Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PD-I Catalysat

Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PD-I Catalyst Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PD-I is a stackable, enterprise-class Layer 2 and Lite Layer 3 switch from the Cisco Catalyst 2960-XR Series, purpose-built to address the performance, flexibility, and scalability requirements of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and branch office environments. It combines advanced hardware reliability with Cisco’s renowned IOS software, offering an energy-efficient and secure access layer solution.

This model distinguishes itself with 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports, capable of powering network devices such as IP phones, wireless access points (WAPs), and security cameras via a single Ethernet cable. The switch delivers a total PoE budget of 370W, which makes it an excellent choice for streamlined deployments with reduced power cabling.

Supporting the Cisco IOS IP Lite software image, the WS-C2960XR-24PD-I enables essential Layer 2 switching along with limited Layer 3 routing functionalities such as static routing and RIP, offering flexibility for evolving network architectures without the complexity of full Layer 3 deployment.

Key Features and Benefits

The Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PD-I switch delivers a powerful combination of performance, flexibility, and enterprise-class capabilities, making it a reliable choice for growing network infrastructures.

Designed for small to medium-sized businesses, it offers 24 PoE+ Gigabit Ethernet ports, dual SFP+ uplinks, and essential Layer 2 and Layer 3 features via the IP Lite software. From high-speed data access and simplified device connectivity to advanced power management, security, and network visibility, this switch enables organizations to build resilient, energy-efficient, and easily manageable networks that scale with evolving demands.

• High-Speed Connectivity and Stacking Support

In addition to its PoE+ access ports, the switch includes 2 x 10 Gigabit SFP+ uplink interfaces, allowing high-speed fiber connections to distribution or core layers. These uplinks provide enhanced bandwidth and redundancy, ensuring efficient traffic flow across extended networks.

The WS-C2960XR-24PD-I supports Cisco FlexStack-Plus technology, which allows up to eight switches to be stacked together into a single logical unit, offering up to 80 Gbps of stack bandwidth. This promotes centralized management, simplifies configuration, and improves fault tolerance—critical for organizations prioritizing network uptime and simplified scaling.

• Intelligent Power and Cooling Design

This model includes an internal, field-replaceable AC power supply and uses a front-to-back airflow design, optimizing thermal management and ensuring reliable operation in dense networking environments. It also supports Cisco EnergyWise technology to dynamically monitor and control energy consumption across connected devices.

• Enhanced Security and Management Features

The WS-C2960XR-24PD-I integrates a suite of advanced security features, including 802.1X authentication, DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection (DAI), and IP Source Guard, providing a secure and policy-driven access layer. Additionally, NetFlow-Lite support offers visibility into traffic patterns, enabling proactive network analysis and troubleshooting.

Management is simplified through USB and Ethernet console ports, SNMP support, and compatibility with Cisco Network Assistant and CLI-based configuration, ensuring ease of operation for network administrators.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Why Choose Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PD-I?

The WS-C2960XR-24PD-I is a powerful access layer solution for enterprise networks seeking to integrate PoE+ capabilities, high-speed uplinks, secure access controls, and stackable architecture into one compact switch. It delivers a blend of performance and operational efficiency suited for various deployment scenarios, including branch offices, unified communications, wireless LAN aggregation, and surveillance networks.

With its energy-conscious design, modular scalability, and robust feature set, this switch is an excellent choice for future-ready LAN environments that require both flexibility and reliability.

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

You can also visit the Cisco WS-C2960XR-24TS-I Catalyst , Cisco WS-C2960S-F48TS-L Catalyst , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.