Description
Overview of the Cisco 48-Port Ethernet Switch
The WS-C2960S-48FPD-L Catalyst Ethernet Switch is a robust and feature-rich networking solution designed to meet the demands of modern business environments. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into its key specifications, functionalities, and applications, providing an in-depth understanding of its capabilities. From its advanced networking features, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this powerful networking device.
Design and Form Factor of Catalyst Manageable Layer 2 Optical Fiber Switch
The WS-C2960S-48FPD-L Catalyst Switch is presented in a 1U rack-mountable form factor, ensuring efficient use of space in data center environments. Its compact design makes it suitable for various deployment scenarios, and its rack-mountable nature allows for easy integration into existing network setups. The device features 48 ports supporting 10/100/1000 RJ-45 connections, offering versatility in connecting a myriad of devices such as computers, printers, and IP cameras.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) Capability
One of the standout features of this Catalyst switch is its Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability. With this technology, the switch can deliver both data and electrical power over the Ethernet cables to connected devices, eliminating the need for separate power sources. This proves particularly beneficial for devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter.
Manageability and Layer 2 Functionality
The WS-C2960S-48FPD-L is equipped with robust management capabilities, allowing network administrators to efficiently monitor and control network traffic. As a Layer 2 switch, it operates at the data link layer, facilitating the efficient management of Ethernet frames. This layer-specific functionality enhances the device’s performance in local network environments, offering a reliable and responsive networking experience.
Optical Fiber Stacking Module and XFP Ports
The inclusion of an optical fiber stacking module is a testament to the switch’s scalability and flexibility. This feature enables the creation of a high-bandwidth, resilient network by connecting multiple switches in a stack. The XFP (10 Gigabit Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus) ports further enhance the switch’s connectivity options, providing high-speed data transfer capabilities for bandwidth-intensive applications.
Enhanced Connectivity with SFP+ Ports
In addition to the XFP ports, the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L is equipped with 2x 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports, further expanding its connectivity options. These ports support Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus technology, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of SFP transceivers. The 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds offered by these ports cater to the growing demands of bandwidth-hungry applications and facilitate seamless data transmission in high-performance networks.
Use Cases and Applications
The versatility of the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L makes it suitable for various use cases across different industries. In corporate settings, it serves as a reliable backbone for connecting multiple departments, ensuring smooth data flow and communication. The PoE capability makes it an ideal choice for surveillance setups, where IP cameras can be easily deployed without the need for separate power sources. Moreover, the switch’s stacking capabilities are advantageous in environments where network scalability is a priority, such as in growing enterprises.
Security Features and Network Resilience
Security is paramount in today’s digital landscape, and the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L is equipped with features to address this concern. The switch supports advanced security protocols, including Access Control Lists (ACLs) and port security, allowing administrators to control access to the network and safeguard against unauthorized activities. Additionally, the switch’s optical fiber stacking capability contributes to network resilience by providing redundancy and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity even in the event of a link failure.
Ease of Deployment and Configuration
The deployment and configuration of the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L are designed to be user-friendly, catering to both experienced network professionals and those new to network management. The device supports industry-standard management protocols such as SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) and offers a web-based management interface, simplifying the process of monitoring and configuring the switch. This user-centric approach contributes to the overall accessibility and usability of the device.
Scalability and Future-Proofing
Scalability is a crucial consideration in network planning, and the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L is designed with scalability in mind. The stacking capabilities, high-speed ports, and PoE support contribute to the device’s ability to scale with the growing needs of a network. This scalability not only caters to current requirements but also future-proofs the network infrastructure, ensuring that the switch remains relevant and effective as the network evolves.
Security and Access Control
The WS-C2960S-48FPD-L Cisco Catalyst switch supports advanced security features and access control to ensure secure business operations.
Cisco TrustSec is one of the security features that provide network-wide access control and security grouping. This feature allows for the creation of security groups, which can be used to define access control policies for devices, users, and applications. This helps to ensure that only authorized devices and users have access to the network.
