Cisco Catalyst C9300-48S-A Datasheet and Pricing: Expert Technical Overview and Ordering Guide

1. Product Overview

The Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series represents the industry-leading enterprise-class stackable access layer switches designed to meet the demands of modern digital networks. Among this series, the Cisco Catalyst C9300-48S-A stands out as a high-performance, fixed-configuration switch optimized for high-density 1G SFP connectivity. Engineered for secure, scalable, and resilient network deployments, the C9300-48S-A is ideal for enterprise campus access, branch office aggregation, and high-throughput data center access layers.

As part of Cisco’s Digital Network Architecture (DNA) portfolio, the C9300-48S-A integrates advanced programmability, automation, and security features, enabling organizations to accelerate their network transformation initiatives. This switch supports Cisco’s full suite of software capabilities, including Cisco IOS XE, Cisco DNA Center integration, and advanced security protocols, making it a future-proof investment for evolving network environments.

The “48S” designation indicates 48 SFP ports, providing flexible fiber connectivity options, while the “A” suffix denotes the inclusion of the Network Advantage software license, unlocking advanced Layer 3 routing, security, and automation features.

2. Product Specifications

2.1 Hardware Architecture

The Cisco Catalyst C9300-48S-A is built on a modular, stackable chassis with a fixed 1RU form factor. It features:

• Ports: 48 x 1G SFP ports for fiber connectivity, supporting a wide range of SFP transceivers (SX, LX, ZX, and BiDi).
• Uplink Modules: Two modular uplink slots supporting 1G, 10G, 25G, and 40G uplinks via optional modules (e.g., C9300-NM-4X, C9300-NM-8X).
• Stacking: Cisco StackWise-480 technology enabling up to 8 switches to be stacked with a 480 Gbps stack bandwidth, providing unified management and high availability.
• CPU and Memory: Dual-core ARM CPU with 8 GB DRAM and 16 GB flash memory for robust processing and storage of IOS XE software and configurations.
• Power Supplies: Supports dual redundant, hot-swappable power supplies with options for AC or DC power inputs.
• Fans: Front-to-back or back-to-front cooling options with redundant fan trays for optimal thermal management.

2.2 Software and Licensing

The C9300-48S-A ships with the Network Advantage license, which includes:

• Advanced Layer 3 routing protocols: OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, IS-IS.
• Enhanced security features: Encrypted Traffic Analytics (ETA), MACsec encryption, TrustSec segmentation.
• Automation and programmability: Cisco DNA Center integration, SD-Access support, REST APIs, and Python scripting.
• High availability: StackWise Virtual, Stateful Switchover (SSO), and nonstop forwarding (NSF).

The switch runs on Cisco IOS XE, a modular operating system that supports continuous software innovation, programmability, and enhanced security.

2.3 Performance and Capacity

The C9300-48S-A delivers industry-leading performance metrics:

• Switching Capacity: 480 Gbps non-blocking fabric.
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 356.4 Mpps (million packets per second).
• MAC Address Table: 32,768 entries.
• IPv4/IPv6 Routing Table: 16,000 routes.
• ACLs: Up to 4,000 hardware-based Access Control Lists.
• Stacking Bandwidth: 480 Gbps StackWise-480 technology.

2.4 Physical and Environmental Specifications

The physical and environmental parameters are critical for deployment planning:

• Dimensions: 1.73 x 17.5 x 18.5 inches (H x W x D).
• Weight: Approximately 15.4 lbs (7 kg) without power supplies.
• Operating Temperature: 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C).
• Storage Temperature: -40 to 158 °F (-40 to 70 °C).
• Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing.
• Power Consumption: Typical 150W; maximum up to 200W depending on configuration.

3. Features and Benefits

3.1 Advanced Security and Segmentation

Security is paramount in modern networks, and the C9300-48S-A incorporates multiple layers of protection:

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