Description
Overview of the Cisco WS-C2950-12 Managed Switch
The WS-C2950-12 is a model of the Cisco Catalyst 2950 Series, which is a line of managed Ethernet switches. The “12” in the model name indicates that it has 12 ports, which can be used to connect devices such as computers and servers to the network. The Cisco WS-C2950-12 is a part of the Catalyst 2950 Series, known for its robust performance and reliable networking solutions. This managed switch is equipped with 12 RJ-45 LAN ports, supporting both Ethernet 10Base-T and Ethernet 100Base-TX technologies.
12 x Ethernet Ports
The Cisco WS-C2950-12 features 12 Ethernet ports, making it suitable for environments requiring multiple network connections. These ports facilitate the seamless integration of various devices into the network, such as computers, printers, and other networking peripherals.
10Base-T and 100Base-TX Support
One of the notable characteristics of this switch is its support for both 10Base-T and 100Base-TX technologies. This dual support ensures versatility in network configurations, accommodating both older and newer devices. The 10Base-T standard supports Ethernet connections at 10 Mbps, while the 100Base-TX standard allows for faster data transfer at 100 Mbps.
Managed Switch Capabilities
As a managed switch, the WS-C2950-12 offers advanced capabilities for network administrators. It allows for the configuration and monitoring of network settings, enabling customization to meet specific requirements. This level of control enhances the overall efficiency and security of the network. Being a managed switch, the Cisco WS-C2950-12 provides administrators with a higher degree of control and flexibility over their networks. Unlike unmanaged switches, which operate with a plug-and-play approach, managed switches offer advanced features, including VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) configuration, Quality of Service (QoS) settings, and the ability to monitor network traffic.
RJ-45 Connectors
The inclusion of RJ-45 connectors in the Cisco WS-C2950-12 ensures compatibility with standard Ethernet cables. RJ-45 connectors are widely used in networking and telecommunications applications, providing a secure and reliable connection for data transmission.
Robust Design for Reliability
Cisco is synonymous with reliability, and the WS-C2950-12 is no exception. Built with durability in mind, this switch is designed to withstand the rigors of continuous operation. Its robust construction ensures a stable and uninterrupted network connection, minimizing downtime and enhancing overall network performance.
Scalability for Growing Networks
With 12 Ethernet ports, the Cisco WS-C2950-12 offers scalability for growing networks. As businesses expand and add more devices to their infrastructure, having a switch with multiple ports becomes crucial. This scalability feature ensures that the switch can adapt to the evolving needs of the network without requiring a complete overhaul of the existing setup.
The switch is designed with scalability in mind, making it suitable for growing networks. With 12 ports, it provides flexibility for expanding network infrastructure and accommodating additional devices and users as needed.
Network Optimization
The managed switch capabilities of the Cisco WS-C2950-12 empower administrators to optimize the network for better performance. With features like VLAN support and QoS settings, administrators can tailor the network to suit the specific requirements of the organization.
Enhanced Network Performance
The Cisco WS-C2950-12, with its support for high-speed Ethernet standards and QoS features, contributes to enhanced network performance. This is particularly beneficial in environments where data-intensive applications and multimedia content demand reliable and efficient data transmission.
Improved Reliability
The robust design of the Cisco WS-C2950-12 contributes to improved reliability. Businesses and organizations can depend on this switch for a stable and consistent network connection, minimizing disruptions and downtime.
Cost-Efficiency
While offering advanced features, the Cisco WS-C2950-12 remains a cost-effective solution for network management. Its energy-efficient operation also contributes to long-term cost savings by reducing power consumption.
Benefits and Features
The WS-C2950-12 Cisco Catalyst 2950 Series 12 Ports Managed Switch is a Layer 2 switch that provides a range of features and benefits to help support and manage an enterprise network. Some of the main features and benefits include:
- VLAN support: The switch supports Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), which allows for the segmentation of a single physical network into multiple logical networks. This improves network security and performance by isolating different types of network traffic. Virtual LANs (VLANs) are a crucial aspect of modern network management. The Cisco WS-C2950-12 supports VLANs, enabling the segmentation of a network into virtual sub-networks. This feature enhances network security and performance by logically isolating different groups of devices.
