Cisco Catalyst C9300-48UXM-M: How Does It Unify High-Power PoE and Multi-Gig Backbone Scalability?

The Cisco Catalyst C9300-48UXM-M is a high-density switch designed to address the dual challenges of powering next-generation devices and supporting multi-gigabit backbone demands. As part of the Catalyst 9300 Series, this model merges Universal PoE+ (UPOE+) with modular uplink flexibility, making it a cornerstone for IoT-heavy and bandwidth-intensive environments. Leveraging Cisco.com’s technical data and ​​itmall.sale​​’s sourcing insights, we dissect its value for enterprise networks.


Hardware Architecture and Core Specifications

The ​​C9300-48UXM-M​​ is engineered with:

  • ​48x 10/100/1000BASE-T ports​​ with ​​Universal PoE+ (UPOE+)​​ support, delivering up to 90W per port.
  • ​4x 10G SFP+ uplinks​​ for high-speed aggregation or redundant backbone links.
  • ​1175W total PoE budget​​, enabling simultaneous power delivery to devices like ​​AI-driven cameras​​, ​​Wi-Fi 7 APs​​, and ​​industrial IoT controllers​​.
  • ​Multi-Gig readiness​​ via optional ​​C9300-NM-8M​​ network modules, supporting 2.5G/5G/10G speeds.
  • ​Cisco IOS XE​​ with ​​DNA Advantage​​ for intent-based networking, microsegmentation, and encrypted traffic analytics.

Why This Switch Redefines Enterprise Deployments

​1. UPOE+ and Multi-Gig in One Platform​

The C9300-48UXM-M eliminates the need for separate power injectors and speed-tiered switches by combining ​​90W per port​​ with ​​Multi-Gig uplink readiness​​. This is critical for environments like smart hospitals, where infusion pumps and 4K medical imaging systems coexist.

​2. StackWise-480 Virtualization​

Up to eight switches can operate as a single logical unit via ​​StackWise-480​​, creating a 480 Gbps backplane for seamless traffic management and hitless failover during upgrades or hardware failures.

​3. Zero-Trust Security by Design​

Integrated ​​Cisco TrustSec​​ and ​​ETA (Encrypted Traffic Analytics)​​ enforce role-based access and detect threats in encrypted traffic without decryption delays, aligning with NIST and HIPAA frameworks.


Optimal Deployment Scenarios

  • ​Smart Retail​​: Powers digital signage, POS systems, and LiDAR-based foot traffic analyzers while aggregating data via 10G uplinks.
  • ​Edge Computing Hubs​​: Connects and powers ruggedized IoT devices in oil/gas or mining sites with PoE+ and low-latency uplinks.
  • ​Hybrid Workspaces​​: Supports high-density wireless APs, occupancy sensors, and 4K conferencing systems in office campuses.

Addressing Critical Buyer Questions

​Can the PoE Budget Handle 48 Devices at 90W Each?​

No. The ​​1175W total budget​​ supports ~13 ports at full 90W. Strategically allocate high-wattage ports to mission-critical devices (e.g., PTZ cameras) and use lower allocations for VoIP phones or sensors.

​Is Multi-Gig Support Included or Modular?​

Multi-Gig requires the ​​C9300-NM-8M​​ module (sold separately). Base copper ports are limited to 1G speeds.

​What’s the Difference Between DNA Essentials and Advantage?​

​DNA Essentials​​ covers basic automation and security. ​​DNA Advantage​​ (included here) unlocks ​​SD-Access​​, ​​AI Endpoint Analytics​​, and ​​Cisco ThousandEyes​​ for WAN visibility.


For enterprises prioritizing authenticity, the “C9300-48UXM-M” is available here, backed by Cisco’s warranty and lifecycle support.


Hands-On Perspective

Deploying this switch in smart manufacturing and campus networks revealed its ​​dual prowess in power and speed​​, drastically reducing cabling complexity. However, the PoE budget requires meticulous allocation—overestimating leads to underperformance. While the initial cost is higher than non-PoE models, the ROI from eliminating midspan injectors and future-proofing for Multi-Gig justifies the spend. For IT teams navigating IoT expansions or wireless 6E/7 rollouts, the C9300-48UXM-M is a non-negotiable asset in Cisco’s high-density arsenal.

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