Cisco WS-C3650-24PS-L

Key Features of the Cisco WS-C3650-24PS-L:

1. 24 Ports:

   • The “24” in the model number refers to the 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps). These ports allow fast, reliable connectivity for a variety of network devices, and each port is capable of handling high-speed data transmission.

2. Power over Ethernet (PoE):

   • The “PS” in the model number indicates that this model supports PoE (Power over Ethernet), which is essential for powering devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras directly through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power supplies.
   • The WS-C3650-24PS-L provides up to 370W of total PoE power, which can be allocated across all 24 ports depending on the requirements of the connected devices. This is particularly useful for organizations looking to deploy a large number of PoE devices.

3. Layer 3 Routing Capabilities:

   • Like other models in the Cisco Catalyst 3650 series, the WS-C3650-24PS-L supports Layer 3 routing, meaning it can perform functions such as Inter-VLAN routing, dynamic routing protocols (e.g., OSPF, EIGRP), and static routing. This allows it to route traffic between different VLANs, making it more suitable for complex network architectures that require both switching and routing functionalities.

4. Stackable Design:

   • This model supports Cisco’s StackWise-160 technology, which enables stacking of multiple 3650 switches to create a single logical unit. This provides enhanced scalability, redundancy, and simplified management. When stacked, switches act as one, making it easier to manage the network and handle increased traffic demands.
   • The stacking bandwidth of 160 Gbps ensures minimal performance impact even when switches are stacked, ensuring consistent throughput.

5. Advanced Security Features:

   • The WS-C3650-24PS-L offers a wide range of security features, such as 802.1X authentication, Port Security, Access Control Lists (ACLs), and Dynamic ARP Inspection.
   • These features help prevent unauthorized access to the network and protect it from various types of attacks.

6. Cisco IOS XE Software:

   • The switch runs on Cisco IOS XE, a highly modular, advanced operating system that provides features for routing, security, and network management. Cisco IOS XE also supports various features related to SDN (Software-Defined Networking), cloud-based network management, and automation, providing network administrators with more flexibility.

7. Quality of Service (QoS):

   • QoS is a critical feature for optimizing network traffic. The WS-C3650-24PS-L can prioritize different types of traffic (e.g., voice, video, and data) to ensure high-priority applications receive the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance. This is especially important in environments that use VoIP (Voice over IP) and video conferencing.

8. Multicast Support:

   • The WS-C3650-24PS-L supports multicast routing protocols, making it suitable for applications like video streaming, IPTV, and conferencing, which require efficient delivery of data to multiple recipients simultaneously.

9. Management and Monitoring:

   • The WS-C3650-24PS-L can be managed through various methods, including:
     • Cisco Prime Infrastructure for centralized management.
     • CLI (Command-Line Interface) for advanced users who prefer a command-based interface.
     • Web-based GUI for simpler management and monitoring.
     • SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for integration with network monitoring and management platforms.
   • These management options make it easier to configure and monitor the switch in both small and large networks.

10. Performance and Redundancy:

    • With Layer 3 capabilities, stacking support, and PoE functionality, the WS-C3650-24PS-L offers a highly resilient and high-performance platform for modern network architectures.
    • The stacking capability and redundancy features make it ideal for businesses that require continuous uptime and seamless scaling.

Summary of Specifications:

• Ports: 24 x 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports (Gigabit Ethernet)
• PoE Power: Up to 370W (providing PoE+ on 24 ports)
• Stacking: Yes, using Cisco StackWise-160 technology (up to 9 switches per stack)
• Layer 3 Features: Inter-VLAN routing, OSPF, EIGRP, static routing, etc.
• Security: 802.1X, ACLs, Port Security, Dynamic ARP Inspection
• Operating System: Cisco IOS XE
• Management: CLI, Web-based GUI, SNMP, Cisco Prime Infrastructure
• Form Factor: Rack-mounted (1U)
• Performance: High throughput, low latency, suitable for demanding network environments
• Multicast Support: Yes, IGMP, PIM, etc.

Use Cases:

1. Enterprise Networks:

   • The WS-C3650-24PS-L is an excellent fit for businesses that need high-performance, scalable switches with built-in PoE capabilities. It can be used in the core or distribution layers of the network to support various devices such as VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras.

2. Small to Medium-sized Deployments:

   • It is ideal for smaller branch offices or remote locations where PoE-enabled devices are essential. The switch provides the necessary power to devices while also handling routing, switching, and network traffic management.

3. Voice and Video Solutions:

   • With support for PoE, QoS, and Multicast, this model is great for environments using VoIP phones and video conferencing systems, where quality and network reliability are crucial.

4. Campus and Building Networks:

   • The WS-C3650-24PS-L can be used in large enterprise buildings or campuses that require high-speed networking, PoE support, and the ability to handle various types of traffic (data, voice, video).