Description
Product overview for the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L
In today’s digital age, computer networks are the backbone of communication and data sharing in businesses and organizations. To ensure smooth and efficient network operations, it’s crucial to have reliable and high-performance network switches. One such switch is the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L, a 48-port managed switch with 4 Gigabit SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) ports. This switch is known for its exceptional performance, flexibility, and rack-mountable design. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch in detail, covering its features, benefits, specifications, and how it can be a valuable addition to your network infrastructure. The Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L is a member of the Cisco Catalyst 2960-X series of network switches. It is a Layer 2 and Layer 3 switch, which means it operates not only at the data link layer (Layer 2) but also at the network layer (Layer 3), making it a versatile choice for various network setups. This particular model is equipped with 48 Ethernet ports, offering you the ability to connect multiple devices to your network. Additionally, it comes with 4 Gigabit SFP ports, allowing you to connect to other network devices using fiber optics for high-speed, long-distance connections. The rack-mountable design makes it easy to install in standard network racks or cabinets.
Key Features
The Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch boasts a range of features that make it a popular choice for network administrators and IT professionals. Here are some of the key features of this switch:
- a. 48 Ethernet Ports: With 48 Ethernet ports, this switch can accommodate a significant number of devices such as computers, printers, IP phones, and more. Each port provides high-speed connectivity for your network devices.
- b. Gigabit SFP Ports: The 4 Gigabit SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) ports offer flexibility in connecting to other network devices, especially when long-distance connections are required. SFP ports can be used for fiber optic connections, delivering high bandwidth and data transmission reliability.
- c. Power over Ethernet (PoE): The “FPS” in the model name, WS-C2960X-48FPS-L, signifies that this switch supports Power over Ethernet. PoE allows the switch to provide power to compatible devices, such as IP cameras and phones, through Ethernet cables, eliminating the need for separate power sources. This feature simplifies installation and reduces the clutter of power cables.
- d. Managed Switch: The Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L is a managed switch, which means it can be configured and monitored to meet your specific network requirements. You have the flexibility to set up VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), QoS (Quality of Service), and security features, enhancing network control and security.
- e. Layer 3 Routing: As a Layer 3 switch, it can perform routing functions in addition to standard switching. This enables it to make routing decisions based on IP addresses, making it suitable for more complex network setups.
- f. Energy Efficiency: Cisco is committed to sustainability, and the Catalyst 2960-X series switches are designed with energy-efficient features. They can automatically adjust power consumption based on network traffic, reducing energy costs and carbon footprint.
- g. Rack-Mountable Design: The switch is designed to be rack-mounted, which is a common requirement in data centers and network closets. This makes it easy to integrate into your existing infrastructure.
Benefits of Using Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L
Now that we’ve covered the key features, let’s delve into the benefits of using the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch in your network environment:
- a. Scalability: The 48 Ethernet ports allow for the easy expansion of your network. Whether you’re managing a small business network or a larger enterprise, this switch provides the scalability needed to accommodate more devices and users.
- b. High Performance: With Gigabit Ethernet support, this switch offers excellent data transfer speeds, ensuring that your network runs smoothly and efficiently. It’s ideal for applications that demand high bandwidth, such as video streaming, large file transfers, and real-time collaboration.
- c. PoE for Convenience: Power over Ethernet is a convenient feature that eliminates the need for separate power sources for connected devices. This not only reduces clutter but also simplifies the installation process, making it more cost-effective.
- d. Versatile Connectivity: The 4 Gigabit SFP ports provide versatile connectivity options for long-distance connections. Whether you need to connect to other switches, routers, or devices in different parts of your facility, the SFP ports offer flexibility.
- e. Network Management: The switch’s managed capabilities allow you to have granular control over your network. You can segment your network into VLANs to improve security and manage traffic effectively. Quality of Service (QoS) features help prioritize critical applications to ensure a consistent user experience.
