C9300L-48T-4X-A: Why Is This Cisco Switch Optimized for High-Throughput Non-PoE Networks?

Core Hardware and Licensing Overview

The ​​Cisco Catalyst C9300L-48T-4X-A​​ is a 48-port Layer 3 switch designed for high-speed data environments where Power over Ethernet (PoE) isn’t required. It includes ​​48x 1G Base-T ports​​ and ​​4x 10G SFP+ uplinks​​, powered by a ​​715W AC power supply​​. The “A” suffix denotes integration with ​​Cisco DNA Advantage licensing​​, unlocking advanced automation, security, and analytics features out of the box.

Performance Advantages Over Similar Models

• ​​10G Uplink Capacity​​: Unlike the C9300L-48T-4G-10E (1G uplinks), this model’s ​​4x 10G SFP+ ports​​ support bandwidth-intensive tasks like video streaming or large-scale backups.
• ​​StackWise-480 Scalability​​: Enables stacking of up to 8 switches with ​​480 Gbps backplane bandwidth​​, ensuring seamless traffic flow in expanding networks.
• ​​Cisco DNA Advantage​​: Provides perpetual access to ​​Software-Defined Access (SD-Access)​​, encrypted traffic analytics, and AI-driven network assurance tools.

Addressing Common Deployment Queries

​​Q: Can this switch be upgraded to support PoE later?​​
No. The ​​C9300L-48T-4X-A lacks PoE circuitry​​—choose the C9300L-48P-4X-A model if future PoE needs are anticipated.

​​Q: How does Cisco DNA Advantage benefit non-PoE environments?​​
It automates VLAN provisioning, enforces zero-trust policies for connected devices, and identifies performance bottlenecks via machine learning—critical for securing data-heavy networks like financial or research facilities.

Ideal Use Cases

• ​​Data center aggregation​​: Connects server racks with 10G uplinks while segmenting traffic via VXLAN.
• ​​Media production networks​​: Handles 4K/8K video editing workflows with QoS prioritization for low-latency transfers.
• ​​Corporate WAN edge​​: Supports secure SD-WAN integration and WPA3-Enterprise authentication for wired clients.

Procurement and Compatibility Tips

The C9300L-48T-4X-A requires ​​Cisco Smart Net Total Care​​ for premium support and firmware updates. For guaranteed authenticity and full license validation, purchase through authorized partners like itmall.sale. Third-party transceivers may cause compatibility issues.

Field Deployment Observations

In a recent deployment for a video surveillance backend, the C9300L-48T-4X-A’s 10G uplinks eliminated bottlenecks in handling 50+ concurrent camera feeds. While PoE models dominate headlines, this switch’s focus on raw data throughput and DNA Advantage’s automation tools make it a silent workhorse for enterprises prioritizing speed over power delivery. For IT teams managing hyperscale data environments, its blend of scalability and intelligence justifies the premium over basic 1G uplink switches.