Cisco WS-C2960X-48TS-LL

Key Features of Cisco WS-C2960X-48TS-LL:

1. 48 Gigabit Ethernet Ports:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL features 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps), which makes it ideal for connecting a large number of devices to the network, such as computers, printers, and other networked devices.
   • Gigabit Ethernet ensures that devices can communicate at high speeds, making it well-suited for high-traffic environments where fast data transmission is needed.

2. 4 Gigabit SFP Uplink Ports:

   • The switch includes 4 Gigabit SFP uplink ports (Small Form-factor Pluggable), providing flexibility for network uplinks over fiber-optic cables.
   • These SFP ports can be configured with a variety of SFP modules to suit different networking needs, whether for short or long-distance fiber-optic connections.
   • This is particularly useful for connecting to other switches or network devices over greater distances than copper-based Ethernet cables would allow.

3. Layer 2 and Basic Layer 3 Functionality:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL primarily operates as a Layer 2 switch, which is used for switching Ethernet frames within the same VLAN. It can support features like VLANs (Virtual LANs), STP (Spanning Tree Protocol), and Link Aggregation.
   • While this model is primarily a Layer 2 switch, it does offer basic Layer 3 functionality, such as static routing, RIP (Routing Information Protocol), and Inter-VLAN routing. This allows the switch to perform routing between VLANs within the same device, which is helpful in smaller or simpler network environments.

4. Enhanced Power over Ethernet (PoE) and PoE+ Capabilities:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL does not provide built-in PoE (Power over Ethernet) functionality, but it does offer PoE+ support in other models within the 2960-X series (e.g., WS-C2960X-48FPD-L).
   • PoE+ allows the switch to deliver both power and data over the same Ethernet cable to PoE-compatible devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras, simplifying installations and reducing the need for separate power sources.

5. High Availability with Redundant Power Supply (RPS):

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL is compatible with Cisco’s Redundant Power Supply (RPS) options, providing added resilience and high availability in environments where uptime is critical.
   • An RPS can be added to the switch to ensure that power is supplied continuously in the event of a power failure, reducing the risk of network outages.

6. Cisco StackPower Technology:

   • The 2960-X series supports Cisco StackPower technology, which allows multiple switches to share power resources when stacked. This feature helps optimize power usage and provides redundancy if one power supply fails.
   • This is beneficial in larger networks that require stacked configurations for increased port density and flexibility.

7. Advanced Security Features:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL provides various security features to ensure the integrity of the network. These include:
     • 802.1X Authentication: Provides port-based access control to prevent unauthorized devices from accessing the network.
     • Dynamic ARP Inspection: Protects against certain types of attacks, such as ARP spoofing.
     • IP Source Guard: Enhances network security by ensuring that only devices with valid IP addresses can communicate on the network.
     • Access Control Lists (ACLs): Helps control the traffic that is allowed or denied on the network based on criteria such as IP address, port, and protocol.

8. Energy-Efficient Ethernet (EEE):

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL is designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE). This reduces power consumption during periods of low traffic, making it a more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solution for your network.

9. Cisco IOS Software:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL runs on Cisco IOS software, which is a widely used and reliable network operating system known for its robustness and feature set.
   • Cisco IOS offers various capabilities for managing, monitoring, and securing your network, and it is supported by a broad ecosystem of management tools, including Cisco Prime and Cisco DNA Center.

Hardware Specifications of Cisco WS-C2960X-48TS-LL:

• Ports:
  • 48 x Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000)
  • 4 x Gigabit SFP uplink ports (for fiber-optic connections)
• Switching Capacity: Up to 216 Gbps (Gigabits per second).
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 107.1 million packets per second (mpps).
• Power: Compatible with Cisco Redundant Power Supply (RPS) for high availability.
• Cooling: Comes with internal fans that provide cooling for optimal performance.
• Dimensions: 1RU (Rack Unit) form factor, fitting into standard 19-inch racks for easy deployment in data centers or server rooms.
• Power Consumption: Energy-efficient design with support for Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE).

Use Cases for Cisco WS-C2960X-48TS-LL:

1. Enterprise Access Layer:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL is ideal for the access layer in enterprise networks, where it connects end devices like desktop computers, printers, and VoIP phones to the network.
   • It is suitable for environments where fast Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and a reliable Layer 2 switching solution are required.

2. Small-to-Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs):

   • This switch is also an excellent choice for SMBs that need to upgrade their network infrastructure without investing in more complex, higher-end models. The 2960-X series offers a combination of affordability and reliability.

3. Campus Networks:

   • The WS-C2960X-48TS-LL can be used as a distribution layer or core layer switch in a campus network, where it connects different building or floor networks.
   • With its basic Layer 3 capabilities, it can also perform Inter-VLAN routing to route traffic between different VLANs within the same switch.

4. Data Center Access Switch:

   • The switch can be used as an edge switch in a data center environment, providing connectivity for servers, storage devices, and other networked equipment that require Gigabit Ethernet connections.

5. Cost-Effective Solution for VoIP and Wireless Networks:

   • The 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports and advanced security features make it well-suited for VoIP and wireless networking environments where prioritizing traffic and securing devices is important.