Description
Product Overview of Catalyst 3560E Switch
The Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E is a type of network switch made by Cisco Systems. It falls under the category of multi-layer Ethernet switches, which means it operates at both the data link layer (Layer 2) and the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. This particular model is known for its 48 ports and its ability to provide Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality, as well as its two 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GE) ports. In this article, we’ll delve into the features, specifications, and benefits of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E switch in simple terms, suitable for those who are new to networking technology.
Understanding Network Switches
Before we dive into the specifics of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of what a network switch is and how it works. A network switch is a device used in computer networks to connect devices together. It operates by receiving data from one device and forwarding it to the appropriate destination device within the network. Unlike hubs, which simply broadcast data to all connected devices, switches are more intelligent and can send data only to the intended recipient, making them more efficient in managing network traffic.
Features of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E Switch
The Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E switch comes with several features that make it a popular choice for businesses and organizations of various sizes. Let’s explore some of its key features:
- 48 Ports: This switch is equipped with 48 Ethernet ports, allowing for the connection of up to 48 devices simultaneously. These ports support both Gigabit Ethernet and Fast Ethernet speeds, providing flexibility in connecting various devices such as computers, printers, servers, and IP phones.
- Power Over Ethernet (PoE): One notable feature of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E switch is its ability to deliver Power over Ethernet (PoE) to connected devices. PoE eliminates the need for separate power sources for devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras, as the switch can provide power to these devices through the Ethernet cable itself.
- Two 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GE) Ports: In addition to the 48 Ethernet ports, this switch also includes two 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports. These high-speed ports allow for faster data transfer rates, making them ideal for connecting to other switches, routers, or servers within the network infrastructure.
- Multi-Layer Functionality: The Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E is a multi-layer switch, meaning it operates at both Layer 2 (data link layer) and Layer 3 (network layer) of the OSI model. This allows the switch to perform advanced functions such as routing and forwarding based on IP addresses, improving network efficiency and performance.
- Scalability: With its modular design and support for stacking, the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E switch offers scalability to accommodate the growing needs of a network. Stacking multiple switches allows them to function as a single logical unit, simplifying network management and providing additional ports and bandwidth as needed.
- Advanced Security Features: Security is paramount in any network environment, and the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E switch includes advanced security features to protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security threats. These features may include access control lists (ACLs), port security, and encryption protocols to safeguard sensitive information.
Specifications of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E Switch
Now, let’s take a closer look at the technical specifications of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E switch:
- Switching Capacity: The switch has a switching capacity of up to 128 Gbps (Gigabits per second), allowing for high-speed data transfer within the network.
- Forwarding Rate: It has a forwarding rate of up to 101.2 million packets per second (mpps), indicating its ability to process and forward network traffic efficiently.
- RAM and Flash Memory: The switch is equipped with 256 MB of RAM (Random Access Memory) and 64 MB of flash memory, providing storage for operating system files and configurations.
- Power Supply: The Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E switch requires an external power supply for operation. It may also support redundant power supplies for added reliability and resilience.
- Physical Dimensions: The dimensions of the switch are typically around 44.5 cm (17.5 inches) in width, 45.0 cm (17.7 inches) in depth, and 4.4 cm (1.7 inches) in height, making it suitable for rack-mounting in standard network equipment racks.
- Weight: The weight of the switch is approximately 7.7 kg (17.0 lbs), making it relatively lightweight and easy to handle during installation and maintenance.
- Operating Temperature and Humidity: The switch is designed to operate within a temperature range of 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F) and a relative humidity range of 10% to 85%, ensuring reliable performance in various environmental conditions.
- Management Interfaces: The switch supports various management interfaces, including a console port for direct configuration and management, as well as remote management capabilities through protocols such as Telnet, SSH (Secure Shell), and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol).
Benefits of the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E Switch
The Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E switch offers several benefits for organizations looking to improve their network infrastructure:
- Increased Efficiency: With its high-performance capabilities, including Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, PoE support, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplinks, the switch helps improve overall network efficiency by providing fast and reliable connectivity to devices and applications.
- Cost Savings: The inclusion of Power over Ethernet (PoE) eliminates the need for separate power sources for devices such as IP phones and wireless access points, reducing installation and maintenance costs for the network infrastructure.
- Scalability and Flexibility: The modular design and stacking capabilities of the switch make it highly scalable, allowing organizations to expand their network as needed without requiring a complete overhaul of their existing infrastructure. Additionally, the availability of 48 ports provides flexibility in connecting various devices and endpoints within the network.
- Enhanced Security: With advanced security features such as access control lists (ACLs) and port security, the switch helps organizations protect their network assets and sensitive data from unauthorized access and security threats.
- Reliability and Resilience: The Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E switch is built to deliver reliable performance in demanding network environments, with features such as redundant power supply support and high-availability protocols to minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation.
