Description
Understanding the WS-C4948E-S Catalyst 4948E Ethernet Switch
The WS-C4948E-S Catalyst 4948E is a powerful Ethernet switch designed to meet the demands of modern networking environments. With its impressive 48 ports supporting 10/100/1000Mbps (RJ45) and an additional 4 slots for 10 Gigabit Ethernet Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+), this switch is a versatile solution for businesses seeking high-performance networking capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key features, specifications, and benefits of the WS-C4948E-S, exploring its role in facilitating Layer 2 Ethernet connectivity.
Key Features of the Cisco WS-C4948E-S Catalyst 4948E Managed Switch48 Ports for Enhanced Connectivity
- The WS-C4948E-S boasts 48 ports, providing a multitude of connections for devices such as computers, printers, and other networking equipment.
- These ports support speeds of 10/100/1000Mbps, accommodating a range of devices with varying bandwidth requirements.
4 Slots for 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+
- With 4 additional slots dedicated to 10 Gigabit Ethernet Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+), the switch enables high-speed data transfer for bandwidth-intensive applications.
- These SFP+ slots offer flexibility in network expansion and connectivity, allowing businesses to adapt to evolving network requirements.
IP Base Software for Advanced Routing
- The WS-C4948E-S runs on IP Base software, providing advanced routing capabilities.
- This software enables the implementation of sophisticated networking protocols, enhancing the switch’s ability to route data efficiently within complex network architectures.
Layer 2 Ethernet Switching
- The switch operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model, focusing on data link layer functionality.
- Layer 2 Ethernet switching facilitates efficient communication between devices within the same network, making it a fundamental component for building scalable and reliable networks.
Technical Specifications Insights into the WS-C4948E-S Catalyst 4948E
- Physical Specifications
- The switch is designed in a compact form factor, making it suitable for deployment in various network environments.
- Rack-mountable, the WS-C4948E-S ensures easy integration into existing network infrastructure.
- Performance Metrics
- The switch’s performance metrics include its forwarding rate, which determines the speed at which it can transmit data.
- Additionally, factors such as buffer size and switching capacity contribute to the overall efficiency of the switch in handling network traffic.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support
- The WS-C4948E-S may or may not support Power over Ethernet, depending on the specific model.
- PoE support allows the switch to deliver power to connected devices such as IP cameras and VoIP phones over the Ethernet cable, simplifying deployment and reducing the need for additional power sources.
- Redundancy and High Availability
- Redundancy features, such as hot-swappable power supplies and fans, contribute to the switch’s high availability.
- These features ensure that the switch can continue operating seamlessly even in the event of a component failure, minimizing downtime and enhancing network reliability.
Use Cases: Applications of the WS-C4948E-S Catalyst 4948E
Enterprise Networks
- The WS-C4948E-S is well-suited for enterprise-level networks, providing a robust and scalable solution for connecting a large number of devices within an organization.
- Its Layer 2 Ethernet switching capabilities make it an ideal choice for creating a stable and efficient internal network infrastructure.
Data Centers
- In data center environments where high-speed connectivity and data transfer are critical, the WS-C4948E-S excels.
- The 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ slots enable data centers to handle the increasing demands of virtualization, storage, and other resource-intensive applications.
Service Provider Networks
- Service providers can leverage the switch’s advanced routing capabilities to optimize the delivery of services to end-users.
- Its versatility in handling diverse network requirements makes it suitable for use in telecommunications and internet service provider environments.
Educational Institutions
- Educational institutions, with their varied networking needs, can benefit from the WS-C4948E-S.
- The switch’s combination of port density, speed options, and Layer 2 functionality makes it adaptable to the dynamic and growing demands of educational networks.
Compliant Standards
The WS-C4948E-S Cisco Catalyst 4948E 48-Ports Ethernet Switch complies with a variety of industry standards to ensure compatibility and interoperability with other networking devices. Some of the key compliant standards for this switch include:
- IEEE 802.3: This standard defines the physical and data link layers of Ethernet networks. The switch is compliant with several IEEE 802.3 standards, including 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab, and 802.3z.
- IEEE 802.1Q: This standard defines VLAN tagging, which allows the switch to segment a network into multiple virtual LANs (VLANs) for improved security and management.
- IEEE 802.1p: This standard defines Quality of Service (QoS) priorities, which allow the switch to prioritize different types of network traffic.
- IEEE 802.3x: This standard defines full-duplex and flow control mechanisms for Ethernet networks.
- IEEE 802.3ad: This standard defines Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) which allows the switch to bundle multiple physical links together to form a single logical link.
- IEEE 802.1x: This standard defines port-based network access control, which allows the switch to authenticate users before granting them access to the network.
- SNMP, RMON, and RMON2: These standards define a set of management protocols that allow the switch to be remotely managed and monitored.
- Cisco Discovery Protocol: This is a proprietary protocol developed by Cisco Systems to allow network devices to discover and learn about each other on a Cisco-based network.
- Cisco IOS Software: The switch runs on Cisco’s IOS software, which provides a wide range of features and capabilities for configuring, managing, and monitoring the switch.
General Information about the Cisco WS-C4948E-S 48 Ports Managed Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number: WS-C4948E-S
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 4900
- Product Model: 4948E
- Product Name: Catalyst 4948E Ethernet Switch
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Interfaces/Ports of Catalyst Ethernet Switch
- Total Number of Network Ports: 48
- Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports: 48
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 48 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 4 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Slot
Media & Performance
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
I/O Expansions
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 4
- Expansion Slot Type: SFP+
- Number of SFP+ Slots: 4
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 2
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
- Management:
- Cisco Works LAN Management Solution (LMS)
- Cisco Works CiscoView
- Cisco Network Assistant
- IEEE 802.1Q VLAN
- IEEE 802. 1p QoS
- SNMP v1, v2, v3
- RMON
- DHCP
- CLI
- HTTPS
- Telnet
Memory
- Standard Memory: 1 GB
Power Description
- Input Voltage: 110 V AC
- Input Voltage: 220 V AC
- Power Source: Power Supply
- Redundant Power Supply: Yes
In short, the WS-C4948E-S Catalyst 4948E Ethernet switch stands as a reliable and versatile solution for modern networking challenges. With its array of ports, 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ slots, and Layer 2 functionality, this switch caters to the diverse needs of enterprise, data center, service provider, and educational networks. By understanding its key features, specifications, and applications, as well as following best practices for installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and maintenance, organizations can harness the full potential of the WS-C4948E-S to build and maintain robust and high-performance networks.
