Description
Understanding the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C Switch
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C is a powerful network switch designed for efficient and reliable data transfer in a variety of environments. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the key features and functionalities of this switch, emphasizing its 8 ports, 2 expansion slots, 10/100/1000Base-T capability, Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, compact design, and rail-mountable configuration.
Overview of the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C Switch
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S is a member of the Catalyst 3560-C series, known for its compact design and robust performance. Let’s break down the key aspects of this switch:
Port Configuration
This switch boasts 8 ports, allowing for multiple devices to connect simultaneously. The 10/100/1000Base-T ports support various network speeds, accommodating both standard and high-bandwidth applications.
Expansion Slots
With 2 expansion slots, the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S offers flexibility for future upgrades and additional functionalities. These slots allow for the integration of expansion modules, enhancing the switch’s capabilities based on specific networking requirements.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support
One standout feature of this switch is its Power over Ethernet (PoE) support. PoE enables the switch to deliver power to connected devices such as IP cameras, phones, and wireless access points through the Ethernet cable. This eliminates the need for separate power sources, simplifying the overall network infrastructure.
Compact Design
The Catalyst 3560-C series is renowned for its compact form factor. The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S, being rail-mountable, is ideal for environments with limited space. Its design makes it suitable for deployment in industrial settings, transportation systems, and other constrained spaces where traditional switches may not fit.
Gigabit Ethernet Performance
Equipped with Gigabit Ethernet technology, the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S ensures high-speed data transfer within the network. This is crucial for applications that demand low latency and rapid data exchange, such as video conferencing and large file transfers.
Manageability
The switch offers robust manageability features, allowing network administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the network efficiently. Management protocols such as SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) and SSH (Secure Shell) enhance the overall control and security of the network.
Use Cases and Applications of Rail-mountable Manageable Switch
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C switch finds applications across various industries due to its versatile features. Let’s explore some common use cases where this switch excels:
Industrial Environments
The rugged design and compact size make the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S well-suited for deployment in industrial environments. Its rail-mountable feature enables easy installation in control cabinets and other industrial settings where space is limited.
Transportation Systems
In transportation systems, reliability and durability are paramount. The Catalyst 3560-C series, including the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S, provides a robust solution for connecting devices in vehicles, railway systems, and other transportation infrastructure.
Video Surveillance Networks
The PoE support of the switch makes it an excellent choice for video surveillance networks. By delivering power to IP cameras over the Ethernet cable, the need for separate power sources is eliminated, simplifying installation and maintenance.
Small to Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)
For SMEs with limited space and a need for scalable network infrastructure, the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S offers an ideal solution. Its compact size, combined with the ability to add expansion modules, allows businesses to tailor their network to evolving needs.
Management and Protocol
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C switch provides a range of management and monitoring features to ensure optimal network performance. Here are some key aspects:
SNMP Monitoring
- Implement SNMP to enable remote monitoring of the switch. SNMP allows network administrators to collect data on performance, errors, and traffic.
VLAN Management
- Use the switch’s VLAN capabilities to create virtual networks within the physical network. This enhances segmentation and isolates traffic for improved security.
Quality of Service (QoS)
- Configure QoS settings to prioritize certain types of traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance.
Security Features
- Utilize security features such as port security and access control lists (ACLs) to control access to the network and protect against unauthorized access.
Future Expansion and Upgrades
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C switch is designed with future expansion in mind. The inclusion of 2 expansion slots provides a pathway for upgrades and integration of additional features. Here are some potential expansion options:
Module Integration
- Explore available expansion modules compatible with the switch to enhance its capabilities. Modules may include additional ports, fiber connectivity, or specialized features.
Firmware Updates
- Regularly check for firmware updates from the manufacturer. Updating the switch’s firmware ensures compatibility with new technologies and enhances overall performance.
Scaling the Network
- As the network grows, consider adding more Catalyst 3560-C switches to meet the increasing demand for connectivity. The compact design facilitates easy integration into existing network infrastructure.
Performance and Reliability
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S is a high-performance and reliable switch, designed to provide fast and secure connectivity in small and medium-sized business networks.
In terms of performance, the switch supports wire-speed forwarding and can handle up to 32 Gbps of switching capacity. It also supports advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, which allow you to prioritize different types of network traffic to ensure that time-sensitive applications, such as voice and video, receive the bandwidth they need.
