Description
Product Overview of Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Ethernet Switching Module
In the realm of networking, Ethernet switching modules play a critical role in facilitating communication between devices within a network. Among the plethora of options available, the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Catalyst 6500 Series Ethernet Switching Module stands out as a versatile and high-performance solution. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the features, specifications, benefits, and potential use cases of the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Ethernet Switching Module.
Understanding Ethernet Switching Modules
Before delving into the specifics of the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module, it’s essential to understand the fundamental concept of Ethernet switching. Ethernet switching involves the process of forwarding data frames between devices within a local area network (LAN). Switches are crucial components in modern network infrastructure, providing connectivity and facilitating communication between computers, servers, printers, and other networked devices.
Unveiling of Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Module
The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 is an Ethernet switching module designed for use with the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series switches. This module expands the capabilities of the Catalyst 6500 Series switches by providing additional Ethernet ports for connecting end devices to the network. With a total of 48 ports supporting 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet, the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module offers scalability, flexibility, and high-speed connectivity for diverse networking requirements.
Key Features of the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Module
- 48 Ethernet Ports: The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module features 48 RJ-45 ports, allowing for the connection of up to 48 Ethernet-enabled devices such as computers, servers, IP phones, and networked appliances.
- 10/100/1000Base-T Support: Each port on the module supports auto-negotiation for 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet speeds, enabling seamless connectivity for devices with varying bandwidth requirements.
- Hot-Swappable Design: The hot-swappable nature of the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module allows for easy installation and replacement without disrupting network operations, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous service availability.
- High Performance: With support for Gigabit Ethernet speeds and advanced switching capabilities, the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module delivers high-performance connectivity for demanding network environments.
- Compatibility with Catalyst 6500 Series Switches: Designed specifically for use with Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series switches, the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module seamlessly integrates with existing network infrastructure, providing a cost-effective solution for expanding port density.
- Layer 2 and Layer 3 Support: The module supports both Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching functionalities, enabling efficient traffic forwarding, VLAN segmentation, and IP routing within the network.
Performance Specifications
In addition to its key features, the performance specifications of the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module are essential considerations for evaluating its suitability for specific networking requirements. Let’s examine some of the performance metrics associated with this module:
- Switching Capacity: The switching capacity of the module determines the maximum amount of data that can be forwarded through the switch per unit of time. The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module offers high switching capacity, ensuring smooth and efficient data transmission across the network.
- Forwarding Rate: The forwarding rate, often measured in millions of packets per second (Mpps), indicates the speed at which the switch can process and forward data packets. The WS-X6548-RJ-45 module boasts a fast-forwarding rate, minimizing latency and optimizing network performance.
- Buffer Memory: Buffer memory plays a crucial role in handling bursts of network traffic and preventing packet loss during periods of congestion. The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module is equipped with sufficient buffer memory to accommodate traffic spikes and maintain smooth data flow.
- Latency: Low latency is essential for ensuring responsive network performance, particularly in real-time applications such as voice and video communication. The WS-X6548-RJ-45 module offers low-latency switching, providing an optimal user experience for latency-sensitive applications.
- Quality of Service (QoS) Support: QoS features enable the prioritization of network traffic based on predefined criteria, ensuring that critical applications receive preferential treatment over less time-sensitive traffic. The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module supports advanced QoS mechanisms, allowing for effective traffic management and optimization of network resources.
Use Cases and Applications
The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Ethernet Switching Module is well-suited for a variety of networking scenarios across different industries. Some common use cases and applications include:
- Enterprise Networks: In large enterprise environments, where numerous devices need to be connected to the network, the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module provides scalability and flexibility to accommodate growing connectivity requirements. It can be used to expand port density in corporate LANs, data centers, and campus networks.
- Data Center Infrastructure: Within data center environments, high-speed connectivity and reliable performance are paramount. The Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module facilitates the deployment of servers, storage systems, and networking equipment in data center racks, enabling efficient data processing and communication.
- Unified Communications: With support for Gigabit Ethernet speeds and advanced QoS features, the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module is ideal for supporting unified communications applications such as voice-over IP (VoIP) and video conferencing. It ensures high-quality voice and video transmissions by prioritizing real-time traffic and minimizing latency.
- Network Edge Deployment: At the network edge, where access switches connect end-user devices to the network, the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module serves as a cost-effective solution for expanding port capacity and enhancing connectivity for desktops, laptops, printers, and other peripherals.
- Service Provider Networks: Service providers can leverage the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module to deliver high-speed Ethernet connectivity to customers, whether for broadband internet access, metro Ethernet services, or enterprise network connections. The module’s scalability and performance make it suitable for deployment in service provider edge and aggregation networks.
