Description
Product Overview for the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX 16 Ports Ethernet Module
The Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX is a noteworthy addition to the Catalyst 6500 Series, designed to enhance network connectivity with its impressive features. This Ethernet module is specifically tailored for high-performance networking, offering 16 ports of 1000Base-T Gigabit Ethernet. In this detailed exploration, we’ll delve into the key aspects of the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX, from its technical specifications to its practical applications.
Technical Specifications
Let’s start by dissecting the technical specifications of the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX module. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities and how it fits into various network setups.
- Port Configuration: The module boasts 16 ports, each supporting 1000Base-T Gigabit Ethernet. This configuration is ideal for scenarios requiring a substantial number of high-speed connections, such as data centers, enterprise networks, and critical infrastructure setups.
- Compatibility: The WS-X6516-GE-TX is designed to seamlessly integrate with the Catalyst 6500 Series, ensuring compatibility and ease of deployment for users already invested in Cisco’s networking infrastructure. This interoperability enhances the scalability and flexibility of existing network architectures.
- Throughput and Performance: With a focus on high-performance networking, the module delivers impressive throughput, enabling the swift transfer of data across the network. This is crucial for applications that demand low latency and high bandwidth, such as real-time communication and data-intensive tasks.
- Layer 2 and Layer 3 Support: The WS-X6516-GE-TX supports both Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols, expanding its versatility in different networking environments. Whether it’s basic switching or advanced routing, this module provides the necessary features to meet diverse network requirements.
- Hot-Swappable Design: One notable feature of the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX is its hot-swappable design. This means that the module can be replaced or added without powering down the entire system. This enhances system reliability and minimizes downtime during maintenance or upgrades.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) Support: For networks requiring Power over Ethernet capabilities, the module offers a solution by providing support for PoE. This feature is advantageous for powering devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and other PoE-enabled devices directly through the Ethernet ports.
Use Cases
Understanding the potential applications of the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX is crucial for network administrators and decision-makers. Let’s explore various use cases where this Ethernet module can play a pivotal role.
- Data Center Deployments: In modern data centers, where speed and reliability are paramount, the WS-X6516-GE-TX finds its place. The 16 ports of Gigabit Ethernet facilitate the rapid transfer of large volumes of data, supporting the demanding workloads of data-intensive applications.
- Enterprise Networks: Large enterprises with extensive networking requirements can benefit from the WS-X6516-GE-TX module. Its scalability and compatibility with the Catalyst 6500 Series make it a valuable asset for building robust and efficient enterprise networks.
- Video Surveillance Systems: Security is a top priority for many organizations, and the WS-X6516-GE-TX’s PoE support makes it suitable for video surveillance deployments. This module can power and connect multiple IP cameras, creating a comprehensive and scalable surveillance infrastructure.
- Voice over IP (VoIP) Implementations: VoIP systems rely on stable and high-speed network connections for clear and uninterrupted communication. The Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX, with its Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensures that VoIP traffic flows smoothly, guaranteeing a reliable communication infrastructure.
- High-Performance Computing (HPC) Environments: In environments where high-performance computing is essential, such as scientific research or engineering simulations, the WS-X6516-GE-TX provides the necessary network support. Its ability to handle large data transfers efficiently contributes to the overall performance of HPC clusters.
Benefits and Advantages
Investing in the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX module brings forth several benefits and advantages that contribute to the overall efficiency and reliability of a network infrastructure.
- Scalability: The modular design of the Catalyst 6500 Series, coupled with the WS-X6516-GE-TX module, allows for seamless scalability. As network requirements grow, additional modules can be added without overhauling the entire infrastructure.
- Reliability and Redundancy: The hot-swappable design of the WS-X6516-GE-TX enhances system reliability by minimizing downtime during maintenance or upgrades. Additionally, the Catalyst 6500 Series supports redundant configurations, further ensuring network availability.
- Performance Optimization: With its 16 ports of Gigabit Ethernet, the module significantly improves network performance. The high throughput and low latency make it suitable for applications demanding quick data transfers, contributing to a responsive and efficient network.
- Compatibility with Cisco Ecosystem: For organizations already invested in Cisco networking solutions, the WS-X6516-GE-TX seamlessly integrates into the existing ecosystem. This compatibility simplifies deployment and management, leveraging the familiarity of Cisco’s operating systems and interfaces.
