In-Depth Cisco Catalyst C9300X-12Y-A Datasheet, Technical Specifications, Features, and Pricing Guide

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst C9300X-12Y-A is a high-performance, enterprise-grade network switch designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern campus and branch networks. As part of the Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series, this model represents the next evolution in Cisco’s flagship stackable access switches, delivering enhanced throughput, advanced security, and superior programmability. Engineered for digital transformation initiatives, the C9300X-12Y-A is optimized for high-density 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity with integrated 25 Gigabit uplinks, making it ideal for organizations requiring scalable, resilient, and secure network infrastructure.

This switch is tailored for environments that demand high availability, seamless integration with Cisco DNA Center for intent-based networking, and support for advanced features such as Software-Defined Access (SD-Access), Network Assurance, and Encrypted Traffic Analytics. The C9300X-12Y-A is a Layer 3 switch that supports full routing capabilities, including OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and multicast protocols, enabling it to serve as a core or distribution layer device in enterprise campus networks.

With a modular design, flexible uplink options, and Cisco’s IOS XE operating system, the C9300X-12Y-A provides a future-proof platform that supports programmability, automation, and enhanced security features critical for today’s evolving network architectures.

2. Product Specifications

Hardware Architecture

The Cisco Catalyst C9300X-12Y-A is built on a fixed-configuration chassis with 12 ports of 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ interfaces and 4 integrated 25 Gigabit SFP28 uplink ports. The switch supports Cisco StackWise® Virtual technology, enabling stacking of up to eight units with a combined bandwidth of up to 480 Gbps, providing high resiliency and simplified management.

The device is powered by a dual-core CPU architecture running Cisco IOS XE Software, which supports advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, programmability, and automation capabilities. It includes redundant power supply options and supports field-replaceable fans for enhanced reliability.

Port and Interface Details

• 12 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports (1/10GBASE-SR/LR/ER compatible)
• 4 x 25 Gigabit Ethernet SFP28 uplink ports (25GBASE-SR/LR compatible)
• StackWise Virtual support with 480 Gbps stack bandwidth
• USB Type-A and Type-B ports for console and storage

Performance and Capacity

The C9300X-12Y-A delivers a switching capacity of 480 Gbps and a forwarding rate of up to 356.8 Mpps (million packets per second). It supports up to 32,000 MAC addresses and 16,000 IPv4/IPv6 routes, making it suitable for large-scale enterprise deployments.

The device supports hardware-based VXLAN routing and advanced QoS features, ensuring low latency and high throughput for mission-critical applications.

Power and Environmental Specifications

• Dual redundant, field-replaceable power supplies (AC or DC options)
• Maximum power consumption: approximately 350W (varies by configuration)
• Operating temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F)
• Operating humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing

Software and Protocol Support

The switch runs Cisco IOS XE Software, providing comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocol support including:

• Routing protocols: OSPFv2/v3, EIGRP, BGP, IS-IS
• Multicast: PIM-SM, PIM-DM, IGMP snooping
• Security: 802.1X, MACsec encryption, TrustSec, Dynamic ARP Inspection
• Automation: NETCONF, RESTCONF, Cisco DNA Center integration, Python scripting
• StackWise Virtual and StackPower for resiliency and power sharing

3. Features and Benefits

High-Density 10G and 25G Connectivity

The C9300X-12Y-A provides 12 fixed 10G SFP+ ports combined with 4 integrated 25G SFP28 uplinks, enabling organizations to future-proof their access layer with high-speed connectivity. This configuration supports bandwidth-intensive applications such as video conferencing, cloud access, and virtualization.

Advanced Security Capabilities

Security is paramount in enterprise networks, and the C9300X-12Y-A addresses this with comprehensive features including MACsec encryption on all 10G and 25G ports, providing line-rate encryption to protect data in transit. Cisco TrustSec technology enables scalable segmentation and policy enforcement, while features like Dynamic ARP Inspection and IP Source Guard prevent common Layer 2 attacks.

StackWise Virtual and StackPower Technology

Cisco StackWise Virtual technology allows two C9300X switches to operate as a single logical switch, providing high availability and simplified management. StackPower technology enables power sharing across stacked switches, improving energy efficiency and reducing downtime due to power failures.