What Is the Cisco C9300L-48T-4G-A? Non-PoE Performance, Licensing, and Ideal Use Cases

​​Overview of the Cisco C9300L-48T-4G-A​​

The Cisco C9300L-48T-4G-A is a ​​high-density, non-PoE Layer 3 switch​​ from the Catalyst 9300L series, designed for networks prioritizing data throughput over power delivery. With 48 copper ports and integrated 1G uplinks, it suits environments like data centers, campus backbones, or high-traffic enterprise offices requiring reliable connectivity.

​​Key Technical Specifications​​

• ​​Port Configuration​​: 48 x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 ports, 4 x 1G SFP uplinks.
• ​​Power Efficiency​​: ​​Energy-efficient ASICs​​ reduce power consumption by up to 30% compared to older models.
• ​​Performance​​: ​​160 Gbps switching capacity​​ with ​​Cisco DNA Advantage licensing​​ pre-installed for advanced analytics and automation.
• ​​Scalability​​: Supports ​​StackWise®-160​​, allowing up to 8 switches to operate as a single logical unit.

​​User Concerns Addressed​​

​​Q: Why choose a non-PoE switch like the C9300L-48T-4G-A?​​
This model eliminates the cost and complexity of PoE infrastructure for networks not reliant on powered devices (e.g., servers, non-wireless workstations). It ensures ​​lower power draw and reduced heat generation​​, ideal for climate-sensitive data centers.

​​Q: Can it handle high-traffic workloads?​​
The four 1G SFP uplinks and 160 Gbps capacity support bandwidth-heavy tasks like database synchronization or large file transfers, but lack 10G/40G uplinks may limit scalability for hyperscale applications.

​​C9300L-48T-4G-A vs. PoE Models​​

Unlike the PoE-heavy C9300L-48PF-4X-E, the 48T-4G-A ​​prioritizes cost efficiency and simplicity​​, making it better suited for server farms or networks without IoT/Wi-Fi APs. However, the absence of PoE+ limits flexibility for future device expansions requiring power.

​​Licensing and Deployment Considerations​​

The “A” suffix confirms ​​pre-installed Cisco DNA Advantage licensing​​, providing full access to SD-Access, AI-driven network insights, and automated policy enforcement. This reduces upfront software costs but requires annual renewal for continued feature access.

For verified sourcing, explore the [“C9300L-48T-4G-A” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/). itmall.sale offers competitive pricing for bulk deployments, though availability may vary due to demand.

​​Lessons from Real-World Deployments​​

In data center retrofits I’ve consulted on, the C9300L-48T-4G-A proves invaluable for ​​simplifying cable management and reducing energy bills​​. However, its lack of PoE and 10G uplinks means meticulous planning is required for future scalability. If your network doesn’t currently need IoT support, this model avoids overprovisioning—but always map future device requirements to avoid costly mid-lifecycle upgrades.