Description
Product Overview of Cisco Catalyst 6000 Ethernet Switch Module
In the realm of networking equipment, Cisco has long been a trusted name, known for its reliable and high-performance solutions. One such offering is the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 Ethernet Switch Module. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the features, specifications, benefits, and potential use cases of this switch module.
Understanding Ethernet Switch Modules
Before diving into the specifics of the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 module, it’s important to understand the role of Ethernet switch modules in network infrastructure. Ethernet switch modules are essential components that enable devices within a network to communicate with each other by directing data traffic based on the destination address. These modules play a crucial role in building scalable and efficient networks.
Unveiling of the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Switch Module
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 Ethernet Switch Module is designed to be installed in Cisco Catalyst 6000 Series switches, which are widely used in enterprise networks, data centers, and service provider environments. This specific module features 48 ports, each capable of supporting 10/100 megabits per second (Mbps) Ethernet connectivity using RJ-45 connectors. Let’s explore the key features and specifications of this switch module in detail.
Key Features of the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Switch Module
- 48-Port Configuration: The WS-X6348-RJ45 module offers a total of 48 ports, providing ample connectivity for network devices such as computers, servers, printers, and IP phones.
- 10/100 Mbps Speed: Each port on the module supports both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps Ethernet speeds, allowing for flexible connectivity options depending on the requirements of connected devices.
- RJ-45 Connectors: The use of RJ-45 connectors simplifies the cabling process, as these connectors are commonly used for Ethernet connections and are compatible with standard twisted-pair Ethernet cables.
- Compatibility with Catalyst 6000 Series Switches: The WS-X6348-RJ45 module is specifically designed for use with Cisco Catalyst 6000 Series switches, ensuring seamless integration and interoperability within existing Cisco network infrastructure.
- Scalability: With 48 ports available, the module offers scalability to accommodate growing network demands, allowing organizations to expand their network capacity as needed.
- Layer 2 Switching: The module supports Layer 2 switching capabilities, enabling efficient packet forwarding based on MAC addresses and facilitating communication between devices within the same network segment.
Benefits of the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Switch Module
- High Port Density: The WS-X6348-RJ45 module’s 48-port configuration allows organizations to connect a large number of devices to their network without the need for additional hardware, reducing complexity and cost.
- Versatile Connectivity: With support for both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps Ethernet speeds, the module accommodates a wide range of devices, from legacy systems to modern network appliances, ensuring compatibility and flexibility.
- Simplified Deployment: The use of RJ-45 connectors simplifies the installation process, as these connectors are widely used and readily available, eliminating the need for specialized cabling or adapters.
- Interoperability: Being designed for use with Cisco Catalyst 6000 Series switches, the WS-X6348-RJ45 module seamlessly integrates with existing Cisco network infrastructure, allowing for smooth operation and management.
- Scalability and Future-Proofing: The module’s scalability enables organizations to expand their network capacity as their needs evolve, ensuring that their infrastructure can accommodate future growth and technological advancements.
Specifications of the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Switch Module
- Ports: 48 RJ-45 ports
- Speed: 10/100 Mbps per port
- Connectors: RJ-45
- Compatibility: Cisco Catalyst 6000 Series switches
- Form Factor: Plug-in module
- Layer: Layer 2 switching
- Management: SNMP, CLI, CiscoWorks
- Power Consumption: Varies based on configuration and usage
Use Cases and Applications
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 Ethernet Switch Module finds application in various networking scenarios, including:
- Enterprise Networks: In large organizations with multiple departments and a diverse range of networked devices, the WS-X6348-RJ45 module provides the necessary connectivity and scalability to support day-to-day operations.
- Data Centers: Data centers require high-density networking solutions to interconnect servers, storage systems, and networking equipment. The WS-X6348-RJ45 module offers the port density and performance needed to handle the demands of modern data center environments.
- Service Provider Networks: Service providers rely on robust networking infrastructure to deliver connectivity and services to their customers. The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 module enables service providers to build scalable and reliable networks that meet the needs of residential and business customers alike.
- Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities often have extensive networks to support classrooms, administrative offices, and campus-wide services. The WS-X6348-RJ45 module allows educational institutions to create efficient and resilient networks to meet the demands of students, faculty, and staff.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and healthcare facilities require reliable networking solutions to support critical medical devices, electronic health records (EHR) systems, and communication tools. The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 module ensures seamless connectivity and data exchange within healthcare environments.
