In-Depth Cisco C9200L-STACK-KIT= Datasheet, Technical Specifications, Features, and Pricing Guide

1. Product Overview

The Cisco C9200L-STACK-KIT= is a critical hardware component designed to enable high-performance stacking capabilities for the Cisco Catalyst 9200L Series switches. As part of Cisco’s renowned Catalyst 9200L family, this stacking kit facilitates the creation of a unified logical switch by interconnecting multiple physical switches. This capability is essential for enterprises seeking scalable, resilient, and simplified network architectures.

Cisco Catalyst 9200L switches are widely deployed in enterprise access layers, offering advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, robust security, and automation capabilities. The C9200L-STACK-KIT= enhances these switches by providing a dedicated stacking interface that supports high-bandwidth, low-latency inter-switch communication. This stacking solution is engineered to deliver seamless network expansion, operational efficiency, and simplified management.

The stacking kit is specifically tailored for the Catalyst 9200L models, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance. It supports Cisco StackWise technology, which aggregates multiple switches into a single logical unit with a unified control plane. This aggregation simplifies network topology, reduces management overhead, and improves redundancy and failover capabilities.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Composition

The Cisco C9200L-STACK-KIT= consists of the following hardware components:

• Stacking Module: A dedicated module that plugs into the rear stacking port of the Catalyst 9200L switch.
• Stacking Cables: High-quality, shielded cables designed to connect multiple switches in a stack configuration. These cables support high data rates and ensure signal integrity over the stacking links.

2.2 Supported Switch Models

The stacking kit is compatible with the following Cisco Catalyst 9200L switch models:

• C9200L-24T-4X
• C9200L-48T-4X
• C9200L-24P-4X
• C9200L-48P-4X

2.3 StackWise Technology and Performance

The C9200L-STACK-KIT= supports Cisco StackWise technology with the following performance characteristics:

• Stacking Bandwidth: Up to 160 Gbps of stack bandwidth per stack ring, enabling high-throughput inter-switch communication.
• Stack Size: Supports stacking of up to 8 switches in a single stack, allowing for significant network scalability.
• Stack Latency: Ultra-low latency stacking links ensure minimal delay in control and data plane synchronization.

2.4 Physical and Environmental Specifications

The stacking kit components are designed to meet Cisco’s rigorous hardware standards:

• Dimensions: Compact form factor to fit seamlessly into Catalyst 9200L chassis.
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F).
• Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing.

2.5 Power and Reliability

The stacking kit is passive and draws power from the host switch. It is engineered for high reliability with:

• Redundant stacking links to ensure continuous operation in case of cable or module failure.
• Hot-swappable stacking modules and cables to minimize downtime during maintenance or upgrades.

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 Simplified Network Management

By leveraging the Cisco C9200L-STACK-KIT=, network administrators can manage multiple physical switches as a single logical entity. This consolidation reduces configuration complexity, streamlines firmware upgrades, and centralizes monitoring and troubleshooting. The unified control plane provided by StackWise technology ensures consistent policy enforcement and network behavior across the entire stack.

3.2 Enhanced Network Scalability

The stacking kit enables enterprises to scale their access layer infrastructure without redesigning the network topology. Adding new switches to the stack is straightforward, requiring only physical connection via stacking cables and minimal configuration. This modular scalability supports growing business demands and evolving network requirements.

3.3 High Availability and Redundancy

Cisco StackWise technology, enabled by the C9200L-STACK-KIT=, provides robust redundancy mechanisms. The stack operates with a single active master switch that manages the entire stack, while standby masters are elected automatically in case of failure. The ring topology of the stacking links ensures that if one link or cable fails, traffic is rerouted through alternate paths, maintaining uninterrupted network service.

3.4 Superior Performance and Low Latency

The stacking kit supports high-bandwidth stacking links that aggregate to 160 Gbps, ensuring that inter-switch traffic does not become a bottleneck. This capability is critical for