What Is the Cisco GLC-GE-DR-LX=? Gigabit Ethernet Range, Compatibility, and Deployment Insights



​Overview: The Role of the GLC-GE-DR-LX= in Modern Networks​

The ​​Cisco GLC-GE-DR-LX=​​ is a ​​1000BASE-LX/LH SFP transceiver​​ designed for Gigabit Ethernet connectivity over single-mode fiber (SMF). Operating at a ​​1310 nm wavelength​​, it supports distances up to ​​10 kilometers​​, making it ideal for connecting geographically dispersed network segments. Cisco’s official product documentation confirms this module is ​​Cisco-branded​​, ensuring full compatibility with Catalyst and Nexus switches, along with firmware validation.


​Technical Specifications and Performance Benchmarks​

According to Cisco’s datasheets, the GLC-GE-DR-LX= offers:

  • ​Data Rate​​: 1 Gbps (Gigabit Ethernet).
  • ​Fiber Type​​: Single-mode (SMF), ​​9/125 µm core/cladding​​.
  • ​DOM Support​​: Real-time monitoring of temperature, voltage, and TX/RX power.
  • ​Power Consumption​​: 0.8W (typical), reducing energy costs in high-density deployments.

​Performance Comparison​

Feature GLC-GE-DR-LX= Third-Party 1000BASE-LX SFP
Max Distance 10 km 10 km
Cisco Firmware Updates Supported Unavailable
Warranty Lifetime 1–5 years

​Compatibility: Validated Cisco Devices​

The GLC-GE-DR-LX= is certified for use with:

  • ​Catalyst Switches​​: 2960-X, 3560-X, 3850, 4500-E, and 9300 Series.
  • ​Nexus Switches​​: N3K-C3064PQ-10GE, N9K-C93180YC-FX3.
  • ​Routers​​: ASR 1000 Series, ISR 4000 Series.

Cisco’s compatibility matrix notes that using non-certified SFPs in ​​Nexus 9500​​ platforms may trigger ​​unsupported transceiver alerts​​, disrupting network automation workflows.


​Primary Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios​

​1. Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs)​

The module’s ​​10 km reach​​ enables cost-effective links between corporate offices and data centers within urban areas.

​2. Campus Backbone Connectivity​

Deploy between core and distribution switches to eliminate latency bottlenecks in high-traffic environments.

​3. Service Provider Aggregation​

ISPs leverage the GLC-GE-DR-LX= for last-mile fiber-to-the-business (FTTB) deployments, pairing it with ​​Cisco ASR 9000​​ routers.


​User Concerns Addressed​

​Q: Does it work with multimode fiber?​

No. The GLC-GE-DR-LX= requires ​​single-mode fiber (SMF)​​. For multimode, use the ​​GLC-GE-SX-MMD=​​ (550 m range).

​Q: Can it achieve 10 km without amplification?​

Yes, but only with ​​OS2 single-mode fiber​​ and LC connectors. Patch panels or splices may reduce effective range.

​Q: How to resolve “SFP not recognized” errors?​

Update the switch’s IOS/XE/NX-OS to the latest version via ​​Cisco Software Center​​. If issues persist, replace the module.


​Best Practices for Installation and Maintenance​

  • ​Fiber Cleaning​​: Inspect connectors with a fiber scope to prevent contamination-related signal loss.
  • ​Link Budgeting​​: Ensure total attenuation (fiber + connectors) stays below ​​3.5 dB​​ for stable 10 km performance.
  • ​Inventory Tagging​​: Label SFPs with installation dates to track end-of-life (EoL) cycles.

For procurement, visit the [“GLC-GE-DR-LX=” link to (https://itmall.sale/product-category/cisco/).


​Why This Module Remains Relevant in 10G/25G Networks​

Despite the industry’s shift toward multi-gigabit speeds, the GLC-GE-DR-LX= persists as a workhorse in networks prioritizing cost efficiency over raw throughput. In sectors like education or local government—where budget constraints clash with legacy infrastructure needs—this SFP bridges the gap. Cisco’s lifetime warranty and firmware support further eliminate the hidden costs of third-party alternatives. For engineers tasked with maintaining hybrid architectures, the GLC-GE-DR-LX= isn’t just a relic; it’s proof that Gigabit Ethernet still delivers value in carefully scoped deployments.

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