Defining the C9500-48Y4C-E=’s Purpose
The C9500-48Y4C-E= is a fixed-configuration Catalyst 9500 Series switch optimized for high-density 25G/100G campus core and data center edge deployments. Designed to handle bandwidth-intensive workloads like AI-driven analytics and real-time video processing, it bridges enterprise and cloud-scale networking demands.
Core User Concern: Why Select the C9500-48Y4C-E= Over Other Catalyst 9500 Models?
- Port Density: Offers 48x 25G SFP28 ports and 4x 100G QSFP28 uplinks, providing unmatched scalability for environments transitioning to 25G server architectures.
- Licensing Efficiency: Ships with the Essentials License, ideal for organizations prioritizing cost-effective SD-Access basics over advanced automation.
- Energy Savings: Leverages Cisco UADP 3.0 ASIC to reduce power consumption by 30% compared to earlier Catalyst 9500 switches under similar traffic loads.
Technical Specifications and Performance
- Throughput: Delivers 3.0 Tbps non-blocking capacity, ensuring consistent performance for latency-sensitive applications like high-frequency trading platforms.
- Security: Supports MACsec encryption on all ports and integrates with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) for dynamic policy enforcement.
- Resilience: Features dual redundant, hot-swappable power supplies and front-to-back airflow for optimal thermal management in dense racks.
Core User Concern: Is It Suitable for Multi-Cloud Hybrid Environments?
Yes. Its native integration with Cisco Cloud ACI simplifies policy orchestration across on-premises and public cloud workloads. However, full hybrid automation requires upgrading to a DNA Premier license.
Compatibility and Deployment Scenarios
- Software: Operates on Cisco IOS XE 17.9.1 or later, enabling features like Application Hosting for custom scripting and Telemetry Streaming for real-time monitoring.
- Stacking: Supports StackWise Virtual, allowing up to 8 switches to operate as a single entity for streamlined management.
- Best For:
- Large campus backbones requiring 25G server/storage connectivity.
- Edge data centers consolidating IoT, video, and compute traffic.
Where to Purchase the C9500-48Y4C-E=
For guaranteed authenticity and Cisco-certified support, procure this switch exclusively through authorized resellers.
[“C9500-48Y4C-E=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
Operational Considerations and Limitations
- Power Requirements: At full load, the switch consumes ~1.1 kW; verify facility power redundancy and cooling capacity before deployment.
- Port Flexibility: QSFP28 uplinks support breakout configurations (e.g., 4x25G), enabling gradual migration from 10G/25G to 100G spine layers.
- Avoid If: Your network primarily uses legacy 1G devices without a near-term upgrade plan, as the 25G ports may not justify their cost.
Final Insight
The C9500-48Y4C-E= is a strategic enabler for enterprises future-proofing their networks, particularly those grappling with exponential data growth from AI or edge computing. While its 25G focus may seem aggressive today, the looming demand for low-latency, high-throughput connectivity in sectors like healthcare and media will soon validate its design. For IT leaders weighing scalability against budget constraints, this switch’s balance of performance-per-watt and licensing flexibility makes it a prudent long-term bet.