WS-C2960-24-S

Key Features:

1. 24 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Ports:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S provides 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps), which can connect a wide range of devices like computers, printers, IP phones, and wireless access points.
   • These Gigabit Ethernet ports provide reliable, high-speed network connectivity for users in small office or branch office environments.

2. Layer 2 Switching:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S operates primarily as a Layer 2 switch, meaning it deals with the switching of Ethernet frames based on MAC addresses.
   • It supports basic Layer 2 features like VLANs (Virtual LANs) for segmenting network traffic and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to prevent loops and ensure a fault-tolerant network.

3. Cisco IOS Software:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S runs Cisco IOS Software, which is a stable, feature-rich operating system used to manage Cisco network devices. It supports various networking protocols like VLANs, Spanning Tree, and QoS (Quality of Service).
   • The Cisco IOS provides an intuitive command-line interface (CLI) for configuration, along with other tools like Cisco Device Manager (GUI) for easier management.

4. Stackable:

   • Like other models in the Catalyst 2960 Series, the WS-C2960-24-S supports stacking. With Cisco StackWise technology, multiple switches can be combined into a single, logical unit to improve network scalability and provide redundancy.
   • Stacking allows administrators to manage multiple switches as if they were a single device, simplifying configuration and reducing operational complexity.

5. PoE (Power over Ethernet):

   • The WS-C2960-24-S does not support PoE (Power over Ethernet). It only provides data connectivity through its 24 Ethernet ports and does not have the capability to provide power to connected devices, such as IP phones or wireless access points.
   • If PoE is needed, you would need to choose a model like the WS-C2960-24PC-S or WS-C2960-24P-L, which includes PoE support.

6. Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE):

   • The switch is designed with energy efficiency in mind and supports Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) technology. EEE reduces the power consumption of the switch during periods of low network activity, helping to reduce energy costs in a data center or network environment.

7. Security Features:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S includes Cisco security features like:
     • Port Security: Limits the number of devices that can be connected to a switch port, helping to secure access to the network.
     • Access Control Lists (ACLs): Allows network administrators to filter traffic and control which users or devices can access specific network resources.
     • 802.1X Authentication: Provides secure network access control, ensuring that only authenticated devices can connect to the network.
     • DHCP Snooping: Protects against rogue DHCP servers and ensures that only valid DHCP servers can provide IP addresses.

8. Quality of Service (QoS):

   • The switch supports QoS (Quality of Service) features to ensure that important network traffic, such as voice, video, and critical applications, receive higher priority over other less-sensitive traffic. This is important in environments where real-time services like VoIP and video conferencing need to perform optimally.
   • Traffic shaping and traffic policing can also be configured to manage the flow of traffic and reduce congestion on the network.

9. Simple Network Management:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S can be managed via Cisco Network Assistant or the Cisco Device Manager, which provide graphical interfaces for easier switch configuration and monitoring.
   • It also supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), allowing integration with third-party network management systems for advanced monitoring and alerting.

10. Support for Basic Layer 3 Features:

    • While primarily a Layer 2 switch, the WS-C2960-24-S includes basic Layer 3 capabilities, such as static routing. This allows the switch to route traffic between different VLANs or subnets, providing basic inter-VLAN routing functionality.
    • However, it does not support advanced dynamic routing protocols such as OSPF or EIGRP. For more advanced routing capabilities, you would need a switch from the Catalyst 2960X or 2960XR series.

Specifications:

• Ports: 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports (10/100/1000 Mbps)
• Switching Capacity: 16 Gbps
• Forwarding Rate: 11.9 Mpps (Million packets per second)
• Power Consumption: Approximately 55W (without PoE)
• Software Image: Cisco IOS LAN Base
• Redundancy: Supports hot-swappable fan modules and redundant power supplies in PoE-enabled models
• Dimensions: 1.73 x 17.5 x 10.5 inches (44 x 445 x 267 mm)
• Weight: Approximately 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs)

Use Cases:

1. Small to Medium-Sized Networks:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S is a good fit for small office or branch office environments that require basic Layer 2 switching capabilities without the need for PoE or advanced Layer 3 routing.
   • Its 24 ports provide adequate connectivity for a small office with various devices like PCs, printers, and networked devices.

2. Enterprise Edge Switch:

   • As part of a larger enterprise network, the WS-C2960-24-S can function as an access switch for connecting end-user devices, such as desktops, laptops, and IP phones.
   • It can also be used in environments where the need for advanced routing features is not critical.

3. Converged Networks (Without PoE):

   • While this model does not support PoE, it is an excellent choice in networks where power isn’t needed directly from the switch. It can be part of a converged network where devices are powered through other means (e.g., separate power adapters for IP phones or access points).

4. Educational and SMB Environments:

   • The WS-C2960-24-S is often deployed in educational institutions or small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMBs) where simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness are top priorities.

Differences from Other Models in the 2960 Series:

• No PoE: As mentioned, the WS-C2960-24-S does not provide Power over Ethernet (PoE), which is a significant difference compared to other models in the 2960 Series, like the WS-C2960-24PC-S or WS-C2960-24P-L, which support PoE for powering devices directly from the switch.
• Limited Layer 3 Features: The WS-C2960-24-S only provides basic static routing and lacks the advanced dynamic routing protocols that are available in other models, such as those in the 2960X or 2960XR series.
• Lower Switching Capacity: The WS-C2960-24-S offers a lower switching capacity compared to models like the 2960X series, which offer higher port densities and more advanced features for large-scale enterprise environments.