Understanding the DS-C24V-24EVK9PRM Switch

The ​​DS-C24V-24EVK9PRM​​ is a Cisco Catalyst 2960V series switch, part of Cisco’s legacy lineup for small to medium-sized enterprise networks. This 24-port switch is designed to deliver ​​Layer 2 switching capabilities​​ with enhanced security and Quality of Service (QoS) features. While Cisco.com no longer actively markets this model, it remains relevant for specific use cases requiring cost-effective, reliable connectivity in environments like retail, healthcare, or branch offices.

Key Technical Specifications and Features

• ​​Port Configuration​​: 24 x 10/100 Ethernet ports with ​​Power over Ethernet (PoE) support​​, enabling devices like IP phones, cameras, or wireless APs.
• ​​Performance​​: 6.5 Gbps switching capacity and 4.8 Mpps forwarding rate.
• ​​Software​​: Ships with ​​Cisco IOS LAN Base​​ image, supporting VLANs, STP, and basic ACLs.
• ​​Licensing​​: The ​​“EVK9PRM”​​ suffix indicates an ​​Enhanced License Bundle​​, unlocking advanced features like:
  • ​​Voice VLANs​​ for prioritizing VoIP traffic.
  • ​​Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI)​​ and ​​IP Source Guard​​ for security.
  • ​​LLDP-MED​​ for auto-configuring connected devices.

​​Bold takeaway​​: The PoE support simplifies deployments by eliminating the need for separate power supplies for connected devices.

Primary Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

1. ​​Legacy Network Upgrades​​: Replace unmanaged switches in aging infrastructures without overhauling cabling.
2. ​​Edge Connectivity​​: Provide reliable wired access for IoT devices, POS systems, or digital signage.
3. ​​Voice over IP (VoIP) Optimization​​: Prioritize voice traffic via LLDP-MED and QoS policies.

Compatibility and Limitations

• ​​Hardware​​: Integrates with Cisco Catalyst 2960/3560/3750 series switches for stacking or uplink redundancy.
• ​​Software​​: Runs Cisco IOS 15.x but lacks support for newer features like software-defined access (SD-Access) or RESTCONF APIs.
• ​​End-of-Life (EoL) Considerations​​: Cisco ended official support in 2020, meaning no firmware updates or TAC coverage.

​​Critical note​​: While functional, this switch is not recommended for environments requiring high-density 1G/10G uplinks or cloud management.

Addressing Common User Concerns

​​Q: Can the DS-C24V-24EVK9PRM handle modern bandwidth demands?​​
A: For basic office tasks (email, web browsing), yes. However, ​​4K video streaming or large file transfers may strain its 6.5 Gbps backplane​​.

​​Q: Is PoE+ supported?​​
A: No. The switch provides ​​15.4W per port (IEEE 802.3af)​​, sufficient for basic IP phones but inadequate for high-power devices like PTZ cameras.

​​Q: How to source replacement parts or licenses?​​
A: Third-party suppliers like [“DS-C24V-24EVK9PRM” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/) offer refurbished units and license transfers. Ensure firmware is pre-loaded to avoid compatibility issues.

Procurement and Cost Considerations

While discontinued, refurbished DS-C24V-24EVK9PRM units are priced 40–60% lower than newer Catalyst 9200/9300 models. However, factor in potential downtime risks due to hardware aging. For mission-critical setups, consider pairing with a support contract from itmall.sale to access limited troubleshooting assistance.

Final Insights

Having deployed DS-C24V-24EVK9PRM switches in budget-constrained school districts, I’ve found their simplicity and PoE support invaluable for retrofitting old buildings. That said, their lack of cloud management and EoL status make them a short-term fix rather than a long-term solution. For businesses eyeing IoT expansions or remote monitoring, investing in newer Catalyst 1000 or Meraki MS225 models is wiser—despite higher upfront costs. Always audit existing infrastructure: if your network still relies on 10/100 devices, this switch might suffice; otherwise, prioritize gigabit-capable hardware.