- Simplified Management: The switch offers comprehensive management capabilities through various interfaces, making it easy for network administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the network effectively. Additionally, support for protocols like SNMP enables seamless integration with network management systems for centralized control and monitoring.
Network Management and Security of Managed Switch
The WS-C3560E-48PD-E Cisco Catalyst 3560-E 48-Ports Ethernet Switch can be managed and secured using a variety of methods.
For network management, the switch can be accessed through a web interface, a command-line interface (CLI), or through a network management system (NMS) such as Cisco Prime or SolarWinds. The switch also supports a Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) for monitoring and management.
In terms of security, the switch includes features such as access control lists (ACLs) to control network access, virtual LANs (VLANs) to segment the network, and Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) for network access control. Additionally, the switch supports various security protocols such as IEEE 802.1X, Secure Shell (SSH), and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) for secure communication.
It also supports advanced security features like :
- Control Plane Policing (CoPP)
- DHCP Snooping
- Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI)
- IPv6 First Hop Security
- Port Security
- Private VLAN Edge (PVE)
- Secure Boot
- and more.
It is recommended to regularly check for firmware updates and to configure the switch securely to ensure the integrity of the network.
Automation and Programmability of 48 Ports Managed Switch
The WS-C3560E-48PD-E Cisco Catalyst 3560-E 48-Ports Ethernet Switch is a highly advanced and programmable switch that can be easily automated and controlled through a variety of different methods. One of the key ways to automate and program the switch is through the use of Cisco’s command-line interface (CLI), which allows users to input a wide range of commands and configurations to control and monitor the switch’s performance and functionality.
Another way to automate and program the switch is through the use of Cisco’s Network Assistant software, which is a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to easily configure and manage the switch through a simple and intuitive interface. This software also includes a variety of built-in templates and wizards that can be used to quickly and easily set up and configure various network scenarios and topologies.
Additionally, the switch can be automated and controlled through the use of various APIs and scripting languages, such as Python and Perl, which allow for easy integration with other network management and automation tools. This allows for even greater flexibility and control over the switch’s performance and functionality, making it an ideal choice for enterprise-level networks and data centers.
High-Performance of Ethernet Switch
The Cisco Catalyst 3560-E 48-Ports Ethernet Switch (WS-C3560E-48PD-E) is a high-performance switch that delivers advanced capabilities for enterprise-class access and distribution layer deployments. It is designed to support the growing needs of converged data, voice, and video networks, and it can be used to connect devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and video cameras.
One of the key features of this switch is its high-performance switching fabric, which provides up to 128 Gbps of non-blocking throughput. This ensures that the switch can handle large amounts of data traffic without any lag or delays. Additionally, the switch supports advanced QoS features, such as per-port rate limiting, traffic shaping, and priority queuing, which help to ensure that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need.
The WS-C3560E-48PD-E also comes with a wide range of security features, including access control lists (ACLs), Cisco TrustSec security, and 802.1x network access control. These features help to protect your network from unauthorized access and ensure that only authorized users and devices can access the network.
The switch also supports a wide range of management features, including Cisco Prime Network Control System (NCS) and Cisco Network Assistant, which make it easy to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot the switch. Additionally, the switch supports Cisco EnergyWise technology, which helps to reduce energy consumption and costs by managing the power usage of connected devices.
General Information about this Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU # WS-C3560E-48PD-E
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 3560-E
- Product Model: 3560E-48PD-E
- Product Name: Catalyst 3560E-48PD-E Multi-layer Ethernet Switch with PoE
- Product Type: Layer 3 Switch
Interfaces/Ports
- Total Number of Network Ports: 48
- Number of PoE (RJ-45) Ports: 48
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 48 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
Media & Performance
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Ethernet Technology:-Gigabit Ethernet 10, Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology:-10/100/1000Base-T,10GBase-X
I/O Expansions
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 2
- Expansion Slot Type: X2
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 3
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
- Management-
- CLI
- Telnet
- DHCP
- Syslog
- RMON
- SNMP v3
- IEEE 802.1p QoS
- IEEE 802.1Q VLAN
- Cisco Works LAN Management Solution
Memory
- Standard Memory: 128 MB
- Memory Technology: DRAM
- Flash Memory: 64 MB
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: No
- Input Voltage: 110 V AC,220 V AC
- Power Source: Power Supply
In general, the Cisco WS-C3560E-48PD-E Catalyst 3560E switch is a versatile and feature-rich networking solution designed to meet the demands of modern business environments. With its robust performance, advanced features, and scalability, it offers organizations the flexibility and reliability they need to support their growing network infrastructure. Whether it’s improving network efficiency, enhancing security, or simplifying management, this switch delivers on multiple fronts, making it an excellent choice for businesses seeking a dependable and high-performance networking solution.
