What Is the C9300-24P-EDU Switch? Features, Licensing, and Deployment Scenarios Explained



Introduction to the C9300-24P-EDU

The ​​Cisco Catalyst C9300-24P-EDU​​ is a purpose-built networking switch designed for educational institutions and organizations requiring robust Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. As part of Cisco’s EDU (Education) series, this model combines high-density connectivity with cost-effective licensing tailored for academic use cases.


Core Technical Specifications

  • ​Port Configuration​​: 24x Gigabit Ethernet ports with ​​740W PoE+ support​​, plus 4x10G SFP+ uplinks for high-speed backbone connectivity.
  • ​Performance​​: Delivers ​​1.6 Tbps switching capacity​​ and supports advanced features like StackWise®-480 for scalable deployments.
  • ​Software​​: Runs Cisco IOS® XE Software with ​​DNA Center integration​​ for centralized management and automation.
  • ​Security​​: Includes ​​Cisco Umbrella® integration​​ and MACsec encryption for safeguarding sensitive data.

Key Differences Between EDU and Standard Models

  • ​Licensing​​: The C9300-24P-EDU comes with ​​pre-bundled Education Advantage licensing​​, reducing upfront costs for schools and universities.
  • ​Warranty​​: Offers extended ​​5-year hardware and software support​​ under Cisco’s Education Licensing program.
  • ​Compliance​​: Meets E-Rate funding requirements in the U.S., making it eligible for federal subsidies.

Ideal Deployment Scenarios

  • ​Classroom Connectivity​​: Powers IP phones, wireless access points, and interactive displays in high-density environments.
  • ​Campus-Wide Networks​​: Supports seamless roaming for students and faculty across large academic facilities.
  • ​Hybrid Learning Infrastructure​​: Enables reliable video conferencing and cloud-based collaboration tools.

Procurement and Availability

The C9300-24P-EDU is available exclusively through Cisco’s authorized EDU licensing channels. For institutions seeking verified pricing and compliance, ​“C9300-24P-EDU” can be sourced via itmall.sale​.


Addressing Critical User Questions

​Q: How does PoE+ capacity impact device support?​
A: The ​​740W budget​​ allows simultaneous power delivery to 24x Class 4 devices (e.g., 802.11ax APs or PTZ cameras) without overloading the switch.

​Q: Can non-educational entities purchase this model?​
A: No—the EDU series requires proof of eligibility, such as tax-exempt status or affiliation with an accredited institution.

​Q: Is software upgradable to non-EDU licenses?​
A: Yes, but transitioning to standard licenses forfeits EDU-specific pricing and compliance benefits.


Final Perspective

The C9300-24P-EDU addresses a critical gap in educational IT by balancing performance with affordability. Its PoE+ capabilities and pre-negotiated licensing terms make it a pragmatic choice for schools modernizing aging networks. While procurement options are restricted, working with authorized partners ensures adherence to Cisco’s EDU program guidelines—a non-negotiable for institutions leveraging public funding.

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