Description
Product Outline of the Cisco N55-M16UP 16 Ports Unified Module
The Cisco N55-M16UP is a high-performance expansion module that seamlessly integrates with Cisco networking equipment. Its primary function is to extend the networking capabilities of compatible devices, providing an additional 16 ports for Fiber Channel
10 Gigabit Ethernet Switching. This expansion module is built with the latest technology to ensure reliability and efficiency in data transfer.
Understanding the Basics of 10 Gigabit Ethernet FCoE Module
Fiber Channel and Ethernet Switching
Before we dive into the specifics of the Cisco N55-M16UP, let’s establish a foundational understanding of two crucial concepts: Fiber Channel and Ethernet Switching.
Fiber Channel:
Fiber Channel is a high-speed network technology primarily used for storage area networks (SANs). It enables the rapid transfer of data between storage systems and servers, making it essential in modern data center environments.
Ethernet Switching: Ethernet Switching is a fundamental networking technology that allows devices within a local area network (LAN) to communicate efficiently. Switches play a pivotal role in directing data traffic and ensuring optimal connectivity.
Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+)
The Cisco N55-M16UP is equipped with Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+) ports. SFP+ is a compact, hot-swappable transceiver used for both telecommunication and data communication applications. These modules provide flexibility and scalability to network administrators by supporting various types of optical and copper connections.
Unified 16 Ports Expansion Module
One of the standout features of the Cisco N55-M16UP is its Unified 16 Ports Expansion Module. This module significantly expands the connectivity options of Cisco Nexus switches, offering 16 ports for seamless integration into existing networks.
Enhanced Flexibility
The Cisco N55-M16UP boasts hot-swappable functionality, a critical feature for networks that require continuous operation. Hot-swappability allows administrators to replace or add modules without shutting down the entire system, minimizing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted network services.
Powering High-Speed Connectivity
With 10 Gigabit Ethernet support, the Cisco N55-M16UP delivers high-speed connectivity, meeting the demands of modern data-intensive applications. This capability is particularly crucial in environments where large volumes of data need to be transferred rapidly, such as data centers and enterprise networks.
Fiber Channel
The integration of Fiber Channel capabilities further enhances the versatility of the Cisco N55-M16UP. This makes it an ideal choice for organizations with storage-centric requirements, enabling seamless communication between storage devices and the broader network infrastructure.
SFP+ Compatibility
The SFP+ compatibility of the Cisco N55-M16UP ensures that it can support a variety of SFP+ transceivers, allowing administrators to choose the most suitable modules for their specific networking needs. This flexibility is valuable in adapting to changing network requirements and optimizing performance.
Network Switching Capabilities
As a part of Cisco’s Nexus series, the N55-M16UP inherits the advanced network switching capabilities that the brand is renowned for. This includes features such as virtual LAN (VLAN) support, quality of service (QoS) prioritization, and advanced security protocols, providing a robust foundation for building a secure and efficient network infrastructure.
Deployment Scenarios
Data Centers
The Cisco N55-M16UP finds its natural home in data center environments where high-performance networking is essential. Its 10 Gigabit Ethernet support, hot-swappable design, and Fiber Channel integration make it well-suited for handling the rigorous demands of data center operations.
Enterprise Networks
In large enterprises with diverse networking requirements, the Cisco N55-M16UP serves as a reliable expansion module. Its compatibility with SFP+ transceivers and seamless integration with Cisco Nexus switches make it a versatile solution for enhancing connectivity within the enterprise.
Storage Area Networks (SANs)
Given its Fiber Channel capabilities, the Cisco N55-M16UP plays a pivotal role in SANs. It facilitates the rapid and efficient transfer of data between storage devices and servers, contributing to the overall performance and reliability of storage infrastructure.
Benefits
The N55-M16UP Cisco Unified 16 Ports Expansion Module is an expansion module for Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) that provides an additional 16 ports for IP telephony devices. The main benefits of this module include:
- Increased capacity: The module allows for the addition of up to 16 additional IP telephony devices, allowing for a larger deployment of IP phones and other devices.
- Scalability: As the business grows, you can add more modules to expand the capacity of the system. Scalability is a critical consideration for businesses anticipating growth or changes in their networking requirements. The Cisco N55-M16UP addresses this need by providing a scalable solution with its 16 unified ports. As the demand for network resources increases, organizations can easily expand their infrastructure by adding more of these modules, ensuring a smooth transition to accommodate evolving business needs.
- Quality of Service (QoS): The module supports Quality of Service (QoS) features such as Differentiated Services (DiffServ) and Multi-Level Precedence and Preemption (MLPP).
- Compatibility: The module is compatible with Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) version 10.5 and later and supports Cisco IP Phone 8800 and 7800 series.
- Enhanced Flexibility: The ability to support both Fiber Channel and 10 Gigabit Ethernet switching grants organizations enhanced flexibility in designing their network architecture. This flexibility is especially valuable in heterogeneous environments where different connectivity standards coexist. The N55-M16UP simplifies network design decisions, allowing administrators to adapt to diverse connectivity requirements without the need for extensive overhauls.
- Improved Reliability: Reliability is a cornerstone of any robust networking solution. The hot-swappable design of the Cisco N55-M16UP contributes significantly to the overall reliability of the network. By enabling administrators to perform maintenance tasks and upgrades without disrupting ongoing operations, this expansion module minimizes the risk of downtime and ensures continuous access to critical network resources.
Resiliency and High Availability
The N55-M16UP Cisco Unified 16 Ports Expansion Module is a device that can be added to a Cisco Unified Communications Manager (UCM) system to provide additional ports for connecting telephones, devices, and other communication equipment. The module is designed for resiliency and high availability, which means that it is built to provide continuous and reliable operation in case of failures or disruptions. This can include features such as redundant power supplies, redundant network connections, and automatic failover to ensure that communication is maintained even in the event of a failure. Overall this module is designed for business continuity, scalability, and reliability.
Main Information for the Cisco N55-M16UP Expansion Module
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# N55-M16UP
- Product Type: Expansion Module
Technical Information
- Form Factor: Hot-swappable
- Application/Usage: Switching Network & Data Networking
- Expansion Slot Type: SFP+
Data Link Protocol
- Supports Gigabit Ethernet, 10 Gigabit Ethernet, Fibre Channel Over Ethernet (FCoE), and 8GB Fibre Channel
Compatibility
- Nexus 5548 Storage Solutions Bundle, 5548P, 5548UP, 5548UP Storage Solutions Bundle, 5596UP, and 5596UP Storage Solutions Bundle
Finally, the Cisco N55-M16UP Fiber Channel 10 Gigabit Ethernet Switching Network Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+) Hot-swappable Unified 16 Ports Expansion Module is a powerful tool for organizations seeking to enhance their network infrastructure. With its 10 Gigabit Ethernet capability, hot-swappable design, and unified 16 ports, it addresses the needs of diverse environments, from data centers to remote offices.
The benefits of increased port density, scalability, enhanced performance, seamless integration, and cost-effective expansion make the N55-M16UP a valuable addition to Cisco’s networking solutions.
As technology continues to evolve, the Cisco N55-M16UP stands as a testament to the adaptability and innovation within the networking industry. Its role in providing high-speed, reliable connectivity positions it as a key player in the ever-expanding landscape of modern networking solutions.
