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Core Hardware and Power Architecture
The Cisco Catalyst C9300-48P-10E is a 48-port Layer 3 stackable switch designed for high-density Power over Ethernet (PoE+) deployments. It combines 48x 1GBase-T RJ45 ports (30W PoE+ per port) with 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks, delivering a total PoE budget of 740W—ideal for environments requiring simultaneous power and data delivery to hundreds of devices.
Key specifications:
- PoE+ prioritization: Auto-senses and allocates power based on device criticality (e.g., VoIP phones over printers).
- StackWise-320: Supports stacking of up to 8 switches with 320 Gbps backplane bandwidth.
- Cisco DNA Essentials licensing: Enables basic SD-Access for automated VLANs and device visibility.
C9300-48P-10E vs. Compact PoE Models: Strategic Tradeoffs
This model prioritizes port density over uplink flexibility, contrasting with compact switches like the C9300-24P-RE.
| Feature | C9300-48P-10E | C9300-24P-RE |
|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 48x PoE+ | 24x PoE+ |
| Redundancy | Optional PSU add-ons | Dual integrated PSUs |
| Target Use Case | IoT device sprawl | Mission-critical PoE |
Deployment Scenarios: Where the 48P-10E Excels
- Smart office buildings: Powers Wi-Fi 6 APs, occupancy sensors, and LED lighting systems.
- Education campuses: Supports lecture hall AV systems, digital whiteboards, and student device charging.
- Hospitality networks: Drives IP cameras, digital signage, and in-room IoT hubs.
A convention center in Tokyo streamlined operations using the 48P-10E to power 300+ connected devices across exhibit halls, reducing cabling costs by 60% compared to traditional electrical setups.
Addressing Critical User Questions
Q: Can all 48 ports deliver 30W PoE+ simultaneously?
No—the total PoE budget is 740W, so power allocation depends on connected devices. For example, 24 APs at 30W each would consume 720W, leaving 20W for other devices.
Q: Is redundancy feasible for this model?
Yes, via C9300-PWR-715W-RF add-on power supplies, but they occupy module slots and increase costs.
Q: Does DNA Essentials support IoT segmentation?
Basic group-based policies are included, but advanced microsegmentation requires DNA Advantage.
Why This Switch Is a Silent Enabler of IoT Expansion
The C9300-48P-10E caters to enterprises drowning in low-power IoT devices rather than ultra-high-speed needs. While its 10G uplinks may bottleneck data-heavy applications, its 48-port PoE+ density makes it a cost-efficient workhorse for offices, schools, or hotels prioritizing device connectivity over raw throughput. For organizations scaling smart buildings or BYOD initiatives, it’s a pragmatic foundation.
For bulk pricing, visit “C9300-48P-10E”.
Personal Insight: During a university IoT rollout, the 48P-10E’s PoE+ density allowed us to power smart locks, air quality sensors, and digital kiosks without cluttering electrical outlets. While its lack of built-in redundancy required careful load balancing, the sheer port count made it indispensable. For IT teams juggling proliferating devices, this switch is less about cutting-edge specs and more about delivering simplicity at scale.