Description
Product Overview of Cisco WS-C3850-24T-S Modular Switch
The WS-C3850-24T-S is a powerful networking device designed to meet the demands of modern business environments. This modular switch, belonging to the Catalyst 3850 series, offers a range of features and capabilities essential for efficient network management. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the key specifications and functionalities of the WS-C3850-24T-S, shedding light on its 24-ports, 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 connectivity, USB manageability, Layer3 capabilities, rack-mountable design, 1U form factor, and stackable modular architecture with a dedicated expansion slot.
Switch Model and Series
The “WS-C3850-24T-S” refers to the model number of the switch. In the Cisco Catalyst series, the “3850” is indicative of a specific line of switches known for their advanced features and robust performance.
Port Details for Stackable SwitchPorts and Speed
This Catalyst 3850 switch is equipped with 24 ports that support various networking needs. These ports are specifically designed for 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45, providing flexibility to accommodate different network speeds, from standard Ethernet to Gigabit Ethernet.
USB Connectivity
In addition to traditional Ethernet ports, the switch features Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports. These USB ports offer an alternative means of connectivity, allowing for the attachment of USB devices such as storage drives or other peripherals.
Management Capabilities of 24 Ports L3 SwitchManageability
The term “Manageable” indicates that this switch is equipped with management features, allowing network administrators to configure, monitor, and control the device. This is crucial for optimizing network performance and ensuring efficient operation.
Layer3 Functionality
The Catalyst 3850 is a Layer3 switch, meaning it operates at the network layer of the OSI model. This provides the switch with the ability to perform routing functions, making it more than just a simple data link layer switch. Layer 3 switches are capable of making forwarding decisions based on IP addresses, enhancing network efficiency.
Key Features of Layer3 Rack-mountable 1U Stackable Modular Switch
- 24-Port ConfigurationThe WS-C3850-24T-S boasts a 24-port configuration, allowing for the seamless connection of devices at speeds of 10/100/1000 Mbps. This ensures high-performance networking capabilities suitable for a variety of applications, from basic data transfer to bandwidth-intensive tasks.
- 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 PortsEquipped with 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 ports, the switch facilitates flexible connectivity, supporting various Ethernet speeds. This feature ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, making the WS-C3850-24T-S a versatile solution for diverse network environments.
- USB (Universal Serial Bus) ConnectivityThe inclusion of Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports enhances the switch’s manageability. USB connectivity provides an additional avenue for device connection, simplifying configuration and management processes. This feature is especially useful for administrators seeking efficient ways to control and monitor network activities.
- Manageable Layer 3 CapabilitiesThe WS-C3850-24T-S is not just a switch; it is a Manageable Layer 3 switch. This means it operates at the network layer, offering advanced routing capabilities. This is a crucial feature for networks requiring dynamic routing, allowing for efficient traffic management and optimized data delivery.
- Rack-mountable 1U DesignWith a rack-mountable 1U design, the WS-C3850-24T-S optimizes space utilization in data center environments. The 1U form factor is a standard size for rack-mounted equipment, ensuring easy integration into existing infrastructure. This compact design is ideal for organizations with limited rack space.
- Stackable Modular SwitchThe stackable modular design of the WS-C3850-24T-S enables scalability and flexibility. Multiple switches can be stacked together, forming a unified and easily managed network infrastructure. This feature simplifies expansion and maintenance, providing a cost-effective solution for evolving network requirements.
- Expansion Slot for Enhanced CapabilitiesOne of the standout features of the WS-C3850-24T-S is its 1x Expansion Slot. This slot allows for additional modules to be added, enhancing the switch’s capabilities. Whether it’s for increased port density, specialized connectivity options, or advanced features, the expansion slot opens up possibilities for tailoring the switch to specific network needs.
Scalability and ExpansionStackable Architecture
One of the standout features of the Catalyst 3850 series is its stackable architecture. This allows multiple switches to be interconnected and managed as a single logical unit. Stackable switches provide scalability, simplified management, and increased resilience in case of device failure.
Expansion Slot
The presence of an Expansion Slot further enhances the switch’s versatility. This slot allows for the addition of additional modules, such as interface cards or other expansion options. This capability ensures that the switch can adapt to evolving network requirements.
Modular Design
The WS-C3850-24T-S comes equipped with a 1x expansion slot, offering a modular approach to network expansion. This slot allows for the integration of additional modules or interfaces, enabling customization based on specific network needs. The modular design ensures that the switch remains adaptable to evolving technological requirements.
