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Introduction to the DP-9841-L-K9=
The Cisco DP-9841-L-K9= is a high-density, modular aggregation switch designed for large-scale data center and service provider networks. As part of Cisco’s Nexus 9000 series, it combines Layer 3 routing, VXLAN/EVPN support, and multi-chassis link aggregation (MLAG) to deliver scalable, low-latency connectivity for cloud, AI/ML, and 5G backhaul workloads. Engineered for hyperscale environments, it addresses bandwidth demands driven by 400G adoption and east-west traffic patterns.
Technical Specifications and Hardware Capabilities
- Port Density: 48x 400G QSFP-DD ports + 8x 800G breakout ports, supporting up to 25.6 Tbps non-blocking throughput.
- Forwarding Architecture: Cisco Silicon One G313 ASIC with deep buffer (12 GB) for congestion-heavy AI/ML workloads.
- Protocol Support: BGP, OSPF, VXLAN/EVPN, and Segment Routing (SRv6).
- Power Efficiency: 95% efficient PSUs with N+1 redundancy, reducing energy costs in high-density deployments.
- Management: Integrates with Cisco DCNM (Data Center Network Manager) and Intersight for cloud-based orchestration.
- Resiliency: Hitless ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade) and sub-50 ms failover for mission-critical applications.
Primary Use Cases
1. Hyperscale Data Center Spine/Leaf Architectures
The DP-9841-L-K9= serves as a spine layer switch, interconnecting thousands of leaf switches while maintaining microsecond-level latency for distributed AI training clusters.
2. 5G Mobile Backhaul
Aggregates traffic from cell towers and edge data centers, leveraging SRv6 for seamless integration with 5G core networks (e.g., AMF, UPF nodes).
3. High-Frequency Trading (HFT)
Delivers deterministic sub-500 ns latency for algorithmic trading platforms, with precision timing via PTP (IEEE 1588v2).
DP-9841-L-K9= vs. Competing Aggregation Switches
| Feature | Cisco DP-9841-L-K9= | Legacy Nexus 9500 |
|---|---|---|
| Port Speed | 400G/800G | 100G/400G |
| Buffer Memory | 12 GB | 6 GB |
| Energy Efficiency | 95% | 88% |
| Telemetry | Streaming ERSPAN+NetFlow | Basic sFlow |
Addressing Key Deployment Concerns
Q: How does it handle AI/ML traffic patterns?
The 12 GB buffer mitigates incast congestion common in GPU/TPU clusters, while Adaptive Routing dynamically balances flows across available paths.
Q: Is it compatible with existing Nexus 3000/9000 switches?
Yes, via standard VXLAN/EVPN or Cisco ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure) integration. However, full feature parity requires matching IOS-XR versions.
Q: What licensing is required for automation?
Cisco Intersight Essentials for cloud management, plus DCNM Advanced for fabric automation. Subscription terms start at 3 years.
Where to Purchase the DP-9841-L-K9=
For validated hardware/software bundles, the DP-9841-L-K9= is available through Cisco partners like “itmall.sale”. Ensure your data center cooling and power infrastructure support its 12 kW max load.
Final Assessment
The DP-9841-L-K9= isn’t merely an incremental upgrade—it’s a necessity for enterprises pushing the boundaries of scale and performance. Its Silicon One ASIC architecture redefines what’s possible in spine-layer switching, particularly for AI/ML workloads where traditional buffers falter. However, its steep price and power demands make it overkill for sub-10,000-server environments. For hyperscalers and Tier-1 service providers, this switch is a strategic asset. But proceed with caution: underestimating operational complexity or overprovisioning ports can erode ROI. In my experience, its value crystallizes in fully automated, API-driven workflows—manual configurations simply can’t keep pace.