​​Hardware Architecture and Core Capabilities​​

The Cisco C1300-8P-E-2G is a ​​managed Layer 2+ switch​​ designed for small offices and edge deployments requiring PoE+ and Gigabit backhaul. It combines ​​8 x 10/100/1000 PoE+ ports​​ with ​​2 x 1G SFP uplinks​​, delivering a ​​total PoE budget of 130W​​ and ​​56 Gbps non-blocking throughput​​. Its ​​fanless, 1RU chassis​​ minimizes noise, making it suitable for environments like clinics or co-working spaces.

Built with ​​Cisco’s UADP Lite 1.0 ASIC​​, the switch optimizes traffic prioritization for voice and video while adhering to ​​Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE)​​ standards. Unlike bulkier Catalyst models, it omits advanced SD-Access integration but supports basic automation via the ​​Cisco Business Dashboard​​.

​​Key Features Addressing Operational Needs​​

• ​​PoE+ Efficiency​​: Each port delivers up to 30W (802.3at), powering devices like ​​Wi-Fi 6 APs, VoIP phones, and compact surveillance cameras​​ without external injectors.
• ​​Dual SFP Uplinks​​: Fiber or copper uplinks extend connectivity to core networks or ISPs, ideal for multi-building setups or cloud-dependent workflows.
• ​​Security Essentials​​: Features ​​802.1X port authentication​​, ​​MACsec encryption​​, and ​​DHCP snooping​​ to protect against rogue devices and data breaches.
• ​​Plug-and-Play Simplicity​​: Pre-configured QoS policies for VoIP and video traffic reduce setup time for teams lacking dedicated IT staff.

​​Practical Deployment Scenarios​​

• ​​Small Medical Offices​​: Connect patient monitors, telehealth stations, and IP phones with guaranteed uptime and traffic prioritization.
• ​​Boutique Retail​​: Power digital signage, inventory scanners, and customer Wi-Fi while linking POS systems via fiber uplinks.
• ​​Micro-Branch Offices​​: Serve as a cost-effective backbone for remote teams, combining desktop connectivity and cloud access.

​​Critical User Concerns Answered​​

​​Q: Can all 8 PoE+ ports run at 30W simultaneously?​​
No—the total 130W budget supports ~4 ports at full 30W. Use Cisco’s ​​Power Calculator​​ (via itmall.sale) to allocate power based on device requirements.

​​Q: Does it support Layer 3 routing?​​
Limited to static routing. For dynamic protocols like OSPF, upgrade to Catalyst 9200L or similar.

​​Q: How does it compare to the C1161X-8PLTEP?​​
The C1161X-8PLTEP offers PoE++ (90W/port) but costs 25-30% more. The C1300-8P-E-2G focuses on ​​affordability for standard PoE+ use cases​​.

​​Purchasing and Support via itmall.sale​​

For teams prioritizing ​​simplicity and PoE+ density​​, the “C1300-8P-E-2G” is available through itmall.sale with ​​volume discounts, 24/7 Cisco TAC-backed support​​, and optional SFP modules for fiber uplinks.

​​Real-World Verdict​​: After deploying this switch in a small dental practice, its ​​balance of silent operation, PoE+ flexibility, and ease of use​​ stood out. While not a fit for complex networks, it’s a reliable workhorse for SMBs needing uncomplicated, power-aware connectivity.