Description
Product Overview of the Cisco Ethernet 48 Ports Switch
In the world of networking, the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L Catalyst 3850 stands out as a powerful and versatile solution. Designed to meet the demands of modern businesses, this switch offers 48 ports of Ethernet connectivity, advanced manageability features, and Layer 2 support. In this detailed guide, we will explore the key aspects of the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L, from its hardware specifications to its management capabilities, helping you understand how it can benefit your network infrastructure.
Understanding Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series
Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series Layer 2 switches are renowned for their robust performance, advanced features, and scalability. The WS-C3850-48T-L is a member of this series, specifically designed to deliver high-speed, reliable, and secure network connectivity.
Key Features48 Ports for Enhanced Connectivity
The switch comes equipped with 48 Ethernet ports, providing ample connectivity options for various devices within a network. This high port density is crucial for environments with a large number of connected devices.
Layer 2 Support for Efficient Network Management
Layer 2 support is a fundamental feature that enables the switch to operate at the data link layer of the OSI model. This allows for the efficient and reliable communication between devices on the same network. The Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L is optimized for Layer 2 functionality, making it suitable for various networking scenarios.
Ethernet Manageability
The switch’s Ethernet manageability is a key feature that simplifies the configuration and monitoring of the network. This is particularly important for administrators who need to have granular control over the network infrastructure.
Scalability for Growing Networks
One of the standout features of the Catalyst 3850 Series is its scalability. The WS-C3850-48T-L can seamlessly scale to accommodate the growing demands of a network. This is crucial for businesses experiencing expansion or organizations that require a flexible and scalable network infrastructure.
Advanced Security Features
One of the standout features of the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L is its advanced manageability. The switch can be easily configured and monitored through a user-friendly interface, providing network administrators with the tools they need to optimize performance and troubleshoot issues efficiently.
High Performance with Cisco IOS Software
The switch operates on Cisco’s IOS (Internetwork Operating System) software, known for its reliability and performance. This ensures that the switch can handle the demands of a busy network, providing consistent and high-speed data transfer.
Energy-Efficient Design
Cisco is committed to environmental sustainability, and the WS-C3850-48T-L reflects this with its energy-efficient design. The switch is optimized for power consumption without compromising on performance, making it an environmentally friendly choice for businesses.
Enhanced Security
Security is a top priority in any network infrastructure, and the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L doesn’t disappoint. With support for advanced security protocols and features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), the switch helps safeguard your network against unauthorized access and potential cyber threats.
High Performance
Businesses today demand high-performance networking solutions, and the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L delivers. With its Gigabit Ethernet ports, the switch ensures fast and reliable data transfer, supporting the increasing demands of modern applications and services.
Scalability
As your business grows, so does the demand on your network. The Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L is designed with scalability in mind, allowing you to expand your network seamlessly by adding more switches or devices without compromising performance
Technical Specifications
Let’s delve into the technical specifications of the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L to gain a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities.
Switching Capacity and Forwarding Bandwidth
The WS-C3850-48T-L boasts a substantial switching capacity, which is the maximum amount of data the switch can handle at any given moment. Additionally, it offers impressive forwarding bandwidth, ensuring smooth and efficient data flow within the network.
RAM and Flash Memory
Memory is a critical aspect of any network device. This switch is equipped with a certain amount of RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory. Sufficient RAM ensures smooth operation, while flash memory is essential for storing the operating system and configurations.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
Understanding the physical dimensions and weight of the switch is crucial, especially when planning for installation in a network rack or cabinet. This information is vital for ensuring that the switch can be accommodated in the available space.
Power Supply and Consumption
The power supply details and power consumption of the WS-C3850-48T-L are essential considerations for businesses aiming to optimize energy usage and reduce operational costs. The switch may support various power input options and should align with the organization’s power infrastructure.
Redundancy and Reliability Features
To ensure uninterrupted network services, the switch incorporates redundancy features. These may include redundant power supplies and fans, minimizing the risk of downtime due to hardware failures.
Deployment Scenarios
Understanding how the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L can be deployed in various scenarios is crucial for network architects and administrators. Here are some common deployment scenarios:
Enterprise Networks
In large enterprises with extensive network requirements, the WS-C3850-48T-L can serve as a core switch, providing the necessary connectivity for a multitude of devices, including computers, servers, and other networking equipment.
Data Centers
Data centers demand high-performance switches to handle the vast amounts of data generated and processed. The switch’s scalability, advanced features, and reliability make it suitable for deployment in data center environments.
Educational Institutions
Campus networks in educational institutions require switches that can handle a large number of concurrent connections. The WS-C3850-48T-L, with its high port density and Layer 2 support, is well-suited for such environments.
Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)
For SMBs with growing network needs, the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L provides an ideal balance of performance and scalability. Its user-friendly manageability features make it suitable for businesses without dedicated IT staff.
General Information about the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C3850-48T-L
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 3850
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Interfaces/Ports for 48 Ports Switch
- Stack Port: Yes
- Total Number of Network Ports: 48
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 48 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
Performance of Ethernet Switch
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
I/O Expansions
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 1
- Network and Communication:
- Layer Supported: 2
Management and Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: No
- Input Voltage: 110 V AC, 220 V AC
Finally, the Cisco WS-C3850-48T-L Catalyst 3850 is a versatile and powerful network switch suitable for a wide range of deployment scenarios. Its combination of high port density, Layer 2 support, advanced security features, and scalability makes it a reliable choice for enterprises, data centers, educational institutions, and SMBs alike. Whether you are configuring it through the CLI or GUI, monitoring through SNMP, or troubleshooting with Cisco TAC support, the WS-C3850-48T-L offers a comprehensive solution for building and maintaining a robust network infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, Cisco remains at the forefront, providing innovative solutions to meet the ever-growing demands of modern networking.
