C9300-48UB-A= Overview: Design and Primary Use Cases
The Cisco Catalyst 9300-48UB-A= is a non-PoE, fixed-configuration switch optimized for high-speed data routing in environments where power-over-Ethernet isn’t a priority. As part of the Catalyst 9000 series, it delivers 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports with Layer 3 capabilities, making it ideal for:
- Core network aggregation in data centers or enterprise backbones.
- Bandwidth-intensive applications like video streaming or large file transfers.
- SD-Access deployments requiring programmable infrastructure.
Unlike PoE models, the 48UB-A= focuses purely on data throughput, reducing costs for organizations that don’t need device power delivery.
Critical Technical Specifications
- Ports: 48 x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ45, 4 x 1G/10G SFP+ uplinks.
- Forwarding Rate: 136 Gbps with 102 Mpps packet processing.
- Stacking: StackWise-320 supports up to eight switches in a single logical unit.
- Security: Cisco DNA Center integration for zero-trust policies and encrypted traffic analytics.
- Resiliency: Dual redundant power supplies (sold separately) and fan trays for high availability.
C9300-48UB-A= vs. PoE Models: Cost vs. Functionality
The 48UB-A= lacks PoE but compensates with lower upfront costs and simplified thermal management. Compare:
- Cost Savings: Up to 20% cheaper than PoE equivalents like the C9300-48P-RA.
- Reduced Complexity: No need to manage power budgets or heat dissipation from PoE devices.
- Use Case Focus: Ideal for server farms, storage area networks (SANs), or backbone links where pure data speed matters.
If your network powers devices like cameras or APs, consider PoE models. For pure data workloads, the 48UB-A= is a leaner choice.
Optimal Deployment Scenarios
- Data Center Edge: Connect hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI) nodes or SANs with low-latency 10G uplinks.
- Enterprise Wiring Closets: Aggregate traffic from access-layer switches without PoE overhead.
- Media Production Networks: Handle 4K/8K video editing workflows requiring uninterrupted 1Gbps port density.
The switch’s Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) compliance reduces power consumption by up to 40% during low-traffic periods.
Licensing and Procurement via ITMALL.SALE
To ensure compliance and warranty coverage, purchase the C9300-48UB-A= through authorized partners like ITMALL.SALE. They provide:
- Genuine Cisco hardware with pre-loaded IOS XE software.
- Cisco DNA licensing tailored for automation and assurance features.
- Bulk deployment packages for enterprises scaling SD-Access architectures.
Final Perspective: Is the 48UB-A= a Fit for Your Network?
Having deployed this switch in backbone roles, I’ve found its lack of PoE is a strength, not a limitation, in data-centric environments. For organizations with separate power infrastructure, the 48UB-A= eliminates unnecessary costs while delivering wire-speed performance. Pair it with Cisco’s DNA Advantage license to automate QoS for latency-sensitive apps, and you’ll maximize ROI. If your roadmap includes SD-Access or network segmentation, this model’s programmability ensures it won’t become obsolete.