In-Depth Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24T-4X-E Datasheet and Pricing Analysis for Enterprise Networks

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24T-4X-E is a high-performance, fixed-configuration Layer 2/3 enterprise switch designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern campus and branch network infrastructures. As part of Cisco’s renowned Catalyst 9200 Series, the C9200L-24T-4X-E model delivers advanced security, automation, and operational simplicity, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking scalable, resilient, and secure network access solutions.

Engineered with Cisco’s latest innovations in hardware and software, the C9200L-24T-4X-E supports up to 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities and 4 fixed 10 Gigabit SFP+ uplinks, enabling seamless integration into high-bandwidth environments. The switch runs on Cisco IOS XE, providing a robust and programmable operating system that supports advanced features such as Software-Defined Access (SD-Access), enhanced security protocols, and comprehensive network analytics.

This model is particularly suited for enterprise edge deployments, including wiring closets, branch offices, and mid-sized campus networks, where reliability, security, and ease of management are paramount. The C9200L-24T-4X-E balances cost-effectiveness with enterprise-grade features, making it a preferred choice for IT professionals aiming to future-proof their network infrastructure.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Architecture

The Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24T-4X-E is built on a fixed form factor chassis with the following hardware specifications:

• Ports: 24 x 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45 ports (PoE/PoE+ capable)
• Uplink Interfaces: 4 x 10 Gigabit SFP+ fixed uplink ports
• Switching Capacity: 176 Gbps switching fabric
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 130.95 Mpps (million packets per second)
• PoE Power Budget: Up to 370W total PoE power budget supporting PoE and PoE+ devices
• Memory: 4 GB DRAM, 4 GB Flash storage
• CPU: Multicore ARM-based processor optimized for high throughput and low latency
• Power Supply: Internal fixed power supply with options for AC input (100-240V)
• Dimensions: 1.73 x 17.5 x 15.5 inches (H x W x D)
• Weight: Approximately 6.5 lbs (2.95 kg)

2.2 Software and Protocol Support

The C9200L-24T-4X-E runs Cisco IOS XE Software, a modular and programmable operating system that supports:

• Layer 2 switching protocols: VLAN, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Rapid STP (RSTP), Multiple STP (MSTP)
• Layer 3 routing protocols: OSPFv2/v3, EIGRP, BGP, RIP, VRF-lite
• Advanced security features: 802.1X port-based authentication, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), IP Source Guard, DHCP Snooping
• Quality of Service (QoS): Classification, marking, policing, shaping, and queuing mechanisms
• Automation and programmability: NETCONF, RESTCONF, Cisco DNA Center integration, SD-Access support
• High availability: StackWise-160 technology supporting up to 8 switches in a stack with unified management

2.3 Environmental and Compliance Specifications

The switch is designed to operate reliably in enterprise environments with the following environmental parameters:

• Operating temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F)
• Storage temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
• Operating humidity: 10% to 85% non-condensing
• Compliance: UL, CE, FCC Class A, RoHS, WEEE

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 Enterprise-Grade Security

Security is a cornerstone of the Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24T-4X-E. The switch incorporates comprehensive security mechanisms to protect network integrity and data confidentiality. Features such as 802.1X authentication enforce strict access control at the port level, ensuring only authorized devices connect to the network. Dynamic ARP Inspection and IP Source Guard mitigate common Layer 2 attacks like ARP spoofing and IP address spoofing.

Additionally, Cisco TrustSec technology enables scalable segmentation and policy enforcement across the network fabric, reducing the attack surface and simplifying compliance with regulatory requirements.

3.2 High Availability and Resiliency

The C9200L-24T-4X-E supports Cisco StackWise-160 technology, allowing up to eight switches to be interconnected and managed as a single logical unit