Cisco C1300-24XT: What Are Its Advantages?, Key Features, and Where Should It Be Deployed?

Overview of the Cisco C1300-24XT

The ​​Cisco C1300-24XT​​ is a Layer 2+ managed switch designed to deliver high-performance connectivity and Power over Ethernet (PoE) flexibility for small to midsize networks. Balancing affordability with enterprise-grade features, it caters to environments requiring scalable PoE support and reliable uplink bandwidth for data-intensive applications.

Core Technical Specifications

• ​​24x Gigabit Ethernet Ports​​: Includes ​​16x PoE+ ports​​ (30W per port) and ​​8x non-PoE ports​​, with a total PoE budget of ​​240W​​ for devices like wireless APs and IP cameras.
• ​​4x 10G SFP+ Uplinks​​: Provides high-speed connectivity to core switches or servers, reducing bottlenecks in high-traffic scenarios.
• ​​Cisco IOS-Lite Software​​: Supports ​​Layer 3 Lite​​ features (static routing, RIP), ​​VLANs​​, ​​QoS​​, and ​​port security​​ for granular traffic control.
• ​​Energy Efficiency​​: Auto-sensing ports adjust power delivery based on device needs, minimizing energy waste.

Addressing Key User Concerns

​​Q: Can the C1300-24XT handle both PoE and non-PoE devices efficiently?​​
Yes. Its hybrid port design allows admins to power PoE devices (e.g., access points) while dedicating non-PoE ports to servers or workstations, optimizing resource allocation.

​​Q: Is it suitable for multisite deployments?​​
With ​​Layer 3 Lite routing​​, it can manage inter-VLAN traffic and basic routing tasks, making it ideal for branch offices or distributed campuses requiring localized control.

Ideal Deployment Scenarios

• ​​Hospitality Networks​​: Powers IP phones, guest Wi-Fi access points, and surveillance cameras while segregating staff and guest traffic via VLANs.
• ​​Education Campuses​​: Connects classroom devices, AV systems, and wireless APs, with QoS prioritizing video streaming and e-learning tools.
• ​​Small Data Centers​​: 10G uplinks ensure fast connectivity to storage servers or hypervisors, while PoE+ ports support out-of-band management devices.

Procurement and Optimization

For organizations balancing cost and performance, the ​​C1300-24XT​​ is available via itmall.sale. Ensure firmware is updated to leverage the latest security patches, and use Cisco’s Network Assistant for simplified configuration.

Hands-On Assessment

In practical deployments, the ​​C1300-24XT​​ bridges the gap between basic PoE switches and premium Layer 3 models. Its ​​10G uplinks​​ and ​​hybrid port layout​​ offer flexibility for growing networks, though the limited PoE budget may require careful planning for high-density IoT setups. For SMBs or schools needing a future-proof foundation without overinvesting, this switch strikes a compelling balance.