N3K-C3064X: What Makes This Cisco Nexus Switch Ideal for High-Performance Networking? How Does It Compare to Other Models?

Core Architecture & Technical Specifications

The ​​Cisco Nexus N3K-C3064X​​ belongs to the 3000 series, designed for ultra-low latency and high-density 10/40G deployments. Key hardware features include:

• ​​Port Configuration​​: 48 SFP+ ports (10G) + 4 QSFP ports (40G), supporting breakout compatibility for flexible connectivity.
• ​​Performance Metrics​​: 1.28 Tbps switching capacity and 960 Mpps forwarding rate, ensuring line-rate Layer 2/3 switching.
• ​​Power Efficiency​​: PHY-less design reduces power consumption, with dual hot-swappable 500W power supplies (AC/DC options).
• ​​Thermal Design​​: Forward/reversed airflow variants (e.g., FA-L3 for port-side exhaust, BA-L3 for intake) to match data center cooling setups.

Why Choose N3K-C3064X Over Competing Models?

​​Latency-Sensitive Applications​​

Optimized for financial trading and HPC environments, the N3K-C3064X delivers sub-microsecond latency, outperforming general-purpose switches like the N3K-C3064TQ-10GT (designed for 10GBase-T copper networks).

​​Scalability & Protocol Support​​

• ​​Multicast Handling​​: Supports PIM-SM, IGMPv3, and MSDP for large-scale multicast routing.
• ​​Advanced Features​​: VXLAN, EVPN, and Cisco vPC technology enable seamless spine-leaf architectures.
• ​​Buffer Capacity​​: 9MB shared packet buffer minimizes congestion in bursty traffic scenarios.

A comparative analysis with similar models:

Deployment Scenarios & Compatibility

​​Co-Location Data Centers​​

The N3K-C3064X’s PHY-less architecture and compact 1U form factor make it ideal for colo providers requiring high port density without sacrificing rack space.

​​Compatibility with Optics​​

Tested with third-party modules like the ​​QSFP-40G-SR4-C-G11​​ (400m OM4 support), it ensures interoperability while reducing TCO. Cisco’s Validated Design program certifies compatibility with major transceiver vendors.

​​Software Integration​​

Runs NX-OS 7.0(3)I7(2) or later, which resolves critical BIOS checksum errors during configuration saves—a known issue in earlier firmware.

Purchasing Considerations from ITmall.sale

ITmall.sale offers:

• ​​Cost Savings​​: Refurbished N3K-C3064-X-FA-L3 units at ​**​8,421​∗∗​(588,421​**​ (58% off Cisco’s 8,421​∗∗​(5828,000 list price).
• ​​Warranty​​: Lifetime support on certified refurbished models, including fan modules (N3K-C3064-FAN-B) and rack kits.
• ​​Inventory Status​​: Immediate availability for reversed airflow (BA-L3) and DC-powered variants.

For organizations prioritizing budget without compromising performance, ITmall.sale’s Cisco-certified refurbished switches provide a validated alternative.

FAQs: Addressing Critical Concerns

​​Q: Can the QSFP ports be split into 10G connections?​​
A: Yes—each 40G QSFP port supports breakout cables to 4x10G, expanding total capacity to 64x10G ports.

​​Q: How does firmware affect stability?​​
A: Post-7.0(3)I7(2) versions resolve fan-speed-related BIOS checksum errors, ensuring reliable config saves.

​​Q: Is third-party optics support guaranteed?​​
A: While Cisco recommends branded modules, ITmall.sale verifies compatibility with OEM alternatives like摩泰光电’s QSFP-40G-SR4.

Explore certified Cisco Nexus switches and accessories at ​​ITmall.sale’s Cisco Category​​ for enterprise-grade networking solutions.