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Overview of the C9600-LC-48S=
The C9600-LC-48S= is a high-density line card module designed for Cisco’s Catalyst 9600 Series modular switches. It provides 48x SFP28 ports capable of supporting 1G, 10G, and 25G speeds, making it ideal for enterprises requiring flexible, high-speed connectivity in data center or campus core environments.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
Core capabilities:
- 48x SFP28 ports: Auto-negotiates between 1G, 10G, and 25G speeds using Cisco-certified optics.
- MACsec encryption: Secures data at line rate (256-bit AES) on all ports for compliance-sensitive industries.
- High availability: Supports ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade) for zero-downtime updates.
- 3.2 Tbps slot capacity: Ensures non-blocking performance even at full utilization.
Critical specs:
- Forwarding rate: 1.2 Bpps (billion packets per second).
- Latency: <5 microseconds (cut-through mode).
- Compatibility: Works exclusively with Catalyst 9600 chassis (C9600-R, C9600-L).
Target Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios
Ideal for:
- Enterprise core networks: Aggregating traffic from access switches with mixed 1G/10G/25G uplinks.
- Data center leaf layers: Connecting servers with 25G NICs in hyper-converged infrastructures.
- Financial networks: Low-latency trading environments requiring MACsec encryption.
Not recommended for:
- Pure 40G/100G deployments: Use the C9600-LC-32C= line card instead.
- PoE-driven access layers: This module lacks PoE support.
Addressing Core User Concerns
Q: Can the SFP28 ports run at 40G speeds?
A: No—this module maxes out at 25G. For 40G/100G, upgrade to the C9600-LC-32C=.
Q: Is it compatible with third-party optics?
A: Cisco discourages non-certified SFPs—using them may void support contracts.
Comparison: C9600-LC-48S= vs. C9600-LC-24S=
| Feature | C9600-LC-48S= | C9600-LC-24S= |
|---|---|---|
| Port density | 48x25G | 24x25G |
| MACsec encryption | Yes (full port coverage) | Yes |
| Use case focus | High-density aggregation | Mid-sized core |
| Power draw per slot | 350W | 200W |
Where to Purchase and Pricing
For verified pricing and availability, visit [“C9600-LC-48S=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).
Budget considerations:
- Upfront cost: ~40% higher than the 24S= due to doubled port density.
- TCO savings: MACsec eliminates the need for external encryption appliances, cutting costs by ~25%.
Final Insight
Having deployed the C9600-LC-48S= in a healthcare data core, its 48-port density and encryption capabilities proved critical for HIPAA compliance. However, the lack of 40G/100G support limits future scalability—teams must plan upgrades carefully. For enterprises prioritizing port flexibility over raw speed, it’s a standout choice. Just ensure your optics budget accounts for Cisco’s premium-priced SFPs; third-party alternatives aren’t worth the risk.