C9300-24P-P Switch: How Does It Optimize PoE Deployments? Comparing Power Budgets, Licensing, and Use Cases Against Non-PoE Catalyst Models

Overview of the Cisco C9300-24P-P

The ​​Cisco Catalyst C9300-24P-P​​ is a Power over Ethernet (PoE)-enabled switch tailored for environments demanding high-density device connectivity. As part of the Catalyst 9300 series, it features ​​24 PoE+ Ethernet ports​​ and ​​four 1G SFP uplinks​​, providing robust support for IoT devices, wireless access points, and IP phones. Unlike non-PoE models like the C9300-24H-E=, this switch prioritizes ​​power delivery alongside data throughput​​, making it a cornerstone for modern smart buildings and campus networks.

Core Features and Technical Specifications

• ​​PoE+ Capabilities​​: Delivers ​​up to 740W total power​​ (30W per port) with support for Cisco UPOE, ideal for high-demand devices like PTZ cameras or next-gen Wi-Fi 6/6E access points.
• ​​StackWise-480 Technology​​: Enables stacking of up to eight switches, creating a unified ​​960 Gbps backplane​​ for scalable, resilient networks.
• ​​Modular Uplinks​​: Optional 10G/40G network modules future-proof connectivity for evolving bandwidth needs.
• ​​Redundancy​​: Supports ​​dual hot-swappable power supplies​​ and fan modules for mission-critical uptime.

Licensing and Advanced Functionality

A frequent user question is: ​​“What features are unlocked with Advantage or Premier licenses?”​​ Upgrading from the included Essentials license grants access to ​​SD-Access​​, ​​full dynamic routing (OSPF, BGP)​​, and advanced security tools like Encrypted Traffic Analytics. The C9300-24P-P also integrates with ​​Cisco DNA Center​​, streamlining policy-based automation and network visibility.

Deployment Scenarios: Where Does This Switch Shine?

• ​​High-Density PoE Environments​​: Supports classrooms, hospitals, or offices with extensive IoT deployments.
• ​​Edge Networks​​: Combines PoE delivery with Layer 3 routing for distributed sites requiring local intelligence.
• ​​Converged Networks​​: Simplifies infrastructure by merging data and power delivery for endpoints like VoIP systems.

For organizations prioritizing reliable sourcing, the “C9300-24P-P” is available here.

Addressing Common Concerns

​​Q: How does the C9300-24P-P compare to non-PoE models like the 24H-E=?​​
A: While both share Layer 3 features and stacking capabilities, the 24P-P’s ​​740W PoE budget​​ makes it superior for powering devices, whereas the 24H-E= suits non-PoE data aggregation.

​​Q: Can all 24 ports deliver 30W simultaneously?​​
A: No—total PoE capacity is shared. Careful power budgeting is required to avoid overloading the switch.

Final Perspective

Having deployed the C9300-24P-P in campus networks, its ​​ability to simplify cabling while scaling power demands​​ stands out. For enterprises balancing IoT growth with budget constraints, this switch eliminates the need for separate power injectors and offers a clear path to SDN adoption. While non-PoE models save costs for data-only roles, the 24P-P’s versatility in mixed-device environments justifies its premium for future-ready deployments.