Cisco WS-C2960-8TC-S Catalyst

Cisco WS-C2960-8TC-S Catalyst Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C2960-8TC-S Catalyst Switch is a reliable, cost-effective Layer 2 switch from Cisco’s trusted Catalyst 2960 Series, purpose-built for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), branch offices, retail deployments, and workgroups that require secure, high-performance Ethernet connectivity. With a compact form factor and enterprise-grade features, this switch delivers simple and secure network access while minimizing operational complexity.

Despite its size, the WS-C2960-8TC-S offers powerful features including VLAN segmentation, essential security controls, and flexible uplink options. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where space, power consumption, and ease of deployment are top priorities.

Key Features and Benefits

The Cisco WS-C2960-8TC-S Catalyst Switch delivers a compelling combination of compact design, essential Layer 2 functionality, and enterprise-class reliability tailored for small-scale deployments.

With 8 Fast Ethernet ports, it offers seamless connectivity for devices like desktop computers, printers, and IP phones, making it ideal for branch offices and retail environments. The switch includes a dual-purpose uplink—featuring one Gigabit Ethernet and one SFP port—providing flexible options for high-speed uplinks over copper or fiber.

Its support for VLANs (IEEE 802.1Q) enables secure and efficient network segmentation, allowing administrators to isolate traffic between departments or device groups. Built with a fanless architecture, the WS-C2960-8TC-S operates silently, making it suitable for noise-sensitive areas such as classrooms, healthcare facilities, and retail counters.

Cisco’s LAN Lite IOS software provides a simplified yet robust set of management tools, including intuitive CLI access and Cisco Express Setup, reducing deployment complexity. Integrated security features like port security and DHCP snooping help prevent unauthorized access, while basic QoS functionality prioritizes critical traffic, ensuring performance for essential applications like VoIP or video.

Overall, this switch strikes a perfect balance between affordability, manageability, and functionality, offering a dependable network foundation for growing businesses or distributed network extensions.

• 8 Fast Ethernet Ports + 1 Dual-Purpose Uplink

The switch includes 8 × 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet ports for connecting workstations, printers, and IP devices. It also features a dual-purpose uplink—either 1 × 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet port or 1 × SFP-based Gigabit uplink—offering flexibility to integrate fiber or copper uplinks based on network design.

• Compact, Fanless Design for Quiet Operation

Engineered for deployment in space-constrained or noise-sensitive environments, the WS-C2960-8TC-S features a compact, fanless chassis. This ensures silent operation, making it ideal for retail locations, classrooms, or small branch offices.

• Layer 2 Switching with VLAN and QoS Support

Operating at Layer 2, this switch supports IEEE 802.1Q VLANs, allowing logical segmentation of the network to enhance performance and security. Quality of Service (QoS) features ensure prioritized traffic handling, particularly beneficial for voice and video applications.

• Integrated Security Features

With support for port security, dynamic address learning, and secure administrative access, the WS-C2960-8TC-S helps prevent unauthorized connections and protects data integrity. These features are essential in safeguarding business-critical infrastructure.

• Cisco LAN Lite IOS Software

Bundled with Cisco’s LAN Lite IOS image, the switch delivers essential network management capabilities. Features such as Cisco Express Setup and intuitive CLI access allow for straightforward configuration and monitoring—even for IT teams with limited Cisco experience.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Why Choose Cisco WS-C2960-8TC-S?

The WS-C2960-8TC-S is engineered to provide dependable and secure Layer 2 connectivity in a compact, energy-efficient form factor. Whether you’re building out a small network at a remote branch, deploying point-of-sale devices in a retail space, or simply extending connectivity to a workgroup, this switch delivers reliable performance backed by Cisco’s trusted technology.

With VLAN support for traffic segmentation, port-level security to prevent unauthorized access, and a Gigabit uplink option for network scaling, the WS-C2960-8TC-S strikes an excellent balance between simplicity and capability. It’s particularly suitable for businesses looking to deploy secure, managed switches without the overhead of more complex Layer 3 features.

Ideal Applications

1. Retail environments and point-of-sale systems

2. Small business LANs and workgroup connectivity

3. Branch office network extensions

4. Secure desktop or IP phone deployments

5. Low-noise or space-constrained installations

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

You can also visit the Cisco WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Catalyst , Cisco WS-C3560V2-24TS-S Catalyst , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.