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In-Depth Technical Analysis and Pricing Guide for Cisco C1000-48T-4X-L Switch

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T-4X-L is a robust, fixed-configuration Layer 2/Layer 3 Ethernet switch designed to meet the demanding requirements of small to medium-sized enterprise networks, branch offices, and retail environments. As part of Cisco’s Catalyst 1000 series, this model delivers a balance of performance, security, and ease of management, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking reliable network infrastructure without the complexity of advanced enterprise features.

Engineered with Cisco’s proven switching technology, the C1000-48T-4X-L supports 48 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports alongside 4 10-Gigabit SFP+ uplink ports, enabling high-throughput connectivity and seamless integration with core network layers. The switch is optimized for operational simplicity, featuring an intuitive web-based GUI and CLI options, while also supporting Cisco’s Digital Network Architecture (DNA) for future scalability and automation.

This switch is particularly suited for deployments requiring high port density with enhanced uplink bandwidth, such as campus access layers, wiring closets, and branch aggregation points. Its compact form factor and fanless design (depending on configuration) contribute to quiet operation and energy efficiency, aligning with modern green IT initiatives.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Architecture

The Cisco C1000-48T-4X-L is built on a fixed hardware platform featuring:

• Switching Capacity: 176 Gbps non-blocking fabric, ensuring wire-speed forwarding across all ports.
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 130.95 Mpps (million packets per second), supporting high-performance data transfer.
• Ports: 48 RJ-45 10/100/1000 Mbps ports for end-device connectivity.
• Uplink Ports: 4 x 10-Gigabit SFP+ slots for fiber or direct attach copper (DAC) modules, enabling high-speed uplinks to distribution or core layers.
• Power Supply: Internal fixed power supply with options for AC input; power consumption optimized for energy efficiency.
• Dimensions: 1RU form factor, measuring approximately 44.5 mm (1.75 in) height, 442 mm (17.4 in) width, and 300 mm (11.8 in) depth.
• Weight: Approximately 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs), facilitating easy rack mounting and deployment.

2.2 Software and Protocol Support

The C1000-48T-4X-L runs Cisco IOS Software tailored for the Catalyst 1000 series, providing a comprehensive suite of Layer 2 and limited Layer 3 features:

• Layer 2 Switching: VLANs (up to 255 active VLANs), 802.1Q trunking, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Rapid STP (RSTP), Multiple STP (MSTP).
• Layer 3 Features: Static routing, Routing Information Protocol (RIP) v1/v2, and limited support for IPv4 routing.
• Security: Access Control Lists (ACLs), 802.1X port-based authentication, DHCP snooping, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), IP Source Guard.
• Quality of Service (QoS): Classification, marking, queuing, and scheduling to prioritize critical traffic.
• Management: Web-based GUI, Command Line Interface (CLI), Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) v1/v2c/v3, RMON, and Syslog support.
• Energy Efficiency: Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) compliant, Cisco EnergyWise technology for power management.

2.3 Environmental and Compliance Specifications

The switch is designed to operate reliably in typical enterprise environments:

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F).
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F).
• Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing.
• Certifications: UL, CE, FCC Class A, RoHS compliant, and other regional safety and emissions standards.

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 High-Density Gigabit Connectivity

With 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, the C1000-48T-4X-L provides ample connectivity for a wide range of devices including IP phones, wireless access points, and desktop computers. The inclusion of 4 10-Gigabit SFP+ uplinks ensures that the switch can handle aggregated traffic from multiple endpoints without bottlenecks, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications such as video conferencing, cloud services, and virtualization.

3.2 Simplified Network Management

Cisco’s intuitive web-based interface allows network administrators to configure and monitor the switch with minimal training. The CLI remains available for advanced users requiring granular control. Integration with Cisco DNA Center and support for Cisco Network Plug and Play (PnP) streamline deployment and ongoing management, reducing operational expenses and minimizing human error.

3.3 Enhanced Security Posture

Security is paramount in modern networks, and the C1000-48T-4X-L incorporates multiple layers of