Description
Product Overview for the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch
The Cisco WS-X5014 Switch is a type of network switch made by Cisco Systems. It’s a plug-in module designed to be installed into compatible Cisco chassis switches. This particular switch module offers Ethernet connectivity with a speed of 10 megabits per second (Mbps) and features 48 ports for connecting various devices to the network.
Understanding Ethernet and Switches
Ethernet is a common technology used for networking computers and other devices in local area networks (LANs). It allows devices to communicate with each other by sending data packets over a physical medium, such as twisted-pair copper cables or fiber optic cables.
A switch is a networking device that connects multiple devices within a LAN. It operates at the data link layer of the OSI model and uses MAC addresses to forward data to the appropriate destination device. Switches are essential for building efficient and scalable network infrastructures.
Features of Cisco WS-X5014 Switch
- 48 Ports: The Cisco WS-X5014 Switch module provides 48 ports, allowing users to connect a large number of devices to the network, such as computers, printers, servers, and other networking equipment.
- Managed Switch: This switch is managed, meaning that it offers advanced features for configuring, monitoring, and managing network traffic. Administrators can control the switch settings through a management interface, which provides greater flexibility and control over network operations.
- Plug-in Module: The Cisco WS-X5014 Switch is designed as a plug-in module that can be easily installed into a compatible Cisco switch chassis. This modular design allows for scalability and flexibility in expanding network capabilities as needed.
- Ethernet 10Mbps: The switch supports Ethernet connectivity with a speed of 10 megabits per second (Mbps). While this speed may be considered relatively slow compared to modern standards, it can still be suitable for certain network environments or legacy systems.
Benefits of Using Cisco WS-X5014 Switch
- Scalability: With 48 ports available, the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch offers scalability for growing network infrastructures. Additional switches can be added as needed to accommodate more devices and expand network requirements.
- Manageability: As a managed switch, the Cisco WS-X5014 provides administrators with granular control over network configurations and operations. This includes features such as VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, Quality of Service (QoS) prioritization, and port mirroring for monitoring network traffic.
- Reliability: Cisco is a reputable manufacturer known for producing high-quality networking equipment. The Cisco WS-X5014 Switch is built to deliver reliable performance and uptime, ensuring that critical network services remain accessible to users.
- Compatibility: The switch module is designed to work seamlessly with other Cisco networking products, including routers, firewalls, and access points. This interoperability simplifies network integration and management, allowing organizations to leverage their existing Cisco infrastructure.
Applications of Cisco WS-X5014 Switch
The Cisco WS-X5014 Switch can be used in various networking scenarios across different industries, including:
- Enterprise Networks: Large organizations can deploy the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch to connect numerous devices across multiple departments and locations. The switch’s management capabilities make it suitable for handling complex network configurations and traffic patterns.
- Data Centers: In data center environments, where high-density connectivity and reliability are paramount, the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch can serve as a foundational networking component. Its modular design enables easy expansion and integration with other data center infrastructure elements.
- Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities can benefit from deploying the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch to support their educational and administrative activities. The switch’s robust features enable secure and efficient communication among students, faculty, and staff members.
- Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs): SMBs with growing networking needs can leverage the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch to establish a stable and manageable network infrastructure. The switch’s affordability and scalability make it an attractive option for businesses looking to optimize their network performance.
Power Options and Redundancy
The WS-X5014 Cisco 48 Ports Ethernet Switching Module is a line card module that can be inserted into a Cisco Catalyst chassis to provide 48 Ethernet ports. It supports various power options and redundancy features to ensure high availability and fault tolerance in network operations.
Power options:
- The module can be connected to two separate power supplies, providing redundancy in case one power supply fails.
- The module supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) which allows it to supply power to connected devices over the Ethernet cables, eliminating the need for separate power cables.
- The module can dynamically allocate power to the ports that need it, ensuring that power is distributed efficiently among the connected devices.
- The module supports power management features that allow you to monitor power usage and adjust power settings as needed.
Redundancy:
- The module can be inserted or removed from the chassis while the system is running, without interrupting the operation of the other modules in the chassis. This feature is known as Hot-swappable.
- The module can be used with other redundancy features of the Cisco Catalyst platform, such as redundant supervisor engines and redundant power supplies, to ensure that the network continues to operate even in the event of a failure.
Security and Management
The WS-X5014 Cisco 48 Ports Ethernet Switching Module, like other Cisco network devices, includes several security and management features to help protect and manage the network.
Security features:
- Access control lists (ACLs): These allow you to restrict access to the network based on the source and destination IP addresses, protocols, and ports.
- Port Security: This allows you to limit the number of MAC addresses that can be learned on a particular port, helping to prevent MAC address spoofing attacks.
- IEEE 802.1X authentication: Allows you to authenticate users and devices before they are granted access to the network.
- Secure Shell (SSH) and Secure Copy Protocol (SCP): provide secure remote management and file transfer capabilities.
- Network Admission Control (NAC): Allows you to control access to the network based on the security posture of the connecting device.
Management features:
- SNMP: Allows you to monitor and manage the module remotely using Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
- Telnet and SSH: Provide remote management access to the module using a command-line interface.
- Cisco IOS Software: The module runs on Cisco IOS software, which provides a wide range of management and troubleshooting features, including the ability to backup and restore configuration, monitor performance, and upgrade software.
- Cisco Works: A set of management software tools that can be used to manage and monitor Cisco network devices, including the WS-X5014 module.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X5014
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-X5014
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
- Product Name: 48 Ports Switch Ethernet Module
Technical Specifications
- Total Number of Ports: 48
- Interfaces/Ports Details: 48 x RJ-45 10Base-T LAN
Media & Performance
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Ethernet Technology: Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10Base-T
Expansion/Connectivity
- Interfaces: 48 x LAN – RJ-45
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature: 32 °F
- Max Operating Temperature: 104 °F
- Humidity Range Operating: 10 – 90%
Compatibility Information
- Designed For: Cisco Catalyst 5000
Outline, the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch Ethernet 10Mbps 48 Ports Managed Plug-in Module offers a reliable and scalable solution for building efficient network infrastructures. With its 48 ports, managed capabilities, and plug-in module design, it provides organizations with the flexibility and control needed to meet their networking requirements.
Whether deployed in enterprise environments, data centers, educational institutions, or SMBs, the Cisco WS-X5014 Switch delivers high performance and reliability, backed by Cisco’s reputation for quality and innovation in networking technology.
