When selecting a network switch, understanding the features, capabilities, and compatibility of different models is crucial. This article will compare three Cisco switches: the Cisco WS-C2950C-24, the Cisco WS-CE520-8PC-K9, and the Cisco WS-C4948E. Each of these switches caters to different needs, from small businesses to larger enterprise networks.
Cisco WS-C2950C-24 Overview
The Cisco WS-C2950C-24 is a versatile, rack-mountable switch designed for reliability and flexibility. This switch is ideal for small to medium-sized networks that require a dependable solution. Its features include:
- 24 10/100 Fast Ethernet Ports: Suitable for basic networking needs, allowing multiple device connections.
- 2 100BASE-FX Uplinks: Enhanced connectivity for faster data transfer and improved network performance.
- 8.8 Gbit/s Bandwidth Capacity: Supports moderate network traffic, ensuring smooth data flow.
- 16 MB RAM and 8 MB Flash: Adequate for basic network operations, providing sufficient memory for storing configurations.
- Redundant Power Supply: Ensures continuous operation in case of a power failure, enhancing network reliability.
- Advanced Quality of Service (QoS): Manages network traffic effectively, prioritizing critical data.
- Standards and Protocols: Supports IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.1D, IEEE 802.3x, SNMP, and CDP.
- Dimensions: 17.5 in x 9.5 in x 1.7 in, making it compact and easy to fit in standard racks.
Cisco WS-CE520-8PC-K9 Overview
The Cisco WS-CE520-8PC-K9 is tailored for small and medium-sized businesses, offering robust features at an affordable price. This switch is part of the Cisco Smart Business Communications System, making it a comprehensive solution for growing businesses. Key features include:
- 8 10/100 Access Ports with PoE: Ideal for powering IP devices such as phones and cameras, reducing the need for additional power supplies.
- 1 10/100/1000BASE-T or SFP Uplink: Flexible uplink options for higher-speed connectivity and improved network scalability.
- 3.6 Gbps Switch Capacity: Suitable for small to medium network environments, ensuring efficient data handling.
- 64 MB DRAM and 16 MB Flash: Provides better memory capacity compared to the WS-C2950C-24, supporting more advanced configurations.
- Integrated Security and QoS: Ensures network security and efficient traffic management, crucial for business operations.
- Management Protocols: Supports RMON, SNMP 3, and various IEEE standards, enabling comprehensive network management.
- Power Supply: 204 W, with wide voltage support (100-240VAC), ensuring compatibility with different power sources.
- Dimensions: 1.73 x 10.6 x 9.1 in, making it compact and easy to install in various environments.
Cisco WS-C4948E Overview
For larger enterprise environments, the Cisco WS-C4948E offers high performance and manageability. This switch is designed to handle intensive network tasks, providing a robust solution for critical applications. Its standout features include:
- 48 Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 Ports: Supports extensive device connectivity, ideal for large-scale networks.
- 4 SFP+ Uplinks: Provides high-speed uplink options for optimal data transfer, enhancing network performance.
- 176 Gbps Bandwidth Capacity: Handles high network traffic efficiently, ensuring smooth and reliable data flow.
- 1 GB RAM: Offers significant memory for complex network operations, supporting advanced configurations and high-performance tasks.
- Redundant Hot-Swappable Power Supplies: Ensures uninterrupted operation, even during maintenance or power supply failures.
- Comprehensive Management Tools: Includes WebUI, CLI, and SNMP for easy management and quick error isolation.
- Advanced Features: Supports Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, providing enhanced network management and routing capabilities.
- Dimensions: 1.75 x 17.5 x 19.4 in, making it suitable for standard rack installations in data centers and enterprise environments.
Detailed Comparison
To better understand the differences and suitability of each Cisco switch, let’s compare their key features side-by-side:
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Cisco WS-C2950C-24
- Target Audience: Small to medium-sized networks.
- Port Configuration: 24 10/100 Fast Ethernet Ports and 2 100BASE-FX Uplinks.
- Bandwidth: 8.8 Gbit/s.
- Memory: 16 MB RAM, 8 MB Flash.
- Power Redundancy: Yes.
- QoS: Advanced QoS for traffic management.
- Standards & Protocols: IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.1D, IEEE 802.3x, SNMP, CDP.
- Dimensions: 17.5 in x 9.5 in x 1.7 in.
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Cisco WS-CE520-8PC-K9
- Target Audience: Small to medium-sized businesses.
- Port Configuration: 8 10/100 Access Ports with PoE, 1 10/100/1000BASE-T or SFP Uplink.
- Bandwidth: 3.6 Gbps.
- Memory: 64 MB DRAM, 16 MB Flash.
- Power Redundancy: No.
- PoE Capability: Yes.
- Security & QoS: Integrated security and QoS.
- Standards & Protocols: RMON, SNMP 3, IEEE standards.
- Dimensions: 1.73 x 10.6 x 9.1 in.
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Cisco WS-C4948E
- Target Audience: Large enterprises.
- Port Configuration: 48 Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 Ports, 4 SFP+ Uplinks.
- Bandwidth: 176 Gbps.
- Memory: 1 GB RAM.
- Power Redundancy: Yes, hot-swappable.
- Advanced Management: WebUI, CLI, SNMP.
- Layer Support: Layer 2 and Layer 3.
- Dimensions: 1.75 x 17.5 x 19.4 in.
Conclusion
Selecting the right switch depends on your specific networking needs:
- For basic networking needs: The Cisco WS-C2950C-24 offers essential features and reliable performance, making it ideal for small to medium-sized networks. Its redundant power supply and advanced QoS ensure continuous operation and effective traffic management.
- For small to medium-sized businesses: The Cisco WS-CE520-8PC-K9 provides PoE capabilities, integrated security, and better memory capacity, making it suitable for growing businesses needing to power IP devices and manage network traffic efficiently.
- For large enterprises: The Cisco WS-C4948E excels with high bandwidth capacity, extensive port options, and advanced management tools, making it the perfect choice for large-scale networks requiring robust performance and reliability.
For further assistance in choosing the perfect switch for your network, contact us today. Our experts are ready to help you make an informed decision and ensure your network runs smoothly and efficiently.
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