Applications and Use Cases
The WS-C3850-24T-S finds applications across various industry segments, thanks to its versatile features. Some notable applications include:
- Enterprise Networks: In large enterprises with diverse networking needs, the WS-C3850-24T-S can serve as a central networking hub. Its Layer 3 capabilities make it suitable for managing complex network architectures efficiently.
- Data Centers: The rack-mountable design and stackable modular capabilities make the switch an ideal choice for data centers. It provides a scalable and easily maintainable solution for handling high volumes of data traffic.
- Educational Institutions: Educational institutions can benefit from the WS-C3850-24T-S’s robust features, supporting the connectivity requirements of classrooms, administrative offices, and research facilities.
- Healthcare Facilities: In healthcare settings where secure and reliable communication is paramount, the switch ensures the seamless operation of critical systems such as Electronic Health Records (EHR) and medical imaging.
- Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs): SMBs can leverage the WS-C3850-24T-S to establish a cost-effective yet high-performance network infrastructure. The stackable design allows for easy expansion as business needs grow.
Advanced Networking Capabilities
The WS-C3850-24T-S Cisco Catalyst 3850 is a powerful, next-generation, managed Layer 3 switch that is designed for enterprise and campus networks. It offers a variety of advanced networking capabilities that can help to improve the performance and security of your network.
- StackWise-480: This technology allows multiple switches to be stacked together to increase scalability and resiliency. This allows for a scalable solution that can handle the growing demands of enterprise and campus networks.
- Wireless Controller: The switch can act as a wireless controller for Cisco Aironet access points, allowing for centralized management of the wireless network. This can help to simplify network configuration and improve security.
- TrustSec: This feature provides identity-based security and access control, allowing you to identify and authenticate users and devices on the network and apply security policies based on their identity.
- Quality of Service (QoS): This feature allows you to prioritize network traffic, ensuring that critical applications and services receive the bandwidth they need to operate effectively.
- IPv4 and IPv6: The switch supports both IPv4 and IPv6, allowing for a smooth transition to the next generation of internet protocol.
- Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE): This feature detects the cable length and adjusts the power usage accordingly which helps in power savings.
- Cisco DNA: This is a network management software that allows for automated and simplified network management, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
- Flexible Netflow: this allows for traffic monitoring and can help in identifying the network bottlenecks and troubleshooting the network.
Efficient Network Management
The WS-C3850-24T-S Cisco Catalyst 3850 is designed to provide efficient network management through the use of various features and technologies.
- Cisco DNA: This is a network management software that allows for automated and simplified network management, monitoring, and troubleshooting. It provides a single platform for policy management, enforcement, and reporting, reducing the time and effort required to manage the network.
- StackWise-480: This technology allows multiple switches to be stacked together, providing a scalable solution that can handle the growing demands of enterprise and campus networks. This allows network administrators to easily manage multiple switches as if they were a single device.
- Web-based management interface: The switch has a web-based management interface that allows for easy configuration and management of the switch, without the need for additional software.
- SNMP and syslog: These features allow for the monitoring and management of the switch using third-party network management tools, providing additional flexibility and options for network management.
- Zero-Touch Provisioning (ZTP): This feature allows for remote deployment and configuration of the switch, reducing the time and effort required for deployment.
- Auto Smartports: This feature allows the switch to automatically configure the port based on the connected device reducing the manual configuration effort.
- Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE): This feature detects the cable length and adjusts the power usage accordingly which helps in power savings.
General Information for the Cisco Managed Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C3850-24T-S
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 3850
- Product Type: Layer 3 Switch
Interfaces/Ports of Layer 3 Switch
- Form Factor: Rack-mountable
- Total Number of Network Ports: 24
- Token Ring Port: No
- LRE Port: No
- Bypass: No
- Modular: Yes
- Management Port: Yes
- USB: Yes
- Stack Port: Yes
- Port/Expansion Slot: 24 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
Performance of 24 Ports Switch
- Media Type: Supported Twisted Pair
- Twisted Pair Cable Standard: Category 5e
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
I/O Expansions
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 1
Network and Communication
- Layer Supported: 3
Memory
- Standard Memory: 4 GB
- Memory Technology: DRAM
- Flash Memory: 2 GB
Reliability
- MTBF: 303,230 Hours
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: No
- Input Voltage: 220 V AC, 110 V AC
- Power Source: Power Supply
- Redundant Power Supply: Yes
In general, the WS-C3850-24T-S Catalyst 3850 is a robust and feature-rich network switch suitable for a wide range of applications. Its combination of port flexibility, management capabilities, and scalability makes it a valuable asset for organizations seeking a reliable and adaptable networking solution. Whether deployed in a small business network or a large enterprise environment, the Catalyst 3850 demonstrates Cisco’s commitment to delivering high-performance networking equipment.
