Cisco UCSC-P-N6D25GF= Dual-Port 25GbE OCP3.0
Technical Architecture & Design Objectives...
Overview of the Cisco C9300X-24Y-10A
The Cisco C9300X-24Y-10A is a high-density, fixed-configuration switch from the Catalyst 9000X series, designed for enterprise core and data center edge deployments. It balances 25G port density, advanced security, and scalability, making it ideal for organizations managing bandwidth-intensive applications like cloud services, AI/ML workloads, and real-time collaboration platforms.
Core Technical Specifications
- Port Configuration: 24 x 25G SFP28 ports + 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks.
- Performance: 1.44 Tbps switching capacity with Cisco DNA Advantage licensing, enabling features like predictive routing, encrypted traffic analytics, and automated QoS.
- Scalability: Supports StackWise®-Virtual for multi-domain stacking, allowing up to 8 switches to operate as a single entity.
- Security: MACsec-256 encryption on all ports, ensuring data integrity for sensitive workloads.
Key User Concerns Addressed
Q: Why prioritize 25G ports over 10G or 40G?
25G strikes a cost-performance balance, offering twice the bandwidth of 10G while using the same SFP28 transceivers as 40G (via breakout cables). This makes it ideal for spine-leaf architectures or hyper-converged infrastructure (HCI).
Q: Can this switch handle AI/ML traffic?
Yes. The 1.44 Tbps throughput and ultra-low latency (<1μs) ensure seamless connectivity for GPU clusters and distributed storage systems, critical for AI training and inference.
C9300X-24Y-10A vs. Catalyst 9300X Modular Models
Unlike modular models like the C9300X-12Y-M, this fixed-configuration switch eliminates expansion complexity, reducing upfront costs for enterprises not requiring future 40/100G upgrades. However, it lacks the flexibility to add higher-speed ports later.
Licensing and Procurement Guidance
The “10A” suffix indicates pre-installed Cisco DNA Advantage licensing, covering advanced automation, assurance, and security features. For cost-conscious buyers, “C9300X-24Y-10A” at itmall.sale occasionally offers refurbished units with verified warranties.
Deployment Insights from Enterprise Networks
In a recent deployment for a video streaming provider, the C9300X-24Y-10A’s 25G ports and MACsec encryption ensured uninterrupted 4K content delivery while securing DRM-protected streams. However, its lack of PoE limits use in IoT-heavy edge deployments. For enterprises prioritizing core network modernization, this switch delivers future-ready performance—just ensure your team is trained on DNA Center for full feature utilization. Over-provisioning 25G ports without a clear roadmap can lead to underused capacity, so align purchases with 3-5-year traffic projections.