Overview of the DS-C9396V-96IVK9P

The ​​DS-C9396V-96IVK9P​​ is a Cisco Catalyst switch module designed for ​​high-density, high-performance enterprise networks​​, particularly those requiring Power over Ethernet (PoE) and advanced security. While Cisco’s public documentation is limited, dissecting the part number offers clues:

• ​​“DS-C”​​: Indicates a Catalyst Switch component.
• ​​“9396V”​​: Likely denotes 96 ports or compatibility with a high-density chassis.
• ​​“96IV”​​: Suggests ​​96 intelligent ports​​ with enhanced features like PoE++.
• ​​“K9P”​​: Refers to ​​premium security licensing​​ (K9) and PoE capabilities (P).

This module targets large-scale deployments needing ​​scalable power and data delivery​​, such as campuses, IoT hubs, or data centers.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The DS-C9396V-96IVK9P is engineered for demanding environments. Key inferred specifications include:

• ​​Port configuration​​:
  • 48x 1G/10G RJ45 ports (PoE++ support).
  • 48x 1G/10G SFP ports for fiber connectivity.
  • 6x 40G QSFP+ uplinks (configurable as 24x 10G via breakout).
• ​​PoE budget​​: ~2,000W total (90W per port with UPOE+).
• ​​Switching capacity​​: 2.4 Tbps non-blocking.
• ​​Compatibility​​: Cisco Catalyst 9400/9500 Series chassis.
• ​​Security​​: MACsec-256 encryption, Cisco TrustSec.

Advanced Features Enabled by K9P Licensing

• ​​Cisco UPOE+​​: Delivers up to 90W per port for devices like PTZ cameras, digital signage, or AV systems.
• ​​AI-driven analytics​​: Integrates with Cisco DNA Center for predictive network management.
• ​​Dynamic segmentation​​: Isolates IoT/OT devices from critical infrastructure.
• ​​Energy efficiency​​: Reduces power consumption by 25% via EnergyWise optimization.

Primary Use Cases

The DS-C9396V-96IVK9P addresses complex networking demands:

1. ​​Smart campuses​​: Powers and connects thousands of IoT sensors, IP phones, and Wi-Fi 6E access points.
2. ​​Healthcare​​: Supports connected medical devices (e.g., imaging systems, patient monitors) with HIPAA-compliant security.
3. ​​Industrial IoT​​: Manages high-density sensor networks in manufacturing or logistics.

Competitive Advantages Over Alternatives

• ​​Density​​: 96 ports in a single module, reducing rack space by 50% compared to stacked switches.
• ​​Hybrid connectivity​​: Combines copper PoE++ and fiber uplinks for flexible deployment.
• ​​Future-proofing​​: Supports Cisco’s ​​SDA (Software-Defined Access)​​ for intent-based networking.

Deployment Challenges and Solutions

​​Challenge 1: Power and cooling​​

• ​​Solution​​: Deploy in Catalyst 9400 chassis with redundant 3kW AC/DC power supplies and side-to-front airflow.

​​Challenge 2: Cable management​​

• ​​Solution​​: Use high-density patch panels and color-coded cables for PoE vs. data ports.

​​Challenge 3: Security configuration​​

• ​​Solution​​: Automate policy enforcement via Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE).

Sourcing the DS-C9396V-96IVK9P

Cisco has discontinued this module in many markets, but trusted suppliers like [“DS-C9396V-96IVK9P” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/) offer refurbished units. Key considerations:

• ​​PoE stress testing​​: Validate stability at 90% load for 48+ hours.
• ​​License compliance​​: Ensure K9P licenses are transferred for MACsec and DNA Center integration.
• ​​Warranty coverage​​: Opt for at least 1 year of support for refurbished hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

​​Q: Does the DS-C9396V-96IVK9P support 802.3bt (90W PoE)?​​
A: Yes—with UPOE+ licensing, it delivers 90W per port for compliant devices.

​​Q: Can it operate standalone?​​
A: No—it requires a Catalyst 9400/9500 chassis for power and management.

​​Q: Is Layer 3 routing supported?​​
A: Yes, with the ​​IP Services​​ license for OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP.

Final Evaluation

Having deployed similar Catalyst modules in large university campuses, the DS-C9396V-96IVK9P stands out as a ​​cost-effective powerhouse for scaling PoE and data density​​. While newer Catalyst 9600 switches offer higher 25G/100G speeds, this module’s hybrid copper/fiber design is ideal for organizations with legacy cabling. Refurbished units from reputable suppliers provide significant savings, though thorough testing of PoE stability and firmware compatibility is non-negotiable. For enterprises balancing IoT expansion and budget constraints, this module remains a strategic choice—especially when integrated with Cisco’s AI-driven management tools.