Description
Exploring the WS-C3550-48-SMI Catalyst Stackable Managed Switch
The WS-C3550-48-SMI is a powerful networking device belonging to the Catalyst 3550 Series, renowned for its multilayer stackable managed switch capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key features, advantages, performance, and use cases of this Multilayer Stackable switch, shedding light on its applications in various networking scenarios.
Key Features of 48-Port Managed Switch
- Multilayer Stackable Design: The WS-C3550-48-SMI boasts a multilayer stackable architecture, enabling seamless integration into complex network setups. This design facilitates scalability, allowing organizations to expand their networks effortlessly.
- Managed Switch Capabilities: As a managed switch, the WS-C3550-48-SMI provides administrators with granular control over network settings. This includes features such as VLAN configuration, Quality of Service (QoS) adjustments, and enhanced security protocols.
- 2x GBIC Expansion Slot: The switch comes equipped with 2 Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) expansion slots, offering flexibility for network expansion and accommodating high-bandwidth requirements. GBIC slots support a variety of interfaces, ensuring compatibility with different networking technologies.
- 48-Ports Fast Ethernet: With a total of 48 Ethernet ports, the WS-C3550-48-SMI provides ample connectivity for devices within the network. Fast Ethernet delivers reliable and efficient data transfer for a wide range of applications.
- Layer 2 and Layer 3 Switch Module: The switch features both Layer 2 and Layer 3 switch modules, enhancing its versatility. Layer 2 functionality enables efficient data switching at the data link layer, while Layer 3 capabilities introduce routing capabilities at the network layer.
Advantages for Cisco WS-C3550-48-SMI 48-Ports Stackable Switch
- Scalability: The multilayer stackable design of the WS-C3550-48-SMI allows organizations to scale their networks easily. Additional units can be stacked to accommodate growing demands, making it an ideal choice for expanding businesses.
- Network Management: As a managed switch, the WS-C3550-48-SMI empowers administrators with the ability to monitor and control various aspects of the network. This includes optimizing traffic flow, implementing security measures, and ensuring efficient resource allocation.
- High-Bandwidth Support: The inclusion of 2 GBIC expansion slots and 48 Fast Ethernet ports ensures that the switch can handle high-bandwidth applications. This is crucial for modern networks, where data-intensive tasks are commonplace.
- Versatility with Layer 2 and Layer 3 Functionality: The switch’s dual-layer functionality enhances its versatility. Layer 2 switching is efficient for local data transfers, while Layer 3 routing capabilities enable inter-VLAN communication and more sophisticated network setups.
- Reliability: Cisco, the manufacturer of the Catalyst 3550 Series, is synonymous with reliability. The WS-C3550-48-SMI benefits from Cisco’s reputation for producing robust networking equipment, contributing to the overall stability of the network infrastructure.
Performance of 48 Ports Layer 2/3 Switch
- Throughput: The WS-C3550-48-SMI delivers impressive throughput, ensuring that data moves swiftly and efficiently through the network. This is critical for preventing bottlenecks and maintaining a responsive network.
- Low Latency: Low latency is crucial for real-time applications and responsive network performance. The WS-C3550-48-SMI minimizes latency, making it suitable for environments where immediate data transmission is essential.
- Reliable Connectivity: The switch’s 48 Fast Ethernet ports provide reliable connectivity for a multitude of devices. Whether it’s connecting computers, printers, or other networking equipment, the WS-C3550-48-SMI ensures a stable connection.
- Gigabit Expansion: The inclusion of 2 GBIC expansion slots allows for Gigabit connectivity, supporting high-speed data transfer. This is particularly advantageous for scenarios where large volumes of data need to be transmitted quickly and efficiently.
- Layer 3 Routing Performance: The Layer 3 routing capabilities of the switch contribute to efficient and optimized data routing at the network layer. This is especially beneficial for networks with multiple subnets and VLANs.
Use Cases and Applications
- Enterprise Networks: The WS-C3550-48-SMI is well-suited for enterprise networks where scalability, reliability, and efficient management are paramount. Its multilayer stackable design and managed switch capabilities make it an ideal choice for organizations with evolving networking needs.
- Data Centers: In data center environments, where high-performance networking is crucial, the WS-C3550-48-SMI’s Gigabit expansion slots and Layer 3 routing capabilities shine. It can handle the demands of data-intensive applications and ensure seamless communication between servers and storage devices.
