Description
Product Overview for the Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP Catalyst 4500 48 Ports Switch
The Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP is a significant component within the Catalyst 4500 Series, designed to meet the evolving needs of modern networking. This switch module is specifically engineered to provide high-performance Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) connectivity, supporting 48 ports of 10/100Base-X Fast Ethernet. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the key features, specifications, and applications of the Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP switch module.
Key Features
- 48 Ports for Versatile Connectivity: The WS-X4248-FE-SFP boasts 48 ports, providing a robust and scalable solution for network connectivity. This extensive port capacity allows for the seamless integration of numerous devices, making it suitable for both small and large-scale network deployments.
- Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) Compatibility: The use of SFP technology enhances the module’s versatility. SFP allows for hot-swappability, enabling network administrators to replace or upgrade individual ports without disrupting the entire network. Additionally, the SFP interface supports a variety of optical and copper transceivers, offering flexibility in selecting the most suitable medium for data transmission.
- 10/100Base-X Fast Ethernet Support: With support for 10/100Base-X Fast Ethernet, the WS-X4248-FE-SFP delivers reliable and high-speed data transfer capabilities. This is essential for meeting the bandwidth requirements of modern applications and ensuring a responsive and efficient network infrastructure.
- Scalability and Modular Design: The modular design of the Catalyst 4500 Series, including the WS-X4248-FE-SFP module, provides scalability for growing network demands. Administrators can add or replace modules based on evolving requirements, thus future-proofing their network infrastructure.
Specifications
- Form Factor: The WS-X4248-FE-SFP module is designed to fit seamlessly into the Catalyst 4500 Series chassis, ensuring compatibility and ease of installation. The form factor aligns with industry standards, facilitating integration into various network environments.
- Forwarding Rate: This switch module offers a high forwarding rate, a crucial metric for assessing its performance capabilities. The forwarding rate indicates the speed at which the switch can process and forward data packets, contributing to low latency and efficient data transfer within the network.
- Layer 2 and Layer 3 Support: The WS-X4248-FE-SFP supports both Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionalities, providing the flexibility to operate in different network configurations. Layer 2 features include VLAN support, while Layer 3 capabilities enable routing, enhancing the module’s adaptability to diverse network architectures.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Options: Some variants of the Catalyst 4500 Series support Power over Ethernet (PoE), which allows the WS-X4248-FE-SFP to deliver power to connected devices such as IP cameras and VoIP phones. This feature eliminates the need for separate power sources for these devices, simplifying cabling and infrastructure.
Applications
- Enterprise Networks: The WS-X4248-FE-SFP is well-suited for enterprise networks with its high port density, scalability, and support for various SFP transceivers. It can efficiently handle the diverse connectivity requirements of an enterprise, providing a stable and high-performance network foundation.
- Data Centers: In data center environments, where high-speed and reliable connectivity is paramount, the WS-X4248-FE-SFP proves valuable. Its modular design allows data center administrators to adapt the network infrastructure to changing workloads and connectivity demands.
- Educational Institutions: Educational institutions, from schools to universities, benefit from the WS-X4248-FE-SFP’s scalability and flexibility. The module can support the diverse networking needs of educational environments, facilitating seamless communication and access to online resources.
- IP Surveillance Systems: With PoE support, the WS-X4248-FE-SFP is an excellent choice for IP surveillance systems. It simplifies the deployment of surveillance cameras by providing both data connectivity and power over the same Ethernet cable, reducing installation complexity and cost.
Scalable and Reliable Networking
The WS-X4248-FE-SFP Cisco Catalyst 4500 48 Ports Ethernet Switch is designed for scalable and reliable networking. The switch is built on the Cisco Catalyst 4500 series platform, which is known for its reliability, performance, and scalability.
One of how the switch is scalable is through its support for Cisco StackWise technology. StackWise allows multiple switches to be connected and managed as a single unit, increasing the available ports and providing redundancy. This means that as the network grows, additional switches can be added to the stack without disrupting the existing network.
The switch also has many features that contribute to its reliability. For example, it supports redundant power supplies, which ensure that the switch continues to operate even if one of the power supplies fails. Additionally, it has a feature called Flexible NetFlow, which allows for monitoring of network traffic and identifying potential issues, helping to prevent network downtime.
Furthermore, the switch supports advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, which allow for prioritization of different types of traffic, ensuring that mission-critical applications receive the bandwidth they need. This helps to prevent network congestion, which can cause delays and disruptions in service.
Network Scalability and Performance
The WS-X4248-FE-SFP Cisco Catalyst 4500 48 Ports Ethernet Switch is designed for network scalability and performance. One of the key features that contribute to this is its support for Cisco StackWise technology. StackWise allows multiple switches to be connected and managed as a single unit, increasing the available ports and providing redundancy. This means that as the network grows, additional switches can be added to the stack without disrupting the existing network.
The switch also provides high-speed connectivity, as it comes with 48 Fast Ethernet ports with an SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) interface for fiber connectivity. This allows for high-speed data transfer and expanding network capacity.
Additionally, the switch supports advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, which allow for prioritization of different types of traffic, ensuring that mission-critical applications receive the bandwidth they need. This helps to prevent network congestion, which can cause delays and disruptions in service.
The switch also supports advanced security features, such as access control lists (ACLs) and port security, which help to protect the network from unauthorized access and potential attacks. This helps to ensure that the network remains secure and stable, even as it grows in size.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-X4248-FE-SFP
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
- Product Name: Catalyst 4500 48-Port 100Base-x (SFPS Optional)
- Line Extension: Catalyst
- Series Extension: 4500
Technical Specifications
- Enclosure Type: Plug-in module
- Subtype: Fast Ethernet
- Compatible Slots: 1 x Expansion Slot
- Ports: 48 x SFP
- Features: Flow control
- Compliant Standards: IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.3ah
Expansion / Connectivity
- Interfaces: 48 x SFP (mini-GBIC)
Miscellaneous
- Compliant Standards: NEBS level 3, FCC Class A certified, EN 60950, IEC950, UL 1950, VCCI Class A ITE, EN55024, CSA 22.2 No. 950, EN55022 Class A, FCC Part 15
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature: 0 °C
- Max Operating Temperature: 40 °C
- Humidity Range Operating: 10 – 90%
Compatibility Information
- Designed For: Cisco Catalyst 4503, 4506, 4507R
Finally, the Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP Catalyst 4500 Series 48 Ports Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) 10/100Base-X Fast Ethernet Switch Module stands as a robust and versatile solution for modern networking requirements. Its extensive port capacity, SFP compatibility, and support for Fast Ethernet make it a valuable component in various network scenarios, from enterprise environments to data centers and educational institutions. The modular design and scalability ensure that the WS-X4248-FE-SFP can adapt to the evolving needs of today’s dynamic network infrastructures, providing a reliable foundation for efficient data transfer and communication. As technology continues to advance, the Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP remains a key player in the realm of network switches, contributing to the seamless connectivity and performance of diverse networks.





