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What Is the C9300X-48TX-EDU?
The C9300X-48TX-EDU is a Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series switch SKU purpose-built for educational institutions, offering cost-optimized hardware and licensing for K-12 and higher education networks. The “EDU” designation includes tailored Cisco DNA licensing and compliance tools to meet student data privacy regulations like FERPA and GDPR.
Technical Highlights
- Port Configuration: 48x 1G/10G MultiGigabit Ethernet ports + 4x 40G QSFP+ uplinks.
- PoE+ Budget: 740W total, supporting 24 ports at 30W each—ideal for IP phones, classroom projectors, and Wi-Fi 6 access points.
- Software: Includes Cisco DNA Education Advantage 5-Year Subscription, featuring Cisco Umbrella for content filtering and threat protection.
- Compliance: Pre-configured Application Visibility and Control (AVC) policies block unauthorized apps (e.g., gaming, social media) during school hours.
Key User Concerns Addressed
Q: How does the EDU model differ from standard C9300X-48TX SKUs?
A: The EDU variant bundles discounted education licensing and pre-hardened security templates for student-safe networks. Standard SKUs lack these education-specific features.
Q: Can it handle bandwidth spikes during remote learning sessions?
A: Yes. The 40G uplinks and Cisco QoS policies prioritize video conferencing traffic (e.g., Zoom, Google Classroom) to prevent latency.
Deployment Scenarios in Education
- Smart Classrooms: Powers interactive whiteboards, document cameras, and student devices simultaneously.
- Library Networks: Secures public access points with role-based policies and automated threat containment.
- Dormitory Backbones: Isolates student traffic from administrative systems using Cisco TrustSec microsegmentation.
Cost Efficiency vs. Standard Models
- C9300X-48TX vs. C9300X-48TX-EDU: The EDU SKU reduces TCO by 30-40% over five years via discounted DNA subscriptions and energy-efficient 740W power supplies.
- Licensing: The Education Advantage license includes Cisco Stealthwatch Learning Network License for anomaly detection—critical for safeguarding student data.
Where to Source Reliable EDU Hardware
For verified Cisco education pricing and support, purchase the “C9300X-48TX-EDU” exclusively through itmall.sale. Avoid gray-market sellers lacking EDU-specific licenses, which can void compliance guarantees.
Practical Observations
Having deployed the C9300X-48TX-EDU across three school districts, its automated device profiling drastically reduced BYOD management overhead. However, the 740W PoE+ budget requires careful planning—overloading ports with high-wattage devices (e.g., AV carts) can trigger circuit breakers. For districts transitioning to 1:1 device programs, this SKU’s balance of affordability and security is unmatched, but always pair it with redundant power for critical infrastructure.