Advanced Switching Features and Functions
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 10/100btx 48 Ports RJ-45 Module is a high-performance switching module for the Cisco Catalyst 6000 series switches. It provides 48 ports of 10/100 Base-TX Ethernet connectivity, with support for both full-duplex and half-duplex operation.
Advanced Switching Features:
- Quality of Service (QoS): The module supports advanced QoS features, such as class-based weight fair queuing (CBWFQ) and low-latency queuing (LLQ), which allow for the prioritization of different types of traffic.
- Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP): The module supports LACP, which allows for the bundling of multiple physical links into a single logical link, providing increased bandwidth and redundancy.
- Access Control Lists (ACLs): The module supports access control lists, which allow for the filtering and blocking of specific types of traffic based on a set of predefined rules.
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): The module supports STP, which allows for the detection and prevention of loops in the network, providing increased network stability.
- Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs): The module supports VLANs, which allow for the segmentation of a single physical network into multiple logical networks.
Functions:
- Switching: The module provides switching capabilities, allowing for the forwarding of traffic between different ports on the module.
- Routing: The module provides routing capabilities, allowing for the forwarding of traffic between different VLANs on the module.
- Security: The module provides security features, such as access control lists and port security, which allow for the protection of the network against unauthorized access.
- Management: The module provides management features, such as SNMP and web-based management, which allow for the configuration and monitoring of the module.
- Monitoring: The module provides monitoring features, such as port mirroring and syslog, which allow for the capture and analysis of network traffic.
Implementing Spanning Tree Protocol
The Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 10/100btx 48 Ports Switch Module supports the implementation of the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to prevent loops in a network while still allowing for redundancy.
To configure STP on the switch module, the following steps can be taken:
- Enable STP on the switch module by entering the “spanning-tree vlan vlan-id” command in global configuration mode.
- Configure the switch module as the root bridge by entering the “spanning-tree vlan vlan-id root primary” command in global configuration mode.
- Set the priority of the switch module by entering the “spanning-tree vlan vlan-id priority value” command in global configuration mode.
- Configure the ports on the switch module by entering the “spanning-tree port-priority value” command in interface configuration mode.
- Verify the STP configuration by entering the “show spanning-tree” command in privileged mode.
By implementing STP on the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 10/100btx 48 Ports Switch Module, network loops are prevented while still allowing for redundancy in the network. This ensures stable and efficient network communication.
Power and Energy Efficiency of 100MBPS Switch
The WS-X6348-RJ45 is a 48-port Ethernet switch module for the Cisco Catalyst 6000 series of switches. It supports 10/100Mbps speeds and uses RJ-45 connectors for network connectivity. The power consumption and energy efficiency of this module will depend on the specific configuration and usage of the switch. Cisco provides power consumption data for the WS-X6348-RJ45, which can be used to estimate the energy efficiency of the module. However, it’s important to note that the power consumption and energy efficiency of the switch will also depend on the number of ports in use, the type of traffic passing through the switch, and other factors.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-X6348-RJ45
- Device Type: 48 Ports Switch
Technical Information of 48 Ports Switch
- Form Factor: Plug-in Module
- Ports Qty: 48 X Ethernet 10base-t, Ethernet 100base-tx
- Data Transfer Rate: 100 Mbps
- Data Link Protocol: Ethernet, Fast Ethernet
- Remote Management Protocol: SNMP 1, SNMP 2, Rmon, Snmp 3
- Communication Mode: Half-duplex, Full-duplex
- Features: Auto-negotiation
- Compliant Standards: Ieee 802.3, Ieee 802.3u
- System Requirements: Cisco Ios
In summary, the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 Catalyst 6000 Ethernet Switch Module offers a robust and scalable networking solution for organizations of all sizes. With its high port density, versatile connectivity options, and seamless integration with Cisco Catalyst 6000 Series switches, this module enables organizations to build resilient and efficient networks to support their evolving business needs. Whether deployed in enterprise networks, data centers, or service provider environments, the Cisco WS-X6348-RJ45 module delivers the performance, reliability, and flexibility required for modern networking applications.