Revolutionize Your Network
The WS-X6548-RJ-45 is a Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series switch module that provides 48 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports for connecting devices to the network. It can be used to revolutionize networks by providing high performance, scalability, and advanced features.
One of the ways the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module can revolutionize a network is by providing a high-density solution for Ethernet access and aggregation. With 48 ports in a single module, it allows organizations to reduce the number of devices needed to support their network, which can save on costs and rack space.
Another way the module can revolutionize a network is through its support for advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS), VLANs, and Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP). These features allow organizations to better control and manage network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need while also reducing congestion on the network.
The module also supports Cisco’s StackWise technology, which allows multiple switch modules to be combined and managed as a single unit. This feature provides increased scalability and simplifies the management of the network.
Additionally, the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module also supports the Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) standard, which reduces power consumption during periods of low network activity. This feature allows the switch to enter a low-power idle state when there is no network traffic, reducing energy consumption without affecting network performance.
Security and Compliance
The WS-X6548-RJ-45 is a Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series switch module that provides 48 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports for connecting devices to the network. It also provides various security and compliance features to help organizations protect their network and meet regulatory requirements.
One of the key security features of the WS-X6548-RJ-45 module is support for Cisco’s IOS Software security features, which provide a range of security capabilities such as access control, firewall, VPN, and intrusion prevention. These features can be configured to provide a comprehensive security solution for the network.
Another important feature is support for Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), which is a platform for network access control. ISE allows administrators to create policies that control access to the network based on factors such as user identity, device type, and location. This feature helps to ensure that only authorized users and devices can access the network, and helps to prevent network breaches.
Additionally, the module also supports compliance features such as IPv6 First Hop Security, which helps to prevent IPv6-based attacks such as rogue router advertisements.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-X6548-RJ-45
- Product Name: 48 Ports-Switching Module
- Product Type: Switching Module
Technical Information for Switching Module
- Application/Usage: Switching Network
Interfaces/Ports
- Interfaces/Ports: 48 x 10/100Base-TX LAN
- Interfaces/Ports: Details 48 x RJ-45 Female 10/100Base-TX LAN
Media & Performance
- Connectivity Media: Category 5 UTP
- Connectivity Media: Category 5e UTP
- Connectivity Media: Category 6 UTP
- Connectivity Media: 100 ohm STP
- Distance Supported: 328 ft Category 5 UTP Full-duplex
- Distance Supported: 328 ft Category 5e UTP Full-duplex
- Distance Supported: 328 ft Category 6 UTP Full-duplex
- Distance Supported: 328 ft 100 ohm STP Full-duplex
- Data Transfer Rate: 10 Mbps Ethernet Half/Full-duplex
- Data Transfer Rate: 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet Half/Full-duplex
Management & Protocols
- Management
- Network Management:
- ETHERLIKE-MIB (RFC 1643)
- IF-MIB (RFC 1573)
- Bridge MIB (RFC 1493)
- CISCO-STACK-MIB
- CISCO-VTP-MIB
- CISCO-CDP-MIB
- RMON MIB (RFC 1757)
- CISCO-PAGP-MIB
- CISCO-STP-Extensions-MIB
- CISCO-VLAN-Bridge-MIB
- CISCO-VLAN-Membership-MIB
- CISCO-UDLDP-MIB
- CISCO-ENTITY-FRU-CONTROL-MIB
- CISCO-COPS-CLIENT-MIB
- ENTITY-MIB (RFC 2037)
- HC-RMON
- RFC1213-MIB (MIB-II)
- SIMON-MIB
- Protocols TCP/IP
- Protocols STP
- Memory
- Memory 1 MB Buffer Memory Per Port Installed
- Controls/Indicators
- Status Indicators Status
- Link good
Environmental Conditions
- Temperature 32°F (0°C) to 104°F (40°C) Operating
- Temperature -40°F (-40°C) to 167°F (75°C) Storage
- Humidity 10% to 90% Non-condensing Relative Humidity
- Altitude -196.84 ft to 13123.32 ft Operating
In general, the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 Catalyst 6500 Series Ethernet Switching Module offers a robust and versatile solution for expanding port capacity and enhancing network connectivity in diverse environments. With its 48 ports supporting 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet, hot-swappable design, high performance, and compatibility with Catalyst 6500 Series switches, this module addresses the evolving networking needs of organizations across various industries. Whether deployed in enterprise LANs, data centers, unified communications environments, or service provider networks, the Cisco WS-X6548-RJ-45 module delivers reliability, scalability, and performance to meet the demands of modern networking applications.