Description
Product Overview of Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch
The Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch is a powerful networking device designed to enhance connectivity and performance in enterprise environments. This switch, with its 48 ports of 10/100 Ethernet and 2 GBIC-based Ethernet ports, offers high-speed data transfer and advanced features suitable for various networking needs. In this guide, we’ll delve into the features, benefits, installation process, and applications of the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch.
Unveiling of Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch
The Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch is part of Cisco’s Catalyst series, renowned for its reliability, scalability, and advanced functionality. With its 48 10/100 ports, it provides ample connectivity for numerous devices within a network, while the two GBIC-based Ethernet ports offer additional flexibility for high-speed connections. The EMI (Enhanced Multilayer Software Image) installed on this switch unlocks advanced networking capabilities, making it suitable for complex network architectures.
Key Features of the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch
- 48 Ports of 10/100 Ethernet: The switch offers 48 RJ-45 ports for connecting various devices such as computers, printers, servers, and more, at speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
- 2 GBIC-based Ethernet Ports: In addition to the 48 RJ-45 ports, the switch includes two slots for Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) modules, enabling high-speed Ethernet connections.
- Enhanced Multilayer Software Image (EMI): The EMI installed on the switch provides advanced networking features, including support for routing protocols such as OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) and RIP (Routing Information Protocol), VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, and multicast routing.
- Layer 3 Functionality: With its Layer 3 capabilities, the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch can route traffic between different VLANs, optimize network performance, and facilitate inter-VLAN communication.
- Quality of Service (QoS): The switch supports QoS features such as prioritization of traffic, ensuring that critical data receives preferential treatment for optimal performance.
- Security Features: It includes security mechanisms such as Access Control Lists (ACLs) and port security, safeguarding the network against unauthorized access and potential threats.
- Scalability: Designed to accommodate growing networks, the switch offers scalability options to expand network capacity and accommodate additional devices seamlessly.
- Management Capabilities: The Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch can be managed via a variety of methods, including a web-based interface, Command Line Interface (CLI), and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), providing administrators with comprehensive control and monitoring capabilities.
Benefits of Using the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch
- Improved Network Performance: With its high-speed Ethernet ports and advanced features, the switch enhances network performance, reducing latency and improving throughput.
- Enhanced Flexibility: The inclusion of GBIC-based Ethernet ports and support for advanced networking protocols offer flexibility in designing and managing complex network architectures.
- Increased Security: The switch’s robust security features help protect the network infrastructure and sensitive data from potential threats and unauthorized access.
- Simplified Management: Administrators can easily configure, monitor, and manage the switch using intuitive management interfaces, streamlining network management tasks.
- Scalability: The switch’s scalability allows organizations to expand their networks without compromising performance or reliability, accommodating future growth and evolving business needs.
Applications of the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch
The Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch finds applications in various networking scenarios, including:
- Enterprise Networks: The switch is ideal for medium to large enterprises, providing reliable connectivity, advanced features, and scalability to support diverse network requirements.
- Data Centers: In data center environments, the switch facilitates high-speed data transfer, efficient traffic routing, and seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
- Campus Networks: Educational institutions and corporate campuses can benefit from the switch’s robust performance, security features, and centralized management capabilities for campus-wide networking.
- Service Provider Networks: Service providers can deploy the switch in their networks to deliver reliable and high-performance services to customers, ensuring optimal network performance and uptime.
- Telecommunications: The switch can be used in telecommunications networks to support voice, data, and video services, providing a versatile platform for delivering multimedia content.
- Critical Infrastructure: Industries such as healthcare, finance, and government rely on the switch to ensure secure and uninterrupted operation of critical infrastructure components, such as servers, storage systems, and communication devices.
Network Connectivity and VLANs of 48 Ports Managed Switch
The WS-C3550-48-EMI Cisco Catalyst 3550 48-Ports Manageable Switch is a Layer 2 switch that supports both 10/100Mbps and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. It has 48 Ethernet ports, with 24 of them supporting both 10/100Mbps and Gigabit Ethernet and 24 supporting only 10/100Mbps. The switch also has 2 SFP-based Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports for connecting to other network devices or the internet.
One of the key features of the WS-C3550-48-EMI is its support for VLANs (Virtual LANs). VLANs allow for the creation of multiple logical networks within a single physical network. This allows for increased security and segmentation of network traffic. The switch supports up to 256 VLANs and allows for the creation of VLANs based on port, MAC address, or protocol. This allows for granular control over network traffic and can help to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.
In addition to VLANs, the WS-C3550-48-EMI also supports some other advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing network traffic, Port-based Access Control Lists (ACLs) for security, and Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) for load balancing. These features make the WS-C3550-48-EMI an ideal switch for small to medium-sized businesses or enterprise environments that require advanced network management and security capabilities.
General Information about this Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU # WS-C3550-48-EMI
- Device Type: 48 ports Managed Switch – stackable
Interfaces/Ports
- Enclosure Type: Desktop, 1U
- Interfaces: Fast Ethernet
- Ports: 48 x 10/100 + 2 x GBIC
- MAC Address Table Size: 8K entries
Management and Protocol
- Remote Management Protocol: SNMP 1, SNMP 2, RMON 1, RMON 2, SNMP 3
- Authentication Method: RADIUS, TACACS+
- Features: Full duplex capability, IP-routing, manageable, stackable
- Compliant Standards IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3z, IEEE 802.1D, IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.1p, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.1w, IEEE 802.1x
Memory
- RAM: 64 MB – integrate
- Flash Memory: 16 MB flash
- Built-in Devices: LED panel
- Status Indicators: Link activity, port transmission speed, port duplex mode, bandwidth utilization %, power, link OK
Expansion / Connectivity
- Interfaces: 48 x 100Base-TX – RJ-45 1 x console – RJ-45 – management 2 x GBIC
Power
- Power Device: Internal power supply
- Voltage Required: AC 120/230 V ( 50/60 Hz )
- Power Consumption Operational: 86 Watt
- Features: Redundant Power System (RPS) connector
- Compliant Standards: UL, cUL
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included: Serial adapter
- MTBF: 163,000 hours
- Compliant Standards: FCC Class A certified, CSA, UL, TUV GS, BSMI, cUL, EN 60950, EN55022, NOM, VCCI Class A ITE
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included: Enhanced Multilayer Software Image (EMI)
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature: 32 °F
- Max Operating Temperature: 113 °F
- Humidity Range Operating: 10 – 85%
- Max Altitude Operating: 9840 ft
In general, the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch is a versatile networking device that offers high performance, advanced features, and scalability to meet the demands of modern enterprise networks. With its 48 ports of 10/100 Ethernet, 2 GBIC-based Ethernet ports, and Enhanced Multilayer Software Image, it provides a robust foundation for building reliable and efficient network infrastructures. Whether deployed in enterprise environments, data centers, campus networks, or service provider networks, the Cisco WS-C3550-48-EMI Catalyst Switch delivers exceptional performance and value, making it a preferred choice for organizations seeking to optimize their networking capabilities.
