Cisco WS-C2960-24LC-S Catalyst

Cisco WS-C2960-24LC-S Overview

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960-24LC-S is a highly reliable Layer 2 managed switch from Cisco’s 2960 Series, designed for small to medium-sized business networks and enterprise edge deployments. This model features 24 Fast Ethernet ports, including 8 Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports, ideal for powering devices like IP phones, surveillance cameras, and wireless access points directly through the Ethernet cable.

Key Features of the Cisco WS-C2960-24LC-S Switch:

• 24 Fast Ethernet ports (10/100 Mbps) for wired network connections.

• 8 PoE (Power over Ethernet) ports, capable of delivering up to 15.4W per port, perfect for powering IP phones, cameras, and wireless access points.

• 2 dual-purpose uplink ports (each can be used as either a 10/100/1000 Ethernet or SFP fiber port).

• PoE power budget of up to 123W, allowing multiple PoE devices to be powered simultaneously.

• Cisco IOS LAN Lite software, offering basic Layer 2 switching capabilities and simplified management.

• Security features such as port security, DHCP snooping, and MAC address filtering.

• Energy-efficient design with Cisco EnergyWise technology.

• QoS (Quality of Service) support to prioritize critical traffic such as voice or video.

Advantages of the WS-C2960-24LC-S Switch Compared to Other Switches :

• Built-in PoE support: Many lower-end switches do not support PoE, whereas this model can power up to 8 PoE devices without needing additional power injectors.

• Dual-purpose uplinks: Flexible connectivity options with either copper Gigabit Ethernet or fiber via SFP, enhancing network scalability.

• Trusted Cisco reliability: Cisco is a global leader in networking hardware, and the 2960 Series is known for its durability, security, and consistent performance.

• Enhanced network security: Compared to unmanaged or basic smart switches, this model includes enterprise-grade security features to protect the network.

• Cost-effective for SMBs: While offering enterprise-level features, it’s priced affordably for small and medium businesses.

Where Is the WS-C2960-24LC-S Switch Best Used ?

• Small to medium-sized businesses that need reliable Ethernet connectivity with PoE capabilities.

• Offices using VoIP phones, as it can power phones directly via Ethernet.

• IP surveillance systems, where cameras can be powered through the switch without separate power sources.

• Educational institutions deploying wireless access points and IP devices across classrooms or campuses.

• Branch offices or retail locations that require compact, manageable, and energy-efficient switching solutions.

Why This Switch Doesn’t Support StackWise Technology ?

The WS-C2960-24LC-S switch is designed for simple and small-scale networking needs, and it is not suitable for larger networks that require switch stacking and more complex management. If you are looking for switches with stacking capabilities, models like the 2960-S or 2960-X that support StackWise would be better options.

You can also visit the manufacturer’s website link for more information.

You can also visit the Cisco WS-C3750G-12S-S Catalyst , Cisco WS-C3560X-48PF-L Catalyst , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.