- f. Layer 3 Routing: The Layer 3 routing capabilities make it suitable for network setups that require routing at the switch level. This feature enables the switch to make intelligent routing decisions, which can optimize the flow of data and reduce congestion in the network.
- g. Energy Efficiency: As mentioned earlier, the switch is designed with energy efficiency in mind. It can reduce power consumption during periods of low network activity, which not only saves on energy costs but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable IT infrastructure.
- h. Reliability and Durability: Cisco is a well-known and trusted brand in the networking industry. The Catalyst 2960-X series switches are known for their reliability and durability, ensuring that your network infrastructure operates smoothly with minimal downtime.
- i. Cisco Support and Updates: Cisco provides excellent support and regular updates for their products. This means you can rely on their expertise to address any issues or vulnerabilities that may arise over time.
Technical Specifications
To have a comprehensive understanding of the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch, let’s take a closer look at its technical specifications:
- Model: WS-C2960X-48FPS-L
- Total Ports: 48 x 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports
- Uplink Interfaces: 4 x Gigabit SFP ports
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): Yes (740W PoE budget)
- Switching Capacity: 216 Gbps
- Forwarding Rate: 101.2 Mpps
- MAC Address Table Size: 16,000 entries
- VLANs Supported: Up to 1023 VLANs
- Layer 3 Routing: Yes (Static routing and RIP)
- Redundant Power Supply: Optional (RPS2300)
- Rack-Mountable: Yes (1U form factor)
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 1.75 x 17.5 x 11.8 inches (44.5 x 444.5 x 299.7 mm)
- Weight: 12.7 pounds (5.76 kg)
These technical specifications provide an in-depth view of the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch’s capabilities. It’s essential to consider these specifications when planning your network infrastructure and ensuring that the switch meets your requirements.
Applications and Use Cases
The Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch is a versatile networking device suitable for a wide range of applications and use cases. Here are some scenarios where this switch can be highly beneficial:
- a. Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs): For small to medium-sized businesses, this switch provides a cost-effective solution for building a reliable and high-performance network. It can support multiple workstations, printers, IP phones, and security cameras while offering PoE for simplified device connectivity.
- b. Enterprise Networks: In larger enterprises, where scalability, reliability, and network segmentation are critical, the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L excels. It can be used to create VLANs to separate departments or functions, ensuring network security and efficient traffic management.
- c. Data Centers: Data centers demand high-speed connectivity, and this switch delivers with its Gigabit Ethernet ports and SFP ports for fiber connections. Its Layer 3 routing capabilities also make it a suitable choice for data center networks that require routing functions at the switch level.
- d. IP Surveillance: IP cameras for video surveillance often require both data and power connections. The PoE support in this switch simplifies the installation and management of IP cameras in surveillance systems.
- e. Educational Institutions: Schools and universities can benefit from the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L switch to support large numbers of students, faculty, and administrative staff. Its Layer 3 capabilities can help manage network traffic effectively, ensuring a smooth learning environment.
- f. Healthcare Facilities: In healthcare environments, where the network is used for electronic health records, communication systems, and medical devices, a reliable and secure network is essential. The switch’s PoE support can power various medical devices, and its security features can protect sensitive patient data.
- g. Remote Offices and Branches: Remote offices and branch locations often require network equipment that can be easily managed and maintained remotely. The Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L can be managed centrally and is suitable for remote deployments.
- h. Industrial Environments: Some industrial settings require network equipment that can withstand harsh conditions. While the switch is not designed for extreme industrial environments, it can be used in less demanding industrial settings due to its reliability and rugged construction.
Initial Configuration
- Access the switch through the console port or the management interface.
- Configure the switch’s IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway to enable remote management.
- Create VLANs if needed and configure the switch ports accordingly.
- Set up Quality of Service (QoS) policies to prioritize critical traffic.
- Enable Power over Ethernet (PoE) on the ports that require it, and specify the power budget if necessary.
Ongoing Management
- Regularly update the switch’s firmware to ensure security and performance improvements.
- Monitor network traffic and performance using management tools and the switch’s built-in features.
