Description
Product Overview of the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE Ethernet Switch
The Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE Catalyst 2950 LRE Series is a member of the Catalyst 2950 family, known for its robust performance and reliability. Designed to meet the demands of modern networking environments, this Ethernet switch is equipped with advanced features that make it suitable for a variety of applications. The Catalyst 2950 Series switch is equipped with 2x 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 uplink ports, allowing for seamless connectivity with other network devices. Its expansion slots support additional modules, enhancing the switch’s versatility.
Key Features of 8 Ports Twisted Pair Switch Form Factor and Build Quality
The switch is designed to be rack-mountable, providing flexibility in deployment and optimizing space utilization within network cabinets. The durable build ensures reliability and longevity, even in demanding network environments.
8 Ports for Network Connectivity
With 8 ports, the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE provides ample connectivity for devices within the network. This feature is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a balance between port availability and efficient network management.
Uplink Ports
With 2x 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 uplink ports, the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE facilitates high-speed data transfer between switches and other network devices. These ports support Gigabit Ethernet, enabling the switch to handle large volumes of data efficiently.
Expansion Slots
The presence of expansion slots enhances the switch’s scalability. These slots can accommodate various modules, allowing users to customize the switch based on specific requirements. Whether it’s additional ports or advanced features, the expansion slots provide room for future upgrades.
LRE Technology
The Long-Reach Ethernet technology employed by the Catalyst 2950 LRE Series enables the switch to extend Ethernet connectivity over existing twisted-pair cabling. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments where installing new cabling is impractical or cost-prohibitive.
Ethernet Switching
With 8 ports, the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE offers an efficient solution for connecting multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). The switch supports standard Ethernet protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of network devices.
Gigabit Uplinks
The inclusion of Gigabit uplink ports allows for high-speed connections between switches or other networking devices. This is essential for reducing bottlenecks and ensuring fast and reliable data transfer within the network.
Twisted Pair Technology
The switch supports twisted-pair cabling, a commonly used and cost-effective solution for networking. This compatibility makes it easier for organizations to integrate the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE into their existing network infrastructure without the need for significant upgrades.
Performance and Efficiency
The Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE is designed to deliver optimal performance and efficiency in various networking scenarios. Understanding how it achieves this can help organizations make informed decisions about its deployment.
Enhanced Bandwidth
With 8 ports supporting Ethernet connectivity, the switch provides the necessary bandwidth to accommodate multiple devices simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial in office environments where numerous computers, printers, and other networked devices need to be connected.
Low Latency
Low latency is crucial for applications that demand real-time data transfer, such as video conferencing and online gaming. The Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE’s efficient design helps minimize latency, ensuring responsive communication between devices.
Quality of Service (QoS)
The switch supports Quality of Service features, allowing organizations to prioritize specific types of traffic. This ensures that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth, preventing network congestion and maintaining a consistent user experience.
Reliability and Redundancy
Reliability is a key consideration in networking equipment. The Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE is built with redundancy features to enhance network reliability. This includes features such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), which prevents network loops and improves overall system stability.
Use Cases and Applications
Understanding where the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE excels in terms of applications and use cases is essential for organizations looking to deploy this switch. Let’s explore some common scenarios where this switch proves to be advantageous.
Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)
The compact size and cost-effectiveness of the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE make it an ideal choice for small to medium-sized businesses. It provides the necessary features for efficiently managing a local network without the complexity and cost associated with larger enterprise switches.
Network Backbone Connectivity
The 2x 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 uplink ports make the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE an ideal choice for network backbone connectivity. These high-speed ports ensure that the switch can handle the increased data flow between different segments of the network, promoting a smooth and responsive networking environment.
Server Connections
Businesses relying on servers for critical operations can benefit from the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE’s high-speed uplink ports. Connecting servers to these ports ensures that data can be transferred swiftly, reducing latency and enhancing the overall performance of server-based applications.
Scalable Network Infrastructure
The inclusion of expansion slots makes the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE a scalable solution for businesses with evolving networking needs. Organizations can customize the switch by adding modules or features, adapting to changes in technology, and expanding their network infrastructure seamlessly.
High Performance of Catalyst 2950 LRE Series Switch
The Cisco 8-Ports 2950-based Long Reach Ethernet Switch (WS-C2950ST-8-LRE) is designed to provide reliable and high-performance switching capabilities for small to medium-sized businesses and branch offices. The switch is built with high-quality components and is backed by Cisco’s reputation for producing reliable networking equipment.
The product switch is designed to provide high-performance switching for Ethernet networks, with support for 10/100Mbps data rates and full-duplex operation. It also supports advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS), access control lists (ACLs), and Cisco IOS Firewall, which provide a high level of security against cyber threats.
The switch also includes a range of management and monitoring tools, such as SNMP and RMON, which allow administrators to easily configure and manage the device. Additionally, it has an intuitive and easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI) that allows for simple and easy setup and management.
In terms of performance, the product switch is designed to handle high-traffic loads and can forward packets at full wire speed without any data loss. This means that businesses can expect high-performance and stable network connections for all their devices connected to the switch.
Exceptional Reliability
The Cisco 8-Ports 2950-based Long Reach Ethernet Switch (WS-C2950ST-8-LRE) is a reliable and robust device that is designed to provide advanced switching capabilities for small to medium-sized businesses and branch offices. The switch is built with high-quality components and is backed by Cisco’s reputation for producing reliable networking equipment.
The product switch offers a wide range of features and capabilities that make it an ideal choice for businesses that require a high level of connectivity and security. It includes advanced security features, such as access control lists (ACLs) and IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, which provide a high level of security against cyber threats. Additionally, the switch is equipped with advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, which allow businesses to prioritize traffic and ensure that mission-critical applications receive the bandwidth they need.
The switch also features a user-friendly web interface that allows administrators to easily configure and manage the device. Additionally, it has an intuitive and easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI) that allows for simple and easy setup and management.
The product switch provides Long Reach Ethernet (LRE) capabilities which allows businesses to extend Ethernet services over existing telephone copper wiring for a distance of up to 2 miles, which is ideal for businesses that need to connect to remote locations.
General Information about this Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE Ethernet Switch
- Manufacturer: Cisco
- Model Number or SKU# WS-C2950ST-8-LRE
- Product Line: Catalyst
- Product Series: 2950
- Product Type: Ethernet Switch
Technical Information for 8 Ports Ethernet Switch
- Total Number of Network Ports: 8
- Uplink Port: Yes
- Port/Expansion Slot Details: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet
Performance
- Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair
- Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
I/O Expansions
- Number of Total Expansion Slots: 2
- Expansion Slot Type: SFP
- Number of SFP Slots: 2
Management & Protocols
- Manageable: Yes
Power Description
- Power Source: Power Supply
- Redundant Power Supply Supported: Yes
Finally, the Cisco WS-C2950ST-8-LRE Catalyst 2950 LRE Series Ethernet Switch stands out as a reliable and versatile networking solution. Its Long-Reach Ethernet technology, port configuration, and expansion capabilities make it a valuable asset for businesses seeking efficient and future-ready networking solutions. Whether deployed in enterprise networks, remote locations, or as part of an upgrade strategy for legacy infrastructure, this switch offers the performance, reliability, and security that Cisco is renowned for in the realm of networking equipment. As technology continues to advance, the WS-C2950ST-8-LRE remains a steadfast choice for those looking to build or enhance their network infrastructure.