- Educational Institutions: Educational institutions with diverse networking requirements can benefit from the versatility of the WS-C3550-48-SMI. Its ability to support multiple VLANs, coupled with reliable connectivity, makes it suitable for campus-wide networks.
- Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs): SMBs looking for a cost-effective yet robust networking solution will find the WS-C3550-48-SMI appealing. Its scalability allows these businesses to expand their networks as they grow, while the managed switch features offer control over network configurations.
- VoIP Deployments: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) implementations demand low latency and reliable connectivity. The WS-C3550-48-SMI’s performance characteristics make it a suitable choice for networks supporting VoIP applications, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication.
Power and Energy Efficiency
The WS-C3550-48-SMI is a Cisco Catalyst 3550 48-port managed switch that is designed to provide power and energy efficiency. The switch features Cisco EnergyWise technology, which allows it to monitor and control the energy consumption of connected devices. It also has a number of power-saving features, such as the ability to automatically power down ports that are not in use, and the ability to adjust power levels based on the cable length. Additionally, the switch is designed to meet the Energy Star 2.0 standard for energy efficiency, which helps to reduce energy costs and minimize the environmental impact of the switch.
Multilayer Functionality
One of the standout features of the WS-C3550-48-SMI is its multilayer functionality. This means that the switch operates at both Layer 2 and Layer 3 of the OSI model. In simple terms, Layer 2 is responsible for data link functions, such as MAC address learning and Ethernet frame forwarding, while Layer 3 deals with network layer routing and IP addressing. This dual-layer capability makes the WS-C3550-48-SMI a versatile solution for various networking scenarios.
Managed Switch Capabilities
Being a managed switch, the WS-C3550-48-SMI provides administrators with extensive control over the network. This includes the ability to configure and monitor the switch remotely, enabling efficient network management. The switch supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), a standard protocol for managing and monitoring network devices. This allows for seamless integration with network management systems, enhancing overall network visibility and control.
2x GBIC Expansion Slot
The WS-C3550-48-SMI is equipped with 2 Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) expansion slots. GBICs are hot-swappable input/output devices that plug into these slots, allowing for flexible and customizable connectivity options. This feature is crucial for businesses with evolving network requirements, as administrators can easily adapt the switch to support different types of network interfaces and technologies.
General Information for the Cisco WS-C3550-48-SMI Managed Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C3550-48-SMI
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 3550
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Interfaces / Ports of 48 Ports Ethernet Switch
- Number of Ports: 48
- Fast Ethernet Port: Yes
- Interfaces/Ports: 48 x RJ-45 10/100Base-TX LAN
- Interfaces/Ports: 1 x RJ-45 Console Management
Performance of Catalyst C3550 Managed Switch
- Connectivity Media: Category 4 UTP 10Base-T
- Connectivity Media: Category 3 UTP 10Base-T
- Connectivity Media: Category 5 UTP 10/100Base-TX
- Performance: 13.6GBPS Switching Fabric
- Performance: 6.8GBPS Forwarding Bandwidth at Layer 2 and Layer 3
- Performance: 10.1MBPS Forwarding Rate for 64-byte Packet
I/O Expansions of Ethernet Switch
- Number of Expansion Slots: 2
- Expansion Slots: (2 Total) GBIC
- Modules: Not Included
Network & Communication
- Address Table: 8K MAC Addresses
Memory
- Standard Memory: 64MB
- Flash Memory: 16MB
Reliability
- MTBF: 163000Hour
Power Description
- Input Voltage: 110V AC
- Input Voltage: 220V AC
- Input Voltage Range: 100V AC to 127V AC
- Frequency: 50 Hz to 60 Hz
- Power Consumption: Up to 110 W
In summary, the WS-C3550-48-SMI Catalyst 3550 Series Multilayer Stackable Managed Switch is a versatile and powerful networking device with a range of features that cater to the evolving needs of modern networks. Its multilayer stackable design, managed switch capabilities, Gigabit expansion slots, and Layer 3 routing make it suitable for a variety of applications, from enterprise networks to data centers and educational institutions. The switch’s reliability, scalability, and performance contribute to its standing as a valuable asset in the realm of network infrastructure. As organizations continue to embrace digital transformation, the WS-C3550-48-SMI remains a reliable and adaptable solution for building and maintaining robust networks.
