Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S Catalyst

Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S Catalyst Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S Catalyst Switch is a next-generation enterprise-class switch from Cisco’s 3560-CX Series, engineered to deliver quiet, compact, and highly secure network connectivity. Designed for space-constrained environments such as retail stores, open-plan offices, hospitality settings, and classrooms, this switch supports Layer 2 and Layer 3 Lite features, enabling flexible and efficient deployment in modern digital workplaces.

Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and branch offices, the WS-C3560CX-12TC-S combines low power consumption, PoE pass-through support, and advanced security with a fanless, zero-noise design, making it perfect for environments where both performance and silence are critical.

Key Features and Benefits

The Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S Catalyst Switch is a next-generation, enterprise-class compact switch from Cisco’s renowned 3560-CX Series, purpose-built to provide secure, reliable, and near-silent network connectivity in modern IT environments. As organizations increasingly adopt open office layouts, distributed workspaces, and smart infrastructure, the need for compact and low-noise switching solutions has become critical.

The 3560CX-12TC-S addresses these requirements with its fanless, energy-efficient architecture, delivering powerful performance in a space-saving form factor that can be deployed virtually anywhere—under desks, on walls, or in confined wiring closets.

This model is ideal for space-constrained deployments in diverse environments such as retail stores, classrooms, hotel rooms, healthcare facilities, and branch offices, where physical space, heat, and noise constraints often prevent the use of traditional rack-mounted switches. Despite its compact size, it offers advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 Lite functionality, supporting critical protocols such as VLANs, RIP, static routing, and OSPF for routed access, which are essential for optimizing traffic flow and improving network efficiency in distributed topologies.

The WS-C3560CX-12TC-S is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), remote offices, and IoT-rich environments that demand both operational flexibility and robust network control. It combines low power consumption, PoE pass-through capabilities, and comprehensive security features such as 802.1X access control and dynamic ARP inspection, ensuring that your edge network infrastructure remains not only energy-efficient but also fully protected against unauthorized access and data breaches.

By integrating enterprise-grade switching capabilities, whisper-quiet operation, and intelligent power management, the Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S empowers organizations to extend wired connectivity closer to end-users and devices—without compromising on performance, scalability, or security. Whether deployed on desktops, under counters, or in remote corners of a facility, it offers the same trusted Cisco reliability and IOS software consistency found in larger core switches.

• 12-Port Versatile Connectivity

Equipped with 8 x 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports, 2 combo uplink ports (SFP/RJ-45), and 2 dedicated SFP uplinks, this model supports mixed copper and fiber connections, offering the flexibility to adapt to a wide range of deployment scenarios.

• Layer 3 Lite Routing Capabilities

Supports static routing, IPv4/IPv6, RIP, and OSPF for routed access, enabling traffic optimization at the access layer and reducing dependency on upstream routers for inter-VLAN routing.

• PoE Pass-Through Functionality

While the switch itself does not provide standard PoE, it includes PoE pass-through, allowing it to be powered via upstream PoE switches and forward power to connected PoE-powered devices like IP phones or wireless APs—ideal for simplifying installation where no power outlets are available.

• Completely Fanless Design

With no moving parts, the WS-C3560CX-12TC-S delivers silent operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments such as healthcare facilities and executive offices.

• Comprehensive Security Controls

Integrated with 802.1X authentication, DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, and IP Source Guard, the switch protects the network from unauthorized access and spoofing attacks, ensuring secure access at the edge.

• Energy-Efficient and Compact

Compliant with Cisco EnergyWise™ and Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) standards, this compact switch (1RU form factor) helps reduce operational costs while maintaining enterprise-grade reliability and performance.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Why Choose Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S?

The Cisco WS-C3560CX-12TC-S stands out as an ideal access switch for environments that require enterprise performance without sacrificing space or sound control. With PoE pass-through capabilities, silent operation, and compact form factor, it empowers smart office setups and plug-and-play installations in areas with limited infrastructure.

Combined with Cisco’s proven IOS software, robust security protocols, and integrated management options, the switch offers a streamlined and cost-effective solution for supporting IP-based applications such as VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IoT devices.

Ideal Applications

1. Small business and branch office networks
2. Retail environments and hospitality suites
3. IP-based surveillance and wireless APs
4. Education and healthcare deployments
5. Locations requiring silent, fanless network switches

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

You can also visit the Cisco WS-C3560G-24TS-E Catalyst , Cisco WS-C3560C-12PC-S Catalyst , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.