In-Depth Cisco Catalyst C9300-24T-A Datasheet and Pricing Analysis for Enterprise Networks

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series represents the next evolution in enterprise-class stackable access switches, designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern campus networks. Among the flagship models, the Cisco Catalyst C9300-24T-A stands out as a high-performance, secure, and scalable 24-port switch optimized for Layer 2 and Layer 3 access deployments. Engineered to support the digital transformation initiatives of large enterprises, this switch integrates advanced hardware and software capabilities to deliver unmatched reliability, security, and operational efficiency.

The C9300-24T-A is part of Cisco’s broader Catalyst 9000 family, which is the foundation for intent-based networking. It is designed to seamlessly integrate with Cisco DNA Center for automation, assurance, and analytics, enabling IT teams to proactively manage network performance and security. This model is ideal for organizations requiring robust wired connectivity with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities, advanced security features, and high throughput for converged applications such as voice, video, and wireless backhaul.

Architecturally, the C9300-24T-A is built on Cisco’s Unified Access Data Plane (UADP) 2.0 ASIC, which provides hardware-accelerated performance and programmability. This switch supports full-stack stacking with Cisco StackWise technology, allowing up to eight switches to operate as a single logical unit, simplifying management and increasing resiliency.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Specifications

The Cisco Catalyst C9300-24T-A is a fixed-configuration switch featuring 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports with RJ-45 connectors. Each port supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds and is capable of delivering up to 30W per port via Cisco’s Universal Power over Ethernet (UPOE) technology, enabling support for high-power devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras.

Key hardware specifications include:

• Switching Capacity: 176 Gbps (non-blocking)
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 154.76 Mpps (million packets per second)
• Stacking Bandwidth: Up to 480 Gbps with StackWise-480 technology
• Uplink Interfaces: Four fixed 1G SFP ports (fiber or copper modules supported)
• Memory: 8 GB DRAM, 4 GB Flash
• Power Supply: Dual redundant, field-replaceable power supplies (optional)
• Dimensions: 1.73 x 17.5 x 17.5 inches (4.4 x 44.5 x 44.5 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 8.5 lbs (3.86 kg)

2.2 Software and Protocol Support

The C9300-24T-A runs Cisco IOS XE Software, a modular operating system that supports advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, programmability, and automation. It supports a wide range of protocols and standards critical for enterprise networks:

• Layer 2: 802.1Q VLAN tagging, Private VLANs, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Rapid PVST+, MSTP
• Layer 3: OSPFv2/v3, EIGRP, BGP, IS-IS, VRF-Lite, Static Routing, Policy-Based Routing
• Security: 802.1X Network Access Control, Dynamic ARP Inspection, IP Source Guard, DHCP Snooping
• Quality of Service (QoS): Advanced classification, marking, queuing, and shaping
• Multicast: PIM-SM, PIM-DM, IGMP Snooping, MLD Snooping
• Automation: NETCONF, RESTCONF, Cisco DNA Center integration, Cisco Embedded Event Manager (EEM)

2.3 Environmental and Compliance Specifications

The C9300-24T-A is designed for enterprise environments with the following operational parameters:

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
• Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing
• Power Consumption: Typical 60W, maximum 370W (with PoE)
• Certifications: UL, CE, FCC Class A, RoHS compliant

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 Advanced Security Features

Security is paramount in today’s enterprise networks, and the C9300-24T-A incorporates multiple layers of protection. The switch supports Cisco TrustSec for identity-based access control, enabling segmentation without complex VLAN configurations. It also integrates hardware-based MACsec encryption on uplink ports to secure data in transit.

Additional security features include:

• 802.1X Authentication: Ensures only authorized devices connect to the network.
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