- Implement security measures such as access control lists (ACLs) and port security to protect the network.
- Back up your switch’s configuration to avoid data loss in case of a failure or misconfiguration.
- Stay informed about Cisco’s support and updates for your switch model.
It’s essential to consult the switch’s user manual and Cisco’s documentation for specific instructions related to your setup and network requirements. Additionally, consider seeking the expertise of a network professional if you are not confident in configuring and managing the switch yourself.
General Information about Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C2960X-48FPS-L
- Product Type: Switch
Key Features of the 48-Port Switch
- Device Type: Managed Switch with 48 Ports (Stackable)
- Enclosure Type: Desktop and Rack-mountable (1U)
- Ports: 48 x 10/100/1000 (PoE+) + 4 x Gigabit SFP
- Power Over Ethernet (PoE): PoE+
- PoE Budget: 740 Watts
Performance
- Switching Capacity: 216 Gbps
- Forwarding Performance (64-byte Packet Size): 107.1 Mpps
Capacity:
- Virtual Interfaces (VLANs): 1023
- Jumbo Frame Support: 9216 Remote Management Protocol: SNMP 1, RMON 1, RMON 2, RMON 3, RMON 9, Telnet, SNMP 3, SNMP 2c, HTTP, TFTP, SSH, CLI
Features:
- Layer 2 Switching
- DHCP Support
- Auto-negotiation
- ARP Support
- VLAN Support
- Auto-uplink (Auto MDI/MDI-X)
- IGMP Snooping
- Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
- IPv6 Support
- Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) Support
- Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP) Support
- Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) Support
- Port Aggregation Protocol (PAGP) Support
- Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) Support
- Access Control List (ACL) Support
- RADIUS Support
- SSH Support
- Jumbo Frames Support
- MLD Snooping
- Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI)
- PoE+
- CISCO Energywise Technology
- Unicast Reverse Path Forwarding (URPF)
- Uni-directional Link Detection (UDLD)
- Rapid Per-VLAN Spanning Tree Plus (PVRST+)
- IPv4 Support
- Shaped Round Robin (SRR)
- Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
- MAC Address Notification
- Remote Switch Port Analyzer (RSPAN)
- Netflow
- Hot Standby Router Protocol (HSRP) Support
- Energy Efficient Ethernet
- Multicast VLAN Registration (MVR)
- Class of Service (CoS)
- CISCO Flexstack Plus
Compliant Standards
- IEEE 802.3
- IEEE 802.3u
- IEEE 802.3z
- IEEE 802.1d
- IEEE 802.1q
- IEEE 802.3ab
- IEEE 802.1p
- IEEE 802.3af
- IEEE 802.3x
- IEEE 802.3ad (LACP)
- IEEE 802.1w
- IEEE 802.1x
- IEEE 802.3ae
- IEEE 802.1s
- IEEE 802.1ae
- IEEE 802.1AB (LLDP)
- IEEE 802.3at
- IEEE 802.3az
- IEEE 802.1ax Power: AC 120/230V (50/60 Hz) Power Redundancy: Optional
In summary, the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L 48 Ports Switch Catalyst 2960x-48fps-l Managed + 4 X Gigabit SFP Rack-mountable is a high-quality network switch that offers a range of features and benefits for various network environments. Whether you’re a small business, a large enterprise, or an organization with specific networking needs, this switch can help you build a reliable and efficient network infrastructure.
With 48 Ethernet ports, Gigabit SFP ports, Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, Layer 3 routing capabilities, and energy-efficient design, this switch is well-equipped to handle a variety of applications. Its rack-mountable form factor makes it suitable for standard network racks and cabinets, while its Cisco pedigree ensures reliability and regular updates.
When considering the Cisco WS-C2960X-48FPS-L for your network, it’s essential to assess your specific requirements and consult with networking professionals if needed to ensure that it aligns with your goals. Whether you’re expanding an existing network, setting up a new one, or upgrading your current infrastructure, this switch can play a crucial role in ensuring your network operates at its best.
