Cisco C9300X-NM-4C Datasheet and Price: Expert Technical Overview of Catalyst 9300 Network Module

1. Product Overview

The Cisco C9300X-NM-4C is a high-performance network module designed exclusively for the Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series switches, specifically the 9300X models. As part of Cisco’s flagship enterprise switching portfolio, the Catalyst 9300 Series is engineered to deliver advanced security, high throughput, and modular flexibility for modern campus and branch networks. The C9300X-NM-4C module extends the switch’s uplink capabilities by providing four 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10G) ports, enabling scalable, high-bandwidth connectivity to aggregation layers, data centers, or service provider networks.

This network module is a critical component for organizations requiring robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching with enhanced uplink density and redundancy. It supports Cisco’s full suite of software features, including advanced QoS, security, and programmability options, making it ideal for enterprise campus core, distribution, and high-performance access deployments.

The C9300X-NM-4C is engineered to seamlessly integrate with the Catalyst 9300X chassis, leveraging Cisco’s IOS XE operating system to provide a unified, programmable, and secure network infrastructure. Its modular design allows network administrators to tailor uplink configurations based on evolving bandwidth demands without replacing the entire switch.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Physical and Environmental Specifications

The Cisco C9300X-NM-4C module is a compact, hot-swappable network module designed for the Catalyst 9300X chassis. It occupies a single network module slot and is engineered for optimal thermal and power efficiency.

• Form Factor: Network Module for Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series
• Dimensions: Approximately 1.73 x 7.5 x 10.5 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: Approximately 1.2 lbs (0.54 kg)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
• Operating Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing
• Power Consumption: Approximately 15W (varies based on port utilization)

2.2 Interface and Connectivity

The core functionality of the C9300X-NM-4C lies in its four fixed 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports. These ports support both fiber and copper connectivity via SFP+ transceivers, providing flexible deployment options.

• Ports: 4 x 10G SFP+ uplink ports
• Supported Transceivers: Compatible with Cisco SFP+ modules including SR, LR, LRM, and DAC cables
• Interface Type: SFP+ (Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus)
• Data Rate: 10 Gbps per port, full-duplex
• Auto-negotiation: Not applicable (fixed 10G ports)

2.3 Performance and Scalability

The C9300X-NM-4C module is designed to maintain line-rate forwarding at 10 Gbps per port, ensuring no packet loss under full load. It supports advanced switching features and hardware-based forwarding acceleration.

• Switching Capacity: Dependent on the host Catalyst 9300X switch, up to 480 Gbps switching capacity
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 716 Mpps (million packets per second) on the host switch
• Latency: Sub-microsecond latency on uplink ports
• Buffer Size: Large packet buffers integrated in the host switch ASIC

2.4 Software and Protocol Support

The C9300X-NM-4C leverages the Cisco IOS XE software platform, providing comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocol support, security features, and programmability.

• Layer 2 Features: VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP, RSTP, MSTP), EtherChannel, Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
• Layer 3 Features: OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, IS-IS, VRF, IPv4/IPv6 routing
• Security: 802.1X, Dynamic ARP Inspection, IP Source Guard, MACsec (hardware dependent)
• Quality of Service (QoS): Advanced QoS including classification, marking, policing, shaping, and queuing
• Programmability: NETCONF, RESTCONF, Cisco DNA Center integration, SD-Access support

3. Features and Benefits