Cisco Identity-Based Networking Services (IBNS) is another security feature that offers secure and policy-based access control. It allows for the integration of identity-based security policies with network access control, providing secure access to network resources based on user identity.
In addition, the switch supports advanced security features such as:
- Cisco Security Group Access (SGA), allows for granular control over access to network resources based on the security group membership of the connecting device.
- Cisco Access Control Server (ACS), which provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) services for network access control
- Cisco Network Admission Control (NAC), which allows for the enforcement of security policies on endpoints accessing the network
These security features, along with the Cisco FlexStack, Quality of Service (QoS), and Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) capabilities, make the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L a robust and secure switch suitable for enterprise-class access and distribution layer deployments.
General Information of the Cisco WS-C2960S-48FPD-L 48 Ports Managed Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C2960S-48FPD-L
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 2960
- Product Name: Catalyst 2960 Switch
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Interfaces/Ports for Catalyst Ethernet Switch
- Total Number of Network Ports: 48
- Number of PoE (RJ-45) Ports: 48
- Stack Port: Yes
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 48 x Gigabit Ethernet Network
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 2 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Slot
Performance of Managed Switch
- Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
- Media Type Supported: Optical Fiber, Twisted Pair
Features for Ethernet Switch
- Layer 2 switching, auto-sensing per device
- dynamic IP address assignment
- Power over Ethernet (PoE), auto-negotiation
- BOOTP support, ARP support
- load balancing, VLAN support
- auto-uplink (auto MDI/MDI-X), IGMP snooping
- Syslog support, DiffServ support
- Broadcast Storm Control, IPv6 support
- Multicast Storm Control, Unicast Storm Control
- Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) support
- Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP) support
- DHCP snooping, Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) support
- Port Aggregation Protocol (PAgP) support
- Access Control List (ACL) support
- Quality of Service (QoS), PoE+
- Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), Port Security
- MAC Address Notification, Remote Switch Port Analyzer (RSPAN)
I/O Expansions for Catalyst Switch
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 3
- Expansion Slot Types: XFP, Stacking Module
- Number of XFP Slots: 2
Network & Communication
- Layer Supported: 2
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
- Management: DHCP, QoS, VLAN, SNMP v1, v2, v3, Syslog, CLI, RMON, CiscoWorks LAN Management Solution
Memory
- Standard Memory: 128 MB
- Memory Technology: DRAM
- Flash Memory: 64 MB
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included: Cisco IOS LAN Base
- Service & Support: Limited lifetime warranty
- Service & Support Details: Limited warranty – replacement – lifetime – response time: next business day, Limited warranty – power supply and fans – 5 years, New releases update
Power Description
- PoE (RJ-45) Port: Yes
- Input Voltage: 110 V AC, 220 V AC
- Power Source: Power Supply
- Redundant Power Supply: Yes
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature: 23 °F
- Max Operating Temperature: 104 °F
- Humidity Range Operating: 10 – 95% (non-condensing)
- Min Storage Temperature: -13 °F
- Max Storage Temperature: 158 °F
- Humidity Range Storage: 10 – 95% (non-condensing)
Compliant Standards
- IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3z, IEEE 802.1D, IEEE 802.1Q
- IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.1p, IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3x
- IEEE 802.3ad (LACP), IEEE 802.1w, IEEE 802.1x, IEEE 802.1s
- IEEE 802.3ah, IEEE 802.1ab (LLDP), IEEE 802.3at
In short, the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L Catalyst Ethernet Switch stands out as a reliable and feature-rich networking solution. From its physical design to its advanced capabilities, this switch caters to the diverse needs of modern business environments. Whether used in corporate networks, surveillance setups, or data centers, its combination of PoE support, manageability, and high-speed connectivity makes it a versatile and future-proof choice for organizations looking to enhance their networking infrastructure. As technology continues to evolve, the WS-C2960S-48FPD-L remains a steadfast and adaptable component in the ever-changing landscape of networking solutions.
