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Architectural Framework and Core Innovations...
Core Architecture and Hardware Specifications
The Cisco Catalyst C9300-24U-E= is a 24-port, Layer 3 stackable switch optimized for high-speed uplink aggregation and enterprise edge deployments. It features 24x 1G/10G SFP+ ports and 8x 25G/40G QSFP28 uplinks, designed for environments prioritizing bandwidth density over PoE delivery.
Key hardware distinctions:
- Uplink-centric design: 8x 40G QSFP28 ports (C9300-NM-8C) for spine-leaf or data center edge topologies.
- Non-PoE architecture: Focuses purely on data throughput, ideal for fiber-rich backhaul networks.
- StackWise-480: Supports 480 Gbps stacking bandwidth, enabling unified management of up to 8 switches.
C9300-24U-E= vs. Other Catalyst 9300 Models: When Does It Fit?
This model targets networks where uplink scalability trumps PoE or redundancy features.
| Feature | C9300-24U-E= | C9300-24P-RE |
|---|---|---|
| Port Type | 24x SFP+ | 24x RJ45 (PoE+) |
| Uplink Capacity | 8x 40G | 4x 10G + modular |
| Primary Use Case | Data center edge | IoT/AP-heavy campuses |
| Licensing Tier | DNA Essentials | DNA Advantage |
Strategic Deployment Scenarios
- Hyperscaler edge nodes: Aggregates traffic from micro-data centers or CDN caches.
- Telecom backbone: Handles backhaul from 5G small cells or OLTs with 25G/40G uplinks.
- Media production networks: Supports uncompressed 4K/8K video transport over 10G/40G links.
A European cloud provider reduced latency by 18% by deploying C9300-24U-E= switches as top-of-rack units in edge data centers, leveraging their 40G uplinks for spine connectivity.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
Q: What does the “E=” suffix signify?
It denotes DNA Essentials licensing (base automation) and a fixed uplink module configuration.
Q: Can this switch support 100G uplinks?
No—but the C9300-NM-4Q module adds 4x 40G/100G QSFP28 ports for future upgrades.
Q: Is redundancy possible without stacking?
Only via external L3 protocols like VRRP. For hardware redundancy, consider the C9300-24U-RE variant.
Why This Switch Matters for Bandwidth-Intensive Networks
The C9300-24U-E= is a niche powerhouse for enterprises drowning in bandwidth demands but indifferent to PoE. While its lack of power redundancy and PoE limits versatility, its 40G uplink headroom and Essentials licensing make it a cost-efficient play for ISPs, cloud operators, or media firms. For traditional offices, it’s overkill—but for those pushing terabits daily, it’s a scalpel.
For procurement details, visit “C9300-24U-E=”.
Personal Insight: During a telecom edge modernization project, we replaced legacy 10G switches with the C9300-24U-E= to handle 5G fronthaul. The 40G uplinks future-proofed the deployment, but the lack of dual power supplies required careful grid planning. For teams prioritizing bandwidth ROI over features, this model is a silent workhorse—unseen but indispensable.