Cisco WS-C3650-48FQ-E Catalyst

Cisco WS-C3650-48FQ-E Catalyst – Advanced Enterprise Switch

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C3650-48FQ-E is a cutting-edge, enterprise-grade access layer switch meticulously designed to address the dynamic and ever-growing requirements of modern business networks. As a pivotal member of the Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series, this switch seamlessly blends powerful Layer 2 switching with advanced Layer 3 routing capabilities, offering a comprehensive networking solution that supports a wide range of enterprise applications.

Its integration of Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) technology enables the delivery of both data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable to connected devices, such as IP phones, wireless access points, security cameras, and other PoE-enabled equipment. This feature not only simplifies network infrastructure by reducing the need for separate power supplies and cabling but also promotes energy efficiency and cleaner installations, which are critical in dense enterprise environments.

Built to provide exceptional scalability, the WS-C3650-48FQ-E supports high-density connectivity with 48 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports and four 10-Gigabit SFP+ uplinks, facilitating seamless integration with high-speed core networks or data centers.

Its robust Layer 3 IP Services feature set includes advanced routing protocols like OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and RIP, empowering organizations to optimize traffic flow, enhance network segmentation, and increase overall operational efficiency. Furthermore, the switch’s stackable architecture—enabled by Cisco’s innovative StackWise technology—allows multiple WS-C3650 units to be interconnected and managed as a single logical device, offering simplified administration, higher availability, and streamlined network expansion.

The WS-C3650-48FQ-E also embodies Cisco’s commitment to security and reliability. It includes comprehensive security features such as IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, dynamic ARP inspection, IP source guard, and robust access control lists (ACLs) to safeguard sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access. Designed with redundancy in mind, it supports dual power supplies to ensure uninterrupted network operation, which is vital for mission-critical business applications.

In summary, the Cisco WS-C3650-48FQ-E Catalyst provides a versatile, future-proof platform for enterprises aiming to build resilient, efficient, and secure access layer networks capable of supporting converged applications including voice, video, and wireless.

Its blend of high performance, scalability, and advanced features make it an ideal choice for enterprise campuses, branch offices, and any environment where network demands continue to grow in complexity and scale.

Key Features and Benefits

The Cisco WS-C3650-48FQ-E  Catalyst is engineered to meet the complex demands of today’s enterprise networks, where scalability, reliability, and security are paramount. Combining advanced hardware components with Cisco’s proven IOS XE software, this switch delivers a seamless integration of Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, supporting both traditional and modern converged applications.

With robust Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) support, high-speed uplinks, and intelligent stacking technology, the WS-C3650-48FQ-E simplifies network design while enhancing performance and flexibility.

Designed for environments ranging from enterprise campuses to branch offices, it provides a scalable platform that can grow alongside your business needs while maintaining high availability and strong security controls. Below are some of the key features that make this switch a versatile and future-proof solution for access layer networking.

• 48 PoE+ Enabled Ethernet Ports

The WS-C3650-48FQ-E features 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports compliant with IEEE 802.3at Power over Ethernet Plus standards. These ports supply up to 30 watts per port, powering connected devices like IP phones, wireless access points, security cameras, and other PoE-enabled devices directly through the Ethernet cable. This simplifies network deployment, reduces installation costs, and eliminates the need for separate power cabling.

• Four 10-Gigabit SFP+ Uplink Ports

For seamless integration into high-speed enterprise backbones, the switch provides four 10-Gigabit Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus (SFP+) uplink ports. These uplinks enable high-throughput connections to core switches or data centers, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications and data flows without bottlenecks.

• Advanced IP Services with Layer 3 Routing

Running Cisco’s IP Services software image, the WS-C3650-48FQ-E supports comprehensive Layer 3 routing protocols such as OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and RIP. This allows the switch to perform dynamic routing and traffic optimization, facilitating efficient network segmentation, redundancy, and improved data flow management across large-scale networks.

• Cisco StackWise Technology

The switch supports Cisco StackWise technology, enabling up to nine WS-C3650 switches to be interconnected via a high-speed stack cable to operate as a single logical unit. This stacking capability enhances network scalability, simplifies management by consolidating configuration and monitoring, and improves fault tolerance with rapid failover and load balancing.

• Enhanced Security Features

Security is integral to the WS-C3650-48FQ-E, which includes features like IEEE 802.1X port-based access control, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), IP Source Guard, and advanced ACLs (Access Control Lists). These mechanisms help prevent unauthorized access, mitigate threats, and ensure compliance with enterprise security policies.

• Reliability and Power Efficiency

The switch supports redundant power supplies to maximize uptime and resilience in critical environments. Additionally, Cisco EnergyWise technology reduces energy consumption by intelligently managing power usage across ports and modules without compromising performance.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Why Choose Cisco WS-C3650-48FQ-E?

The WS-C3650-48FQ-E is designed to empower enterprises with a scalable and future-proof access layer solution. Its combination of PoE+ capability, robust Layer 3 routing, and high-speed uplinks supports a broad range of converged applications, including voice, video, and wireless, within a unified infrastructure. The StackWise stacking technology provides operational simplicity and high availability, essential for minimizing downtime in mission-critical environments.

Furthermore, Cisco’s IOS XE software platform ensures continuous innovation, improved automation, and simplified management through programmability and advanced analytics, helping network administrators maintain optimal performance and security with minimal effort.

Ideal Applications

1. Enterprise access layer in campus networks

2. High-density PoE deployments for IP telephony and wireless access

3. Video surveillance and security infrastructure

4. Scalable network aggregation for data centers and distribution layers

5. Organizations requiring advanced routing and security at the access layer

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

You can also visit the Cisco WS-C3750E-24TD-E Catalyst , Cisco WS-C3650-24TS-S Catalyst , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.