In-Depth Cisco Catalyst C9200L-48T-4X-E Datasheet and Pricing Analysis for Enterprise Networks

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-48T-4X-E is a high-performance, stackable Layer 2 and Layer 3 enterprise switch designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern campus and branch network infrastructures. As part of the Cisco Catalyst 9200L Series, this model delivers advanced security, automation, and operational simplicity, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking scalable, resilient, and secure network access solutions.

Engineered with Cisco’s proven IOS XE software platform, the C9200L-48T-4X-E supports a broad range of enterprise features including advanced routing protocols, comprehensive security policies, and seamless integration with Cisco DNA Center for intent-based networking. This switch is optimized for environments requiring high port density, robust uplink capabilities, and flexible deployment options.

The “48T” in the model number indicates 48 fixed 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports, while the “4X” denotes four 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports, providing ample bandwidth for aggregation and core connectivity. The “E” suffix signifies the inclusion of the Enterprise feature set, unlocking advanced Layer 3 routing and security functionalities.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Architecture

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-48T-4X-E is built on a modular hardware architecture featuring a fixed 1RU form factor. It incorporates a high-performance switching ASIC capable of wire-speed forwarding across all ports. The switch supports Cisco StackWise-160 technology, enabling stacking of up to eight units with a combined bandwidth of 160 Gbps, facilitating simplified management and high availability.

Key hardware specifications include:

• 48 x 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45 ports with PoE/PoE+ support (depending on model variant)
• 4 x 10 Gigabit SFP+ uplink ports for fiber or direct attach copper (DAC) connectivity
• Switching capacity: 176 Gbps
• Forwarding rate: Up to 130.95 Mpps (million packets per second)
• StackWise-160 stacking bandwidth with up to 8 switches per stack
• Redundant power supply options (PSU sold separately)
• Fan tray with front-to-back airflow optimized for data center and wiring closet environments

2.2 Software and Protocol Support

The C9200L-48T-4X-E runs Cisco IOS XE, a modular and programmable operating system that supports a wide array of Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols, automation tools, and security features. The Enterprise feature set enables advanced routing protocols such as OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and multicast routing (PIM).

Additional software capabilities include:

• Advanced QoS with granular traffic shaping and prioritization
• Comprehensive security features including 802.1X authentication, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), IP Source Guard, and MACsec encryption support
• Support for Cisco DNA Center integration enabling intent-based networking, automation, and assurance
• Flexible NetFlow for traffic analytics and monitoring
• StackWise Virtual technology for high availability and seamless failover
• Programmability via RESTCONF, NETCONF, and Python scripting

2.3 Physical and Environmental Specifications

The physical dimensions and environmental tolerances of the C9200L-48T-4X-E are designed to fit standard 19-inch racks with a 1RU height profile. The switch supports operating temperatures from 0°C to 45°C and relative humidity from 10% to 85% non-condensing.

• Dimensions (W x D x H): 44.5 cm x 35.5 cm x 4.4 cm (17.5 in x 14 in x 1.73 in)
• Weight: Approximately 5.5 kg (12.1 lbs)
• Power consumption: Typical 60W, maximum up to 120W depending on PoE load
• Compliance: RoHS, UL, CE, FCC Class A

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 High-Density Gigabit Access with Scalable Uplinks

The C9200L-48T-4X-E provides 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, ideal for high-density access layer deployments in enterprise campus networks. The inclusion of four 10G SFP+ uplinks ensures that aggregation to distribution or core layers is not a bottleneck, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications such as video conferencing, cloud access, and virtualization.

3.2 Advanced Security and Segmentation

Security is paramount in today’s network environments. This switch supports comprehensive security features including IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, enabling secure network access control for wired endpoints. Dynamic ARP Inspection and IP Source Guard protect against spoofing attacks, while MACsec encryption (hardware-based) ensures data confidentiality on fiber links.

3.3 Cisco DNA Center Integration and Automation

The C9200L-48T-4X-E is fully compatible with Cisco DNA