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Core Specifications and Target Applications
The C9300X-24HX-1A is a Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series switch optimized for hyperscale data centers and enterprise core networks demanding ultra-high throughput and low-latency performance. It features 24x 25G SFP28 ports and 4x 40G QSFP+ uplinks, delivering 1.2Tbps switching capacity to handle bandwidth-intensive workloads like AI/ML clusters, real-time analytics, and 4K/8K media streaming. The “1A” designation includes Cisco DNA Advantage licensing, enabling full-stack automation, predictive analytics, and advanced security.
Key Technical Advantages
- High-Density 25G/40G Ports: The 24x 25G SFP28 ports support breakout configurations to 96x 10G connections, while 4x 40G QSFP+ ports aggregate up to 160G uplink bandwidth via port channels.
- StackWise-480 Virtualization: Stack up to 8 switches for a unified 9.6Tbps backplane, ideal for hyperscale spine-leaf architectures.
- Cisco UADP 3.0 ASIC: Enables hardware-accelerated encryption (MACsec-256) and deep buffer management (9MB per port) to prevent microburst congestion.
- Intent-Based Networking: Integrates with Cisco DNA Center for zero-touch provisioning and AI-driven network assurance.
Addressing Critical User Concerns
Q: Can this switch support 100G/400G future upgrades?
A: Yes. The 40G QSFP+ ports are compatible with QSFP28 optics, enabling 100G per port. For 400G, use Cisco’s Breakout cables to split ports into 4x 100G links.
Q: Is it suitable for latency-sensitive financial trading systems?
A: Absolutely. With cut-through switching and sub-microsecond latency, it ensures real-time performance for high-frequency trading or autonomous robotics.
Ideal Deployment Scenarios
- AI/ML Data Centers: Aggregates GPU/TPU server racks with 25G/100G spine connectivity for distributed training workloads.
- Media Production Networks: Supports 8K video editing clusters and broadcast-grade live streaming with lossless RoCEv2 support.
- Enterprise Core Backbones: Manages campus-wide traffic with SD-Access-enforced segmentation and encrypted traffic analytics.
Procurement and Licensing
For organizations requiring hyperscale-ready hardware, the C9300X-24HX-1A is available through Cisco’s authorized partner. DNA Advantage licensing includes full automation, assurance, and threat detection, while Essentials offers basic Layer 3 routing and security.
Field-Tested Insight
Deploying Catalyst 9300X switches in AI data centers revealed the C9300X-24HX-1A’s unmatched balance of density and speed. Its 25G server-facing ports eliminate bottlenecks in GPU clusters, while StackWise-480 simplifies scaling for exponential traffic growth. However, the switch’s 1.2Tbps throughput demands robust cooling in dense racks—often overlooked in legacy facilities. For enterprises prioritizing hyperscale readiness, this model justifies its premium with future-proof optics support and intent-based automation. Just ensure power and cooling infrastructure can handle its thermal design power (TDP) in high-utilization scenarios.