Description
Product Overview for the Cisco WS-X4013+10GE Catalyst 4500 Expansion Module
In the ever-evolving landscape of networking solutions, the Cisco WS-X4013+10GE Catalyst 4500 Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS stands out as a formidable and advanced control processor expansion module. Boasting cutting-edge technology, this module is designed to elevate network performance and control. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the key features, technical specifications, and myriad benefits that make the Cisco WS-X4013+10GE a standout choice in the realm of networking.
Key Features
- Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS: At the heart of this Cisco module lies the Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS, a powerhouse that serves as the brain of the Catalyst 4500 series. This component is crucial for managing and directing the flow of data within the network, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
- 10-Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity: One of the defining features of the WS-X4013+10GE is its support for 10-gigabit Ethernet connectivity. This high-speed capability allows for lightning-fast data transfer, making it ideal for environments with demanding network requirements, such as data centers or enterprise-level networks.
- Fast Ethernet Control Processor: The inclusion of a Fast Ethernet Control Processor further enhances the processing capabilities of this module. This processor plays a pivotal role in managing network traffic efficiently, ensuring that data is processed with speed and precision.
- Expansion Module for Scalability: Designed with scalability in mind, the WS-X4013+10GE serves as an expansion module for the Catalyst 4500 series. This allows network administrators to scale up their infrastructure as the demands of their network grow, providing a future-proof solution for evolving networking needs.
- Compatibility and Interoperability: The Cisco WS-X4013+10GE is engineered to seamlessly integrate with the Catalyst 4500 series, ensuring compatibility and interoperability with other components of the Cisco ecosystem. This cohesive integration simplifies the deployment process and promotes a unified network architecture.
Technical Specifications
- Form Factor and Dimensions: The module follows a compact form factor, making it suitable for deployment in various networking environments. Its dimensions are optimized for efficient use of rack space, with a focus on flexibility and ease of installation.
- Performance Metrics: With a Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS at its core, the WS-X4013+10GE boasts impressive performance metrics. It supports high forwarding rates, low latency, and other performance indicators that contribute to a responsive and reliable network infrastructure.
- Ethernet Ports: Equipped with 10-gigabit Ethernet ports, this module caters to the growing demand for high-speed connectivity. The Ethernet ports support various networking protocols, ensuring compatibility with a diverse range of devices and applications.
- Redundancy and Reliability Features: Cisco places a strong emphasis on the reliability of its networking solutions, and the WS-X4013+10GE is no exception. Redundancy features, such as hot-swappable components and failover mechanisms, are integrated to minimize downtime and enhance overall network reliability.
Benefits of the Cisco WS-X4013+10GE
- Enhanced Network Performance: The incorporation of advanced technologies, such as the Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS and 10-Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, translates to a significant boost in network performance. Organizations can experience faster data transfers and reduced latency, contributing to a more responsive and efficient network.
- Scalability for Future Growth: One of the standout benefits of the WS-X4013+10GE is its scalability. As businesses expand and their network requirements evolve, this module provides a scalable solution that can accommodate the growing demands of an organization. This scalability ensures that the network infrastructure remains robust and capable of handling increased workloads.
- Simplified Network Management: The WS-X4013+10GE is designed with network administrators in mind, offering simplified network management capabilities. The Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS facilitates centralized control and monitoring, streamlining the management of network resources and configurations.
- Reliability and Redundancy: Cisco has a reputation for delivering reliable networking solutions, and the WS-X4013+10GE upholds this standard. Redundancy features, such as dual Supervisor Engines and hot-swappable components, contribute to a highly reliable network infrastructure. These features are essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous operation even in the face of hardware failures.
- Interoperability with Cisco Ecosystem: The module’s seamless integration with the broader Cisco ecosystem enhances its interoperability. This compatibility ensures that the WS-X4013+10GE can work harmoniously with other Cisco components, creating a cohesive and interoperable networking environment. This interoperability simplifies the deployment process and allows organizations to leverage their existing Cisco infrastructure.
Use Cases
- Data Center Deployments: In data center environments where high-performance networking is paramount, the Cisco WS-X4013+10GE finds its stride. The module’s 10-gigabit Ethernet connectivity and robust processing capabilities make it well-suited for handling the demands of data-intensive applications and large-scale data transfers within the confines of a data center.
