Description
Overview of the Cisco 24 Ports Switch
The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I is a Cisco Catalyst 24 Ports Ethernet Managed Switch that is designed for small to medium-sized businesses that require a reliable and high-performance network infrastructure. It is part of the Cisco Catalyst 2960-XR series of switches and is an upgraded version of the WS-C2960X-24TS-L model.
- The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I switch is equipped with 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and two 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplink interfaces, which provide high-speed connectivity for multiple devices and applications. The switch is also capable of supporting advanced features such as Layer 3 routing, Power over Ethernet (PoE), and Quality of Service (QoS).
- The switch runs on Cisco’s IOS software and includes several management features to help network administrators monitor and control network traffic. The switch also supports advanced security features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), Port Security, and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Snooping.
- The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I switch is designed for easy deployment and management. It includes a web-based user interface and a command-line interface (CLI) for configuration and management. The switch also supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and Remote Monitoring (RMON) for monitoring and troubleshooting.
Cisco’s WS-C2960XR-24TS-I is a powerful member of the Catalyst 2960 X Series, offering an advanced solution for networking needs. In this detailed guide, we explore the key features, specifications, and benefits of this 24-port Ethernet switch, emphasizing its 10/100Mbps capabilities, 4 x SFP Gigabit support, and stackable managed design.
Key Features of SwitchHigh-Speed Connectivity
- The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I supports 24 Ethernet ports, providing fast and reliable 10/100Mbps connectivity for efficient data transfer within your network.
Gigabit Expansion
- With 4 x SFP Gigabit slots, this switch enables seamless integration with high-speed Gigabit Ethernet connections, enhancing overall network performance.
Layer 3 Managed
- As a Layer 3 managed switch, it offers advanced routing capabilities, allowing for more efficient data routing and network optimization.
Stackable Design
- The stackable feature allows multiple switches to be connected and managed as a single unit, streamlining network administration and facilitating scalability.
Performance and Speed
- The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I is designed to deliver high-speed performance, ensuring swift data transmission and reduced latency in demanding network environments.
- With 10/100Mbps speed, each of the 24 Ethernet ports supports fast and reliable data transfer, catering to the needs of bandwidth-intensive applications.
- The inclusion of 4 x SFP Gigabit slots offers flexibility for connecting to high-speed Gigabit networks or uplinking to other switches for improved network architecture.
Managed Capabilities
- The Layer 3 managed capabilities of this switch provide enhanced control over network traffic, allowing for efficient data routing and improved network optimization.
- Managed switches offer features such as VLAN support, Quality of Service (QoS), and advanced security protocols, empowering administrators to customize and optimize network performance.
- The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I supports various management protocols, including SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), facilitating seamless integration into existing network management systems.
Stackable Design for Scalability
- The stackable design of this switch allows for easy expansion and scalability of your network infrastructure.
- Connecting multiple switches in a stack simplifies network management, reducing the complexity of handling individual devices and providing a unified management interface.
- Stackable switches facilitate redundancy and high availability, ensuring uninterrupted network services even in the event of a hardware failure.
Use Cases
- The Cisco WS-C2960XR-24TS-I is suitable for various applications, including enterprise networks, data centers, and businesses with growing network demands.
- Its high-speed capabilities make it ideal for supporting bandwidth-intensive applications such as video streaming, large file transfers, and virtualization.
- The Layer 3 managed features are particularly beneficial for organizations requiring advanced routing capabilities and efficient traffic management.
Security and Reliability
- The WS-C2960XR-24TS-I includes security features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), Secure Shell (SSH), and other protocols to safeguard the network against unauthorized access and potential threats.
- Cisco is renowned for its reliability, and the WS-C2960XR-24TS-I is no exception. With a robust design and quality components, it delivers consistent and dependable performance.
Environmental Considerations
- Cisco is committed to environmental responsibility, and the WS-C2960XR-24TS-I is designed with energy efficiency in mind.
- It meets RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards, indicating a reduction in hazardous materials, and contributing to a more environmentally friendly networking solution.
Initial Configuration
The initial configuration of the WS-C2960XR-24TS-I Cisco Catalyst switch involves setting up basic network settings such as IP address, username, and password. This can be done through the Command Line Interface (CLI) using a console cable and terminal emulation program or through the web interface using a web browser.
To access the CLI, connect a console cable to the switch’s console port and open a terminal emulation program on your computer. The default baud rate is 9600 bps, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit. Once connected, you’ll be prompted for a username and password. The default username is “Cisco” and the default password is “Cisco”.
To access the web interface, connect a computer to one of the switch’s ports and enter the switch’s default IP address, which is usually “192.168.1.254” in a web browser. The default login credentials are “admin” for the username and “admin” for the password.
Once you have access to the switch, the initial configuration can be done through the CLI or web interface. Some of the initial configuration steps include:
- Setting up an IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway for the switch.
- Setting up a hostname for the switch.
- Configuring the switch’s ports, including setting the port speed and duplex, and configuring VLANs.
- Configuring the switch’s security features, such as enabling SSH or HTTPS for remote management.
- Setting up a username and password for the switch.
- Configuring the switch for basic routing and Layer 3 features, such as configuring a default route and enabling OSPF or EIGRP routing protocols.
It is important to change the default login credentials and also take a backup of the configuration before making any changes to avoid any unintended consequences. It’s also recommended to consult the device manually and also check for any latest software version and bug fixes before deploying the switch in production.
Specification about this Cisco WS-C2960XR-24TS-I
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU#: WS-C2960XR-24TS-I
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 2960-XR
- Type: Networking
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
- Interfaces/Ports: 24 Ports Ethernet Switch
- Total Number of Network Ports: 24
- Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports: 24
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 24 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 4 x Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Slot
Performance of Catalyst 2960-XR Managed Switch
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
I/O Expansions
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 4
- Expansion Slot Type: SFP
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 3
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: Yes
- Input Voltage: 110 V AC
- Input Voltage: 220 V AC
In general, the Cisco WS-C2960XR-24TS-I Ethernet Switch is a versatile and high-performance solution for organizations seeking reliable and scalable network infrastructure.
With its 24 Ethernet ports, Gigabit expansion slots, Layer 3 managed capabilities, and stackable design, it caters to a wide range of applications and provides the flexibility needed for evolving network requirements.
Whether you’re establishing a new network or upgrading an existing one, the WS-C2960XR-24TS-I offers the features, speed, and reliability to meet the demands of modern networking.