In terms of reliability, the switch is designed to be highly available, with features such as redundancy and fault tolerance to minimize downtime in case of a failure. Additionally, the switch supports advanced security features such as access control lists (ACLs) and advanced threat defense to protect against network attacks.
The Switch also has Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) features that reduce power consumption, helping you lower costs and improve energy efficiency.
In addition, the switch comes with Cisco IOS Software that provides a comprehensive set of features to help you manage and secure your network, including easy-to-use web-based management tools and extensive troubleshooting capabilities.
Resiliency and High Availability
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst 3560-C 8 Ports Ethernet Compact Switch is designed to provide resiliency and high availability to minimize network downtime. Here are a few of the key features that contribute to the switch’s resiliency and high availability:
- Redundant Power Supply: The switch has a built-in, redundant power supply that allows it to continue operating even if one power supply fails. This helps to ensure that the switch and the devices connected to it stay online even in the event of a power failure.
- Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) and Port Aggregation Protocol (PAgP): The switch supports LACP and PAgP, which allow multiple physical ports to be grouped to form a logical port. This can provide increased bandwidth capacity, as well as redundancy in case one of the physical ports fails.
- Hot Swappable fans: The switch has hot-swappable fans which allow for removal and replacement of the fans without interrupting the switch operation
- Loop guard and UDLD (Unidirectional Link Detection): These features ensure that a physically redundant topology does not create a logical loop, providing a higher level of protection against misconfigurations.
- Rapid Per-VLAN Spanning Tree (RPVST+): This feature provides faster convergence after a topology change, which is used to avoid loops in a network and select the root bridge.
General Information of the Cisco WS-C3560CG-8TC-S 8 Ports Compact Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-C3560CG-8TC-S
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 3560-C
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Interfaces/Ports for Layer 2 Catalyst Switch
- Total Number of Network Ports: 8
- Uplink Port: Yes
- Management Port: Yes
- USB: Yes
- Number of Network (RJ-45) Ports: 8
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet Uplink
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 8 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Slot
I/O Expansions of 8 Ports Switch
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 2
- Expansion Slot Type: SFP
- Shared SFP Slot: Yes
- Number of SFP Slots: 2
Media & Performance
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 2
- Form Factor: Rail-mountable
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
Memory
- RAM: 128 MB
- Flash Memory: 64 MB
Networking
- Virtual interfaces (VLANs): 255
- Jumbo Frame Support: 9018 bytes
- Routing Protocol: OSPF, RIP-1, RIP-2, BGP, OSPFv2, OSPF for IPv6
- Remote Management Protocol: SNMP 1, SNMP 2, RMON 1, RMON 2, RMON 3, RMON 9, Telnet, SNMP 3, SNMP 2c, HTTP, CLI
- Authentication Method: Kerberos, Secure Shell (SSH), RADIUS, TACACS+
Features
- DHCP support, auto-negotiation, BOOTP support, ARP support, VLAN support, auto-uplink (auto MDI/MDI-X), IGMP snooping, Syslog support, DiffServ support, Broadcast Storm Control, IPv6 support, Multicast Storm Control, Unicast Storm Control, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) support, DHCP snooping, Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) support, Port Aggregation Protocol (PAgP) support, Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) support, Access Control List (ACL) support, Quality of Service (QoS), Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), STP Root Guard, Uni-Directional Link Detection (UDLD), fanless, DHCP relay, Remote Switch Port Analyzer (RSPAN)
Power Description
- Power Device: Internal power supply
- Voltage Required: AC 120/230 V (50/60 Hz)
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature: 23 °F
- Max Operating Temperature: 104 °F
- Humidity Range Operating: 5 – 95% (non-condensing)
- Min Storage Temperature: -13 °F
- Max Storage Temperature: 158 °F
- Humidity Range Storage: 5 – 95% (non-condensing)
Miscellaneous
- MTBF: 488,549 hours
- Compliant Standards: GOST, CISPR 24, EN55022, VCCI Class A ITE, EN55024, CISPR 22, CCC, RoHS, UL 60950-1, IEC 60950-1, EN 60950-1, CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1, GB 4943
Outline, the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S Catalyst Switch stands out as a versatile and reliable networking solution, catering to the connectivity needs of various environments. With its compact design, scalability, and advanced features, it provides a robust foundation for building efficient and future-proofed networks. Whether deployed in small offices, industrial setups, or surveillance systems, this switch delivers the performance, flexibility, and manageability required in the ever-evolving landscape of networking technology.