- Enterprise Networks: For enterprises with diverse networking needs, the WS-X4013+10GE offers a versatile solution. Whether supporting a large number of connected devices or facilitating communication between different departments, this module provides the necessary scalability and performance to meet the requirements of enterprise-level networks.
- Network Edge Deployments: In scenarios where the network edge requires a reliable and high-performance control processor, the WS-X4013+10GE shines. Its compact form factor and advanced features make it suitable for deployment at the network edge, ensuring efficient traffic management and control.
Deployment and Configuration
- Rack-Mountable Design: The Cisco WS-X4013+10GE is designed for easy installation in standard network racks. Its rack-mountable design allows for efficient use of space in data center environments and network closets.
- Hot-Swappable Components: To minimize downtime and facilitate maintenance activities, the module features hot-swappable components. This means that individual components, such as the Supervisor Engine, can be replaced without disrupting the overall operation of the network.
- Configuration and Management: Configuration of the WS-X4013+10GE is streamlined through a user-friendly management interface. Network administrators can access configuration settings, monitor performance metrics, and implement changes through the interface, ensuring efficient management of the module within the broader network architecture.
Network Topology and Architecture
The WS-X4013+10GE is a supervisor engine module for the Cisco Catalyst 4500 series of switches. It provides centralized control and management for the switch and supports advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS), Access Control Lists (ACLs), and Layer 3 routing protocols.
The WS-X4013+10GE module supports a variety of network topologies and architectures, depending on the specific needs of the network. Some common examples include:
- Single-switch topology: In this configuration, the WS-X4013+10GE module is installed in a single Catalyst 4500 switch, which serves as the core of the network. Access switches and other devices are connected to the core switch, which provides centralized management and control.
- Redundant supervisor engine topology: In this configuration, two WS-X4013+10GE modules are installed in the same switch chassis, providing redundancy for the control and management functions of the switch. If one module fails, the other can take over.
- Distributed core topology: In this configuration, multiple Catalyst 4500 switches are connected in a mesh topology, providing high-speed connectivity between different parts of the network. Each switch has its own WS-X4013+10GE module, which provides centralized management and control for that switch.
- Layer 3 routed access topology: In this configuration, the Catalyst 4500 switch with the WS-X4013+10GE module acts as a Layer 3 router, providing routing between different VLANs or subnets. Access switches and other devices are connected to the router through Layer 2 connections.
In terms of architecture, the WS-X4013+10GE module uses a distributed architecture, with separate processing engines for control and data plane functions. The control plane is responsible for managing the switch, running routing protocols, and processing management traffic. The data plane is responsible for forwarding data packets between ports and VLANs.
General Information about this Cisco WS-X4013+10GE
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Part Number or SKU# WS-X4013+10GE
- Product Type: Expansion Module
- Product Name: Cisco Catalyst 4500 Supervisor Engine II-Plus
Technical Specifications
- Application/Usage: Data Networking
Interfaces/Ports
- 1 x RJ-45 10/100/1000Base-T Management
- 1 x RJ-45 Female Console Management
Media & Performance
- Data Transfer Rate: 10 Gbps Gigabit Ethernet
I/O Expansions
Expansion Slots
- 4 x SFP (mini-GBIC) Free
- 2 x X2 Free
- 1 x CompactFlash Card Slot
Management & Protocols: Management
- Hardware-based multicast management
- Cisco Network Assistant support
- Single console port and single IP address to manage all system features
- Software configuration management, including local and remote storage
- SNMPv1, v2, and v3 instrumentation, delivering comprehensive in-band management
- CLI-based management console to provide detailed out-of-band management
- Remote Monitoring (RMON)
- Manageable through CiscoWorks
- Analysis support, including ingress port, egress port, and VLAN SPAN
- MAC Address Notification
- Remote SPAN (RSPAN)
Finally, the Cisco WS-X4013+10GE Catalyst 4500 Supervisor Engine II-Plus-10GBPS Fast Ethernet Control Processor Expansion Module emerges as a powerhouse in the realm of networking. Its combination of advanced features, scalability, and compatibility with the broader Cisco ecosystem positions it as a versatile solution for a variety of networking environments.
Whether deployed in data centers, enterprise networks, or at the network edge, the WS-X4013+10GE delivers enhanced network performance, simplified management, and the reliability that organizations demand. As technology continues to advance, Cisco remains at the forefront of networking solutions, and the WS-X4013+10GE stands as a testament to its commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of networking.
