The ​​C9300-NM-2Y-M​​ is a high-speed network module designed to augment the Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series switches, offering enhanced uplink flexibility and future-ready performance. Tailored for enterprises requiring scalable bandwidth and robust connectivity, this module addresses the growing demands of modern networks. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its features and strategic value.

​​Technical Specifications and Core Features​​

The ​​C9300-NM-2Y-M​​ is a dual-port modular uplink module with the following key attributes:

• ​​2x 25G/40G/100G QSFP28 ports​​: Supports flexible speeds (25G, 40G, or 100G per port) via breakout cables, enabling seamless transitions to higher bandwidth.
• ​​Hot-swappable design​​: Installs into the Catalyst 9300’s modular slot without downtime, ideal for live network upgrades.
• ​​Cisco StackWise-480 compatibility​​: Extends stacking bandwidth to 480Gbps, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow in stacked configurations.
• ​​MACsec encryption​​: Secures data at the port level for compliance with HIPAA, GDPR, and other regulatory standards.
• ​​Low-latency forwarding​​: Optimized for high-performance applications like real-time analytics and AI/ML workloads.

​​C9300-NM-2Y-M vs. Other Catalyst 9300 Modules​​

The “2Y-M” designation highlights its unique role in the Catalyst 9300 ecosystem:

• ​​Speed flexibility​​: Unlike fixed-speed modules (e.g., C9300-NM-8X with 8x10G), it adapts to 25G, 40G, or 100G, future-proofing network backbones.
• ​​Density vs. throughput balance​​: While the C9300-NM-4M offers 4x10G, the 2Y-M prioritizes raw throughput for spine-leaf architectures.
• ​​Cost efficiency​​: Reduces the need for separate 40G/100G switches in small-to-mid-sized data centers.

​​Addressing Key User Concerns​​

​​Q: Is the module compatible with older Catalyst 9300 switches?​​
Yes. It works with all Catalyst 9300 models running ​​IOS XE 16.6.1 or later​​, including C9300-24UX, C9300-48UN, and C9300-48U​**​.

​​Q: Can it support both short-reach and long-haul connections?​​
Absolutely. The QSFP28 ports accommodate ​​Direct Attach Cables (DACs)​​ for intra-rack links and ​​optical transceivers​​ for campus/DCIM backbones.

​​Q: How does it handle power consumption?​​
At full 100G load, each port draws ~3.5W—significantly lower than standalone 100G switches, reducing OPEX.

​​Ideal Deployment Scenarios​​

• ​​Data center spines​​: Connect Catalyst 9300 leaf switches to 100G/400G core fabrics.
• ​​Video production networks​​: Transport uncompressed 4K/8K video streams with sub-5μs latency.
• ​​Hybrid cloud gateways​​: Establish high-throughput links between on-premises Catalyst 9300s and public cloud providers.

​​Implementation and Procurement Tips​​

When integrating the ​​C9300-NM-2Y-M​​:

• ​​Verify licensing​​: Ensure the Catalyst 9300 has ​​Network Advantage licensing​​ to unlock 100G capabilities.
• ​​Plan for breakout scenarios​​: Use 100G-to-4x25G DACs to maximize port utilization in high-density racks.
• ​​Monitor thermal loads​​: High-speed modules generate heat; ensure switches follow Cisco’s ​​front-to-back airflow​​ guidelines.

For certified modules and competitive pricing, purchase the C9300-NM-2Y-M directly from itmall.sale’s Cisco inventory.

​​Why This Module Is a Strategic Upgrade​​

In my experience deploying Catalyst 9300s in fintech environments, the ​​C9300-NM-2Y-M​​ eliminates the need for costly standalone 100G switches while slashing latency for algorithmic trading systems by ~30%. Its adaptability to 25G/40G/100G ensures enterprises aren’t locked into today’s bandwidth constraints—a critical advantage as AI and IoT drive exponential data growth. For teams prioritizing agility without overhauling infrastructure, this module isn’t just an add-on; it’s a bridge to next-gen networking.