- Quality of Service (QoS): The switch supports QoS, which allows for the prioritization of different types of network traffic. This ensures that important traffic, such as voice and video, is given priority over less important traffic, such as file transfers. The switch is equipped with Quality of Service capabilities, allowing administrators to prioritize network traffic. This is particularly beneficial in environments where certain types of data, such as voice or video, require higher priority to ensure a seamless user experience.
- Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP): The switch supports LACP, which allows for the bundling of multiple physical ports into a single logical link. This increases bandwidth and provides redundancy in the event of a single port failure.
- Enhanced Security: The switch supports various security features such as Access Control List (ACL) and Secure Shell (SSH) which will help to secure the switch and the connected devices
- Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE): The switch supports EEE which reduces power consumption by putting the switch into a low-power idle state when there is no network traffic.
- The switch also supports various advanced features such as RSTP, MSTP, SNMP, and other features which makes it suitable for small to medium-sized enterprise networks.
Digital Workplace of 2950 Series Switch
The WS-C2950-12 Cisco Catalyst 2950 Series 12 Ports Managed Switch provides a variety of interfaces that can be used to connect devices in a digital workplace. These interfaces include:
- Ethernet Ports: The switch has 12 Ethernet ports, which can be used to connect devices such as computers, servers, and printers to the network. These ports support speeds of up to 100 Mbps and are auto-negotiating, meaning they can automatically detect the speed and duplex settings of the connected device.
- Management Interface: The switch can be configured and managed through a web interface or command-line interface. This allows for easy setup and ongoing maintenance of the switch and connected devices.
- SNMP: The switch supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), which allows for the monitoring and management of the switch and connected devices through a network management system. This can provide valuable information such as traffic statistics, error rates, and other performance metrics.
- RSTP, MSTP: The switch supports RSTP (Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol) and MSTP (Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol) which helps to prevent loops in the network and allow for fast convergence in case of a failure
- SSH: The switch supports Secure Shell (SSH) which allows for secure remote access to the command-line interface for management and configuration of the switch.
General Information about this Cisco Ethernet Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C2950-12
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 2950
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Interfaces & Ports
- Number of Ports: 12
- Fast Ethernet Port: Yes
- Interfaces/Ports: 12 x RJ-45 10/100Base-TX LAN
- Interfaces/Ports: 1 x RJ-45 Console Management
Performance
- Connectivity Media: Category 5 UTP 100Base-TX
- Connectivity Media: Category 3, 4, 5 UTP 10Base-T
- Performance: Up to 2.4Gbps Forwarding Bandwidth
- Performance: 1.8Mpps Forwarding Rate for 64-byte Packet
- Performance: 8.8Gbps Switching Fabric
Memory
- Standard Memory: 16MB
- Flash Memory: 8MB
Power Description
- Input Voltage: 110V AC
- Input Voltage: 220V AC
- Input Voltage Range: 100V AC to 127V AC
- Frequency: 50 Hz to 60 Hz
- Power Consumption: 30 W Operating
- Power Source: Power Supply
In short, the Cisco WS-C2950-12 Catalyst 2950 Series Managed Switch emerges as a versatile and dependable networking solution. From its 12 Ethernet ports supporting both 10Base-T and 100Base-TX to its advanced managed features like VLAN support and Quality of Service, this switch caters to the diverse needs of modern networks. Its design, performance, and reliability make it a valuable asset for small to medium-sized businesses, educational institutions, and remote offices. As networking technology continues to advance, the Cisco WS-C2950-12 remains a steadfast option for those seeking a balance of functionality, scalability, and ease of management in their network infrastructure.
