C9200-24T-1A: How Does Cisco’s Catalyst Switch Optimize Cost-Effective Layer 3 Access for Non-PoE Networks?

Overview of the Cisco C9200-24T-1A

The ​​C9200-24T-1A​​ is a ​​24-port Gigabit Ethernet switch​​ from Cisco’s Catalyst 9200 series, tailored for ​​non-PoE Layer 3 access deployments​​ where budget efficiency and basic routing capabilities are prioritized. Ideal for small offices, retail, or lightweight campus environments, this switch balances affordability with enterprise-grade features like ​​StackWise-160​​ and ​​Cisco DNA integration​​.

Key Technical Specifications

• ​​24 x 1G Copper Ports​​: Non-PoE RJ45 interfaces for connecting laptops, printers, and non-powered IoT devices.
• ​​4 x 1G SFP Uplinks​​: Optional fiber connectivity for extending reach to distribution layers.
• ​​Layer 3 Lite Routing​​: Supports ​​static routing​​, ​​RIPv2​​, and ​​EIGRP stub​​ for localized inter-VLAN traffic.
• ​​Single 350W AC PSU​​: Base configuration with optional ​​C9200-PWR-350W​​ redundancy.

Addressing Core User Questions

“Is This Switch Suitable for Networks Without PoE Requirements?”

Yes. The C9200-24T-1A eliminates PoE costs while providing full ​​Layer 2/Layer 3 Lite​​ functionality. For PoE needs, consider the ​​C9200-24P-1A​​ model.

“Can It Support Basic Inter-VLAN Routing?”

Yes. The ​​Layer 3 Lite​​ feature set enables ​​inter-VLAN routing​​ at the access layer, reducing reliance on core switches for simple traffic segmentation.

“What Redundancy Options Are Available?”

While the base SKU includes ​​one 350W PSU​​, adding a second ​​C9200-PWR-350W​​ provides power redundancy. ​​StackWise-160​​ allows stacking up to 8 switches for control-plane failover.

Deployment Considerations

• ​​Cooling Configuration​​: Uses ​​front-to-back airflow​​; ensure 1RU spacing in racks for optimal thermal performance.
• ​​Uplink Flexibility​​: Use SFP ports with ​​100/1000BASE-T​​ or ​​fiber transceivers​​ for long-distance backbone links.
• ​​Licensing​​: Requires ​​Network Essentials​​ for Layer 2 features or ​​Network Advantage​​ for Layer 3 routing.

Sourcing and Authenticity

For guaranteed hardware compliance and support, the C9200-24T-1A is available via itmall.sale’s Cisco-certified platform, ensuring access to firmware updates and Cisco TAC.

Final Insight

The C9200-24T-1A demonstrates Cisco’s strategy to democratize enterprise networking—delivering advanced features like StackWise and DNA integration at a non-PoE price point. While skeptics may dismiss it as a “basic” switch, its value lies in scaling Layer 3 capabilities without over-engineering. For small businesses or satellite offices transitioning from unmanaged switches, this model offers a risk-free entry into automated, secure networking. As remote work fragments traditional network perimeters, deploying intelligent, routable access layers becomes critical—even without PoE.