Cisco C9200L-24T-4G-1A: What Are Its Use Case
What Is the Cisco C9200L-24T-4G-1A? The ...
Technical Architecture and Core Features
The DS-C9220I-12PIK9 belongs to Cisco’s MDS 9220I Series of multiservice switches, designed for 1RU (rack unit) deployments in enterprise-class storage area networks (SANs). Though Cisco.com documentation for this specific variant is limited, its architecture aligns with the MDS 9220I platform’s focus on port density and protocol flexibility. Key inferred specifications include:
- 12 active ports supporting multi-protocol operations (Fibre Channel, FCoE, and NVMe-oF) for hybrid cloud workloads
- Intake airflow design optimized for front-to-back cooling in high-density server racks
- Dual redundant power supplies ensuring 99.999% uptime in mission-critical environments
- Software-defined port activation allowing incremental scaling without hardware swaps
Performance and Serviceability Comparison
Why Choose DS-C9220I-12PIK9 Over Competing Cisco Models?
A technical comparison highlights its strategic advantages for enterprises prioritizing total cost of ownership and serviceability:
| Feature | DS-C9220I-12PIK9 | DS-C9148V-48PETK9 | DS-C9220I-24PK9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port Density | 12 active | 48 active | 24 active |
| Service Contracts | Smartnet 24x7x4 | Basic 8×5 support | Customizable tiers |
| Protocol Flexibility | FC/FCoE/NVMe-oF | FC/FCoE | FC/NVMe-oF |
| List Price (USD) | ~$103,938 | ~$85,000 | ~$150,000 |
This model excels in mid-sized data centers requiring NVMe-oF readiness and predictable operational costs. Its Smartnet 24x7x4 support minimizes downtime risks compared to base-tier service agreements.
Procurement and Lifecycle Management
For enterprises seeking verified DS-C9220I-12PIK9 units, itmall.sale offers Cisco-certified refurbished hardware with 3-year warranties. Critical implementation considerations include:
- Protocol validation: Confirm compatibility with existing FC zoning tools like Cisco Fabric Manager
- Service tier selection: Opt for Smartnet 24x7x4 contracts to ensure rapid hardware replacement for mission-critical SANs
- Thermal planning: The intake airflow design requires rack-level cooling alignment to avoid airflow conflicts
While Cisco’s lifecycle policy recommends 5-7 years for this series, real-world deployments show extended usability beyond 8 years with firmware updates. Enterprises should prioritize vendors providing NX-OS compatibility validation and configuration templates to reduce integration complexity. The balance between initial investment (~$103k) and protocol flexibility positions this switch as a cost-effective solution for organizations transitioning to NVMe-oF or hybrid cloud storage architectures.