Description
Understanding of the Catalyst Layer 3 Gigabit Ethernet 8 Ports Switch
In the world of networking, efficient and reliable switches play a crucial role in ensuring seamless communication and data transfer. One such device that stands out is the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Catalyst Switch. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricate details of this switch, breaking down its features, specifications, and applications in simple English. Whether you’re a networking enthusiast or a professional looking for the right switch for your infrastructure, this guide aims to provide you with a clear understanding of what the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Catalyst Switch has to offer.
Overview of WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Catalyst Managed Switch
The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is a Catalyst Switch designed for versatility and efficiency. Let’s break down its key features:
Port Configuration: 8 Ports
This switch comes equipped with 8 ports, providing flexibility in connecting multiple devices. Whether it’s computers, printers, or other networking devices, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L ensures you have ample ports for your connectivity needs.
Rack-mountable and Wall Mountable
The switch is designed to be versatile in its placement. You can easily mount it on a rack for organized and space-efficient installations. Alternatively, if space is a constraint, the wall-mountable feature comes in handy, allowing you to optimize the use of available space.
Gigabit Ethernet Twisted Pair Uplink Ports (2x)
For high-speed data transfer, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is equipped with 2 Gigabit Ethernet Twisted Pair Uplink Ports. This ensures that your network can handle large volumes of data with efficiency, reducing lag and improving overall performance.
Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) Ports (2x) for Optical Fiber
In addition to the Twisted Pair Uplink Ports, this switch features 2 Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) Ports. These ports support optical fiber connections, offering an alternative for environments where fiber optics are preferred or required for long-distance data transmission.
Manageability
The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is a manageable switch, providing administrators with control and oversight over the network. This manageability is essential for configuring settings, monitoring performance, and ensuring the security of the network.
Design and Form FactorRack-Mountable and Wall-Mountable
The switch’s design is versatile, allowing for both rack-mountable and wall-mountable installations. This flexibility is particularly advantageous in environments where space optimization is essential. The ability to mount the switch on a wall or within a standard network rack enhances deployment options, making it adaptable to various networking scenarios.
Compact Form Factor
The compact form factor of the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L makes it suitable for deployments in constrained spaces. The switch’s dimensions and design are optimized for efficiency without compromising on performance. This is especially valuable in scenarios where space is at a premium, such as small offices or branch locations.
Management CapabilitiesNetwork Management
The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L switch is designed with robust network management capabilities, allowing administrators to efficiently monitor and control the network. It supports various management protocols, including Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and Command Line Interface (CLI), providing flexibility in managing and configuring the switch according to the specific needs of the network.
VLAN Support
Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) support is a crucial feature for network segmentation and management. The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L switch enables the creation of multiple VLANs, allowing administrators to logically segment the network for enhanced security and improved traffic management. This capability is especially beneficial in large networks with diverse connectivity requirements.
Quality of Service (QoS)
Ensuring optimal performance for critical applications is essential in modern networks. The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L supports Quality of Service (QoS) features, enabling administrators to prioritize traffic based on application requirements. This ensures that mission-critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and are not adversely affected by less time-sensitive traffic.
Security Features
Network security is a top priority in any environment. This Catalyst switch incorporates security features such as port security, DHCP snooping, and Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) to protect against various network threats. These features help in preventing unauthorized access, mitigating potential security risks, and ensuring the integrity of the network infrastructure.
Applications and Use Cases
Understanding the applications and use cases of the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is crucial for determining whether it’s the right fit for your networking needs.
Small to Medium-sized Businesses
For small to medium-sized businesses with a moderate number of devices to connect, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L offers an optimal solution. Its 8 ports provide sufficient connectivity for workstations, printers, and other essential devices in a business environment.
Flexible Placement in Various Environments
The switch’s ability to be both rack-mountable and wall-mountable makes it suitable for a variety of environments. Whether it’s a server room with limited space or an open office layout, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L can be adapted to fit the available space.
High-Speed Data Transfer
With 2 Gigabit Ethernet Twisted Pair Uplink Ports, this switch is well-suited for applications that require high-speed data transfer. This includes scenarios where large files need to be transferred quickly, such as in multimedia production or data backup environments.
Optical Fiber Connectivity for Extended Reach
The inclusion of 2 Small Form-Factor plugable (SFP) Ports for optical fiber connectivity makes the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L suitable for environments where data needs to be transmitted over longer distances. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with distributed offices or those requiring connections between buildings.
Comparison with Similar Products
The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is a Cisco Catalyst Layer 3 managed switch with 8 ports. Some similar products that may be compared to it include:
WS-C2960CX-8TC-L: This is another Cisco Catalyst Layer 3 managed switch with 8 ports, but it has a different feature set and may be a better option for certain types of networks.
WS-C2960X-24TS-L: This is a Cisco Catalyst Layer 2 managed switch with 24 ports and may be a better option for networks that require more ports.
HP ProCurve 2920-48G Switch: This is a Layer 3 managed switch from HP with 48 ports and may be a good option for networks that require a non-Cisco solution.
Power and Environmental Considerations
Power and environmental considerations are important factors to consider when selecting and deploying a Cisco Catalyst Layer 3 8 Ports Managed Switch like the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L.
Power: The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L requires a power supply with a voltage range of 100-240V AC and a maximum power consumption of 63.4W. It also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) for powering connected devices, with a total PoE power budget of 370W.
Environmental: The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L has an operating temperature range of 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C) and a storage temperature range of -40°F to 158°F (-40°C to 70°C). It is also designed to operate in environments with a relative humidity range of 10% to 90% non-condensing.
It is important to ensure that the power and environmental conditions in the deployment location are compatible with the requirements of the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L. If the switch is deployed in an area with extreme temperatures or humidity, it may not function properly or may be damaged. Additionally, if the power supply or PoE budget is not sufficient for the number of connected devices, the switch may not be able to provide power to all devices.
General Information of the Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L 8 Ports Managed Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C2960CX-8PC-L
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 2960-CX
- Product Type Layer 3 Switch
Interfaces for 8 Ports Switch
- Total Number of Network Ports: 10
- Token Ring Port: No
- LRE Port: No
- Uplink Port: Yes
- Bypass: No
- Modular: No
- Management Port: No
- USB: No
- Number of PoE+ (RJ-45) Ports: 10
- Stack Port: No
Port/Expansion Slot Details
- 2 x Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Slot
- 8 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
- 2 x Gigabit Ethernet Uplink
Performance of Layer 3 Switch
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair, Optical Fiber
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T, 1000Base-X
I/O Expansions for Ethernet Switch
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 2
- Expansion Slot Type: SFP
- Shared SFP Slot: No
- Number of SFP Slots: 2
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 3
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
- Management:
- DHCP
- RMON
- VLAN
- SNMP v1, 2c, 3
- Telnet
- CLI
- QoS
Memory
- Standard Memory: 512 MB
- Memory Technology: DRAM
- Flash Memory: 128 MB
Reliability
- MTBF: 569,530 Hours
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: Yes
- Input Voltage: 230 V AC, 120 V AC
- Power Source: Power Supply
Outline, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Catalyst Switch is a versatile and efficient networking solution with features tailored to meet the demands of modern connectivity. Whether you’re looking to enhance the performance of your small to medium-sized business network or seeking a reliable switch for specific applications, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L stands out as a robust and adaptable choice. Its combination of port flexibility, mounting options, high-speed data transfer capabilities, and manageability make it a valuable asset in the realm of networking technology. As you explore the possibilities for your network infrastructure, consider the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L as a reliable and feature-rich solution that can contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of your connectivity ecosystem.
