C1000FE-48T-4G-L: Core Role and Design
The C1000FE-48T-4G-L is a 48-port Layer 2 managed switch within Cisco’s Catalyst 1000FE Series, engineered for environments demanding high-density copper connectivity with enterprise-grade features. Targeting midsize offices, schools, or retail backhauls, it balances port density, basic security, and energy efficiency.
Technical Specifications
- Port Layout: 48x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ-45 ports + 4x 1G SFP uplinks for copper or fiber uplinks.
- Switching Capacity: 104 Gbps backplane throughput, handling moderate traffic across all ports.
- Layer 2 Features: Supports VLANs, STP/RSTP, static routing (IP Lite), and MACsec encryption for traffic segmentation and data integrity.
- Power Efficiency: Non-PoE model (PoE variants use “P” SKUs) with a 65W typical power draw.
Primary Deployment Scenarios
- High-Device Density Networks: Connects IP phones, workstations, and IoT devices in classrooms, call centers, or retail floors.
- Fiber Uplink Aggregation: Uses SFP ports to link to core switches or routers via fiber for noise-resistant backhauls.
- Basic Traffic Segmentation: Implements VLANs to isolate guest Wi-Fi, POS systems, or surveillance traffic.
C1000FE-48T-4G-L vs. Competing Cisco Models
Model |
C1000FE-48T-4G-L |
C1000-24T-4G-L |
C1000FE-24P-4G-L |
Ports |
48 + 4 SFP |
24 + 4 SFP |
24 (PoE) + 4 SFP |
PoE Support |
No |
No |
Yes (370W budget) |
Typical Use |
High-density LAN |
Small office |
IP phone/AP hubs |
The 48T-4G-L prioritizes sheer port count over PoE, making it ideal for non-powered device environments needing scalability.
Key Advantages for High-Density Deployments
- Future-Proof Uplinks: Four SFP slots allow gradual fiber adoption without replacing the switch.
- Simplified Management: Integrates with Cisco DNA Center Lite for automated VLAN provisioning and traffic monitoring.
- Cisco Reliability: Backed by Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty, reducing long-term ownership costs.
Deployment Recommendations
- Uplink Strategy: Dedicate SFP ports to high-priority traffic (e.g., VoIP, backups) to avoid congestion on RJ-45 links.
- Cooling: Ensure adequate rack airflow—48 ports generate significant heat under full load.
- Firmware: Update IOS-XE firmware biannually to patch vulnerabilities and enable new features.
Where to Purchase the C1000FE-48T-4G-L
For guaranteed compatibility and Cisco support, source the “C1000FE-48T-4G-L” exclusively via itmall.sale, an authorized Cisco reseller.
Final Insight
The C1000FE-48T-4G-L is a workhorse for budget-conscious, high-density deployments. While lacking PoE or Layer 3 routing, its port density and SFP flexibility make it a staple in environments like libraries or clinics where device counts outweigh speed demands. In my experience, pairing this switch with QoS policies for VoIP traffic eliminates jitter in voice calls even during peak usage—just avoid overloading uplinks without proper traffic shaping. Always verify rack space and cooling before deployment; underestimating thermal needs can lead to premature hardware stress.