In-Depth Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24P-4X-E Datasheet and Pricing Analysis for Enterprise Networks

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24P-4X-E is a high-performance, enterprise-class fixed-configuration switch designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern campus and branch network infrastructures. As part of Cisco’s renowned Catalyst 9200L Series, this switch delivers advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, robust security features, and flexible Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking scalable, secure, and resilient network access solutions.

Engineered to support digital transformation initiatives, the C9200L-24P-4X-E integrates seamlessly with Cisco DNA Center for intent-based networking and automation, enabling simplified network management and enhanced operational efficiency. Its compact form factor and energy-efficient design also contribute to reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) while maintaining enterprise-grade reliability.

This model specifically features 24 PoE+ ports and 4 fixed 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplinks, providing ample connectivity for high-density access deployments and bandwidth-intensive applications such as IP telephony, wireless access points, and video surveillance.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Architecture

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24P-4X-E is built on Cisco’s Unified Access Data Plane (UADP) 2.0 ASIC, which delivers wire-speed forwarding and advanced programmability. The switch supports a switching capacity of 128 Gbps and a forwarding rate of up to 95.24 Mpps (million packets per second), ensuring low latency and high throughput for demanding network environments.

The device features 24 fixed 10/100/1000 Mbps PoE+ ports compliant with IEEE 802.3at standards, each capable of delivering up to 30W of power to connected devices. Additionally, it includes 4 fixed 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ uplink ports, supporting fiber or direct-attach copper modules for flexible uplink connectivity.

2.2 Memory and CPU

The switch is equipped with 4 GB of DRAM and 2 GB of flash memory, providing ample resources for running Cisco IOS XE Software and supporting advanced features such as segment routing, flexible NetFlow, and enhanced security protocols. The CPU is a multi-core processor optimized for concurrent processing of control plane and data plane tasks.

2.3 Software and Licensing

The C9200L-24P-4X-E runs Cisco IOS XE Software, a modular operating system that supports programmability, automation, and advanced security. The device comes with the Network Essentials license by default, which includes Layer 2 switching, static routing, and basic security features. For advanced Layer 3 routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP), multicast, and enhanced security, the Network Advantage license is available as an upgrade.

2.4 Power and Environmental

The switch supports redundant power supply options (sold separately) to ensure high availability. It has an internal power supply rated at 715W, sufficient to power all PoE+ devices connected simultaneously. The device operates within a temperature range of 0°C to 45°C and complies with industry standards for electromagnetic emissions and safety.

2.5 Physical Dimensions and Weight

The C9200L-24P-4X-E has a compact 1RU form factor with dimensions approximately 44.5 cm (W) x 44.5 cm (D) x 4.45 cm (H) and weighs around 5.5 kg, making it suitable for standard 19-inch rack mounting in data centers or wiring closets.

2.6 Key Technical Specifications Summary

• Ports: 24 x 1G PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at), 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks
• Switching Capacity: 128 Gbps
• Forwarding Rate: 95.24 Mpps
• Memory: 4 GB DRAM, 2 GB Flash
• Power Supply: Internal 715W, optional redundant PSU
• Operating System: Cisco IOS XE
• Licensing: Network Essentials (default), Network Advantage (optional)
• Dimensions: 44.5 x 44.5 x 4.45 cm (W x D x H)
• Weight: ~5.5 kg

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 Advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 Functionality

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24P-4X-E supports comprehensive Layer 2 features including VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Rapid STP, Multiple STP, and Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP). On the Layer 3 front, it supports static routing, Routing Information Protocol (RIP), Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), and Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) with the Network Advantage license.

These capabilities enable the switch to efficiently segment traffic, optimize routing paths, and provide redundancy, which are critical for maintaining high availability and performance in enterprise networks.

3.2 Power over Ethernet (PoE+) Support