Cisco WS-C2950G-24-EI

Key Features of Cisco WS-C2950G-24-EI:

1. 24 Gigabit Ethernet Ports:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI offers 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps), providing high-speed connectivity for devices like desktops, servers, and other networked equipment.
   • This makes it suitable for smaller to medium-sized networks, offering fast data transfer speeds for day-to-day networking activities.

2. Advanced Layer 2 Features:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI primarily operates as a Layer 2 switch, which is used for Ethernet frame switching within the same VLAN.
   • It supports advanced Layer 2 features such as:
     • VLANs (Virtual LANs): You can create and manage multiple VLANs to logically segment traffic on your network for better security and performance.
     • Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): Prevents network loops by dynamically detecting redundant paths in your network and blocking them where necessary.
     • Port Aggregation (EtherChannel): Allows for combining multiple ports to increase the overall bandwidth between switches or between a switch and a router.

3. Gigabit Uplink Ports:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI comes with 2 Gigabit SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) uplink ports, which allow for fiber-optic connectivity between switches or to upstream routers.
   • These uplink ports enable faster long-distance connections and can help improve network performance, especially in larger network setups.

4. Power over Ethernet (PoE):

   • While the WS-C2950G-24-EI does not provide built-in PoE (Power over Ethernet) capabilities, it does support Cisco’s Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality in certain PoE-enabled models of the 2950 series (e.g., WS-C2950G-24-PWR).
   • PoE can deliver both power and data over the same Ethernet cable to power devices like IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras.

5. Enhanced Security Features:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI includes several security features to protect the network and manage access:
     • Port Security: Restrict access to the network by controlling which devices can connect to specific ports based on their MAC address.
     • 802.1X Authentication: Offers port-based access control to prevent unauthorized devices from gaining network access.
     • Access Control Lists (ACLs): ACLs help to filter traffic based on specific criteria such as IP address, VLAN, and port.

6. Cisco IOS Software:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI runs on Cisco IOS software, the operating system that powers Cisco’s networking devices. IOS provides a broad range of features, including network security, traffic management, and remote management.
   • The EI in the model name indicates that this switch comes with Enhanced Image version of IOS, which supports additional features over the basic IOS image, including more advanced security features and network management.

7. Reliability and Redundancy:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI supports redundant power supply options to ensure uptime in critical network environments.
   • Additionally, the Gigabit uplink ports allow for creating a more redundant and fault-tolerant network by interconnecting switches, improving resilience and reliability.

8. Compact Form Factor:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI comes in a 1U (1 Rack Unit) form factor, making it a space-efficient solution that fits into standard 19-inch server racks. It is ideal for environments where rack space is limited but high-performance switching is needed.

9. Network Management:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI can be managed through several interfaces, including the Command Line Interface (CLI), which is available via Telnet, SSH, or console port.
   • It also supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), which allows network administrators to manage and monitor the device remotely using SNMP management tools.

Hardware Specifications of Cisco WS-C2950G-24-EI:

• Ports:
  • 24 x Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps)
  • 2 x Gigabit SFP uplink ports (for fiber-optic connections)
• Switching Capacity: 16 Gbps
• Forwarding Rate: 12.0 million packets per second (mpps)
• Power Consumption: 75W
• Cooling: Internal fan for cooling.
• Form Factor: 1U (Rackmount, 19-inch wide)
• Dimensions: 1.73 x 17.5 x 10.5 inches (44 x 445 x 267 mm)
• Weight: 4.8 kg (10.6 lbs)

Use Cases for Cisco WS-C2950G-24-EI:

1. Enterprise Access Layer:

   • The WS-C2950G-24-EI is primarily used as an access switch in enterprise networks, connecting end devices like computers, printers, and phones to the network.
   • With its 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, it provides ample connectivity for medium-sized businesses or departments within larger enterprises.

2. Small to Medium-Sized Business (SMB):

   • This model is also a great option for SMBs that need reliable, cost-effective networking with Gigabit Ethernet speeds for connecting multiple devices.
   • It offers sufficient ports for smaller offices or remote branches looking for robust and manageable Layer 2 switching.

3. Data Center Edge:

   • In data center environments, the WS-C2950G-24-EI can serve as an edge switch, helping to connect servers and storage devices to the core network.
   • The Gigabit SFP uplinks allow for fiber-optic connections, ideal for high-speed connections to core switches or aggregation layers.

4. Campus Networks:

   • The switch can also be deployed as an edge switch in campus network environments, where it connects various departments, floors, or buildings within an office or educational institution.

5. Security and Segmentation:

   • With VLAN support and port security features, the WS-C2950G-24-EI can be used to segment traffic and enhance network security by isolating sensitive data and controlling access to various parts of the network.