- Versatility in Use Cases: The module’s support for both Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols, along with Power over Ethernet capabilities, enhances its versatility. This flexibility makes the WS-X6516-GE-TX suitable for a wide range of applications, from basic switching to advanced routing and power distribution.
Network Management and Security Features
The WS-X6516-GE-TX Cisco Catalyst 16 Ports Ethernet Module is a high-performance device that provides advanced network management and security features.
For network management, the switch supports Cisco IOS Software, which provides a comprehensive set of tools for configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting the switch. Additionally, the switch supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), which allows for the remote monitoring and management of the switch. The switch also supports the Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP), which allows for the discovery of neighboring Cisco devices and the collection of device information.
For security, the switch supports a variety of features such as:
- Access Control Lists (ACLs) allow for the filtering of incoming and outgoing traffic based on specified criteria.
- Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) allow for the segmentation of a network into smaller, more manageable subnets.
- Port security which allows for the restriction of access to specific ports based on MAC address.
- IEEE 802.1x which allows for the authentication of devices connecting to the switch.
- Secure Shell (SSH) which provides a secure method for remotely accessing the switch.
- Cisco TrustSec which allows for secure communication between devices on the network.
Powerful and Reliable Switching
The WS-X6516-GE-TX Cisco Catalyst 16 Ports Ethernet Module is a powerful and reliable switching device that provides high performance and scalability.
The switch is equipped with 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports, which provide high-speed connectivity for devices on the network. The ports support both full-duplex and half-duplex operation, allowing for maximum flexibility and efficiency. Additionally, the switch supports Quality of Service (QoS) which allows for the prioritization of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
The switch also supports Cisco FlexStack, which allows for the stacking of multiple switches to provide increased bandwidth and redundancy. This feature allows for easy scalability as the network grows and allows for the management of the stack as a single entity.
The switch also supports advanced features such as Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) and Link Aggregation Groups (LAGs) which bundle multiple physical interfaces into a single logical interface, providing increased bandwidth and redundancy.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-X6516-GE-TX
- Product Name: Catalyst 6500 Series 1000Base-T GIGABIT Ethernet Module
- Product Type: Switching Module
Technical Information for Switching Module
- Application/Usage: Switching Network
Interfaces/Ports
- Interfaces/Ports Details: 16 x RJ-45 Female 10/100/1000Base-T LAN
Performance
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Twisted Pair Cable Standard Category: 5
- Twisted Pair Cable Standard Category: 5e
- Twisted Pair Cable Standard Category: 6
- Maximum Distance Supported: 328 ft
- Maximum Data Transfer Rate: 100 Mbit/s
Miscellaneous
Additional Information
- QoS Port Architecture (Rx/Tx): 1p1q4t/1p2q2t
- Backplane Connection: Switch fabric and bus
- Scheduler: Weighted Round Robin (WRR)
- Forwarding: Centralized, support for Distributed Cisco Express Forwarding (dCEF) with optional daughter card
- Performance/Forwarding Rate (Mpps): 256 Gbps; Up to 30 Mpps per system (15 Mpps per slot for slots upgraded with DFC to support distributed forwarding)
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature: 32 ¡F
- Max Operating Temperature: 104 ¡F
- Humidity Range Operating: 10 – 90%
- Max Altitude Operating: 13120 ft
Compatibility
- Catalyst 6500 Series
- Supervisor Engine Supported:
- Supervisor Engine 1A
- Supervisor Engine 2
- Supervisor Engine 720
Finally, the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX Catalyst 6500 Series 1000Base-T Gigabit 16 Ports Ethernet Module stands as a testament to Cisco’s commitment to delivering high-performance networking solutions. With its impressive technical specifications, versatile applications, and seamless integration into the Catalyst 6500 Series, this module addresses the evolving needs of modern network infrastructures.
Network administrators and decision-makers looking to enhance their networks with a reliable and scalable solution should consider the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX. From data centers to enterprise networks and specialized deployments like video surveillance and VoIP, this Ethernet module offers the performance and flexibility required in today’s dynamic and demanding networking environments.
As technology continues to advance, and networking requirements evolve, Cisco remains at the forefront of innovation, providing solutions like the WS-X6516-GE-TX to empower organizations with the tools they need to build robust and efficient networks. Whether you’re planning a new network deployment or upgrading an existing infrastructure, the Cisco WS-X6516-GE-TX deserves careful consideration for its contribution to network speed, reliability, and overall performance.
