What is DS-9718-KIT-CCO=? Cisco’s Modular Backplane Expansion Kit Explained



Understanding the DS-9718-KIT-CCO=

The ​​DS-9718-KIT-CCO=​​ is a Cisco-authorized expansion kit designed to enhance the scalability of high-end Cisco Catalyst 9000 and Nexus chassis-based systems. This kit provides additional backplane connectivity for modular switches, enabling enterprises to add line cards, increase port density, or integrate advanced services without replacing existing hardware. The “CCO” suffix indicates it’s sold through Cisco’s Connection Online program, ensuring authenticity and compliance with licensing terms.


Key Technical Features

  • ​Backplane Capacity​​: Supports up to 18 slots in compatible chassis (e.g., Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series), enabling ​​3.6 Tbps per-slot bandwidth​​ for data-intensive workloads.
  • ​Hot-Swap Compatibility​​: Modules can be added or replaced without downtime, critical for environments requiring 24/7 uptime.
  • ​Universal Compatibility​​: Works with Cisco’s Crossbar Fabric Architecture, ensuring interoperability with third-generation line cards like C9400-LC-48UX and C9400-LC-24Q.

Why Enterprises Deploy This Kit

Organizations use the DS-9718-KIT-CCO= to:

  1. ​Scale Data Centers​​: Expand port capacity for hyperscale cloud or AI/ML workloads.
  2. ​Consolidate Hardware​​: Replace multiple legacy switches with a single chassis, reducing rack space and power consumption.
  3. ​Future-Proof Networks​​: Prepare for 400G/800G uplinks by ensuring backplane headroom.

Common Use Cases

  • ​Hybrid Cloud Deployments​​: Seamlessly connect on-premises infrastructure to public cloud gateways.
  • ​High-Frequency Trading (HFT)​​: Ultra-low latency and deterministic performance for financial networks.
  • ​Media Streaming​​: Guaranteed bandwidth for 4K/8K video production workflows.

Purchasing and Licensing Considerations

The DS-9718-KIT-CCO= requires a valid Cisco service contract for firmware updates and TAC support. Licensing is tied to the chassis serial number, so buyers must verify compatibility with existing hardware. For verified refurbished options or discounted pricing, [“DS-9718-KIT-CCO=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/) offers Cisco-certified preconfigured kits.


Performance Comparison: DS-9718-KIT-CCO= vs. Competing Solutions

​Criteria​ ​DS-9718-KIT-CCO=​ ​Generic Backplane Kits​
Bandwidth per Slot 3.6 Tbps 1.2–2.4 Tbps
Cisco DNA Center Support Yes No
Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) 200,000 hours 50,000–100,000 hours

Addressing Common Concerns

​Q: Does this kit work with non-Cisco line cards?​
A: No. The DS-9718-KIT-CCO= is optimized for Cisco’s ASIC-based modules. Third-party cards may cause firmware conflicts.

​Q: How does it handle firmware upgrades?​
A: Cisco’s IOS XE Software Bundle 17.12.1 or later is required. Upgrades are managed via Cisco DNA Center.


Final Thoughts

The DS-9718-KIT-CCO= exemplifies Cisco’s strategy of blending modular scalability with investment protection. While the upfront cost is higher than generic alternatives, the reduction in operational complexity and compatibility with Cisco’s ecosystem justifies the premium. For teams managing large-scale upgrades, this kit is a pragmatic choice—assuming they’ve already standardized on Cisco’s chassis architecture.

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