular switch chassis that offers advanced switching capabilities for network administrators. It has 6 module slots and supports up to 9 RSP (Route Switch Processor) modules, which provide the control plane and data plane functions for the switch. The switch supports multiple types of line cards, including Gigabit Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces. It also supports stacking, which allows multiple switches to be connected to form a single logical switch, providing increased resiliency and scalability. The switch runs the Cisco IOS operating system and supports advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS), Security, and Network Management. Additionally, the switch is designed to be energy efficient and is compliant with the Energy-Efficient Ethernet (EEE) standard.
Interoperability and Compatibility
The Cisco Catalyst 4506-S4-AP50 switch chassis is designed to be interoperable and compatible with a variety of network devices and technologies. Some key points regarding interoperability and compatibility include:
- Industry Standards: The switch supports various industry standards, including IEEE 802.3 for Ethernet, IEEE 802.1Q for VLAN tagging, and IEEE 802.1X for network access control.
- Interoperability with Other Cisco Devices: The switch is designed to work seamlessly with other Cisco devices, including routers, switches, and wireless access points. This allows administrators to build a unified network infrastructure using Cisco products.
- Compatibility with Third-Party Devices: The switch is also compatible with third-party devices, such as servers, storage systems, and security appliances. This allows administrators to build a heterogeneous network infrastructure that includes both Cisco and non-Cisco devices.
- Software Compatibility: The switch runs the Cisco IOS operating system, which is compatible with a variety of software features and applications, including Quality of Service (QoS), Security, and Network Management.
General Information about Cisco WS-C4506-S4-AP50 6 Slots Switch Chassis
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-C4506-S4-AP50
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 4500
- Product Model: 4506-S4-AP50
- Product Name: Catalyst 4506-S4-AP50 Switch Chassis
- Product Type: Switch Chassis
I/O Expansions of Catalyst Switch Chassis
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 6
- Expansion Slot Type: Supervisor Engine
- Expansion Slot Type: Switching Module
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 4
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
- Management Protocols:
- RMON
- Telnet
- SNMP v1, v2c
- CLI
- VLAN
- QoS
- CiscoView graphical device management
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: Yes
- Input Voltage:
- 110 V AC
- 220 V AC
- Power Source: Power Supply
- Redundant Power Supply: Yes
Outine, the WS-C4506-S4-AP50 Catalyst 4506 Bundle is a versatile and feature-rich network switch that offers scalability, reliability, and advanced management capabilities. With its 6-slot chassis, PoE support, Layer 4 manageability, and high-speed connectivity, it is well-suited for a wide range of applications in enterprise, data center, education, healthcare, and government environments. By investing in this bundle, organizations can build robust and efficient network infrastructures to support their growing connectivity needs and business objectives.
