Cisco WS-C3850-24XS-S – 24-Port 10G SFP+ Fiber Stackable Switch with DNA Integration
The Cisco WS-C3850-24XS-S is a next-generation enterprise-grade switch equipped with 24 SFP+ 10 Gigabit Ethernet fiber ports. As part of Cisco’s Catalyst 3850 Series, this switch is designed to deliver high-bandwidth, stackable fiber connectivity for enterprise distribution layers and data centers. With full support for Cisco StackWise-480 stacking technology, advanced Layer 3 features via Cisco IOS XE, and integration with Cisco DNA Center, the 24XS-S model enables scalable, high-performance networking with centralized automation and intelligent monitoring.
High-Density 10G Fiber for Enterprise Environments
At its core, the WS-C3850-24XS-S switch offers 24 SFP+ ports that each support 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds. This makes it an ideal solution for networks requiring ultra-fast, long-distance fiber connectivity such as multi-building campuses, modern office complexes, large universities, or data centers. Each SFP+ port is compatible with a wide range of Cisco transceivers, allowing flexible deployment using SR (short range), LR (long range), or DWDM optics depending on environmental demands.
By utilizing fiber instead of copper, organizations benefit from EMI (electromagnetic interference) resistance, extended reach (up to 10km or more per link), and increased throughput consistency—particularly important in environments handling large amounts of voice, video, or cloud-based traffic.
Enterprise-Class StackWise-480 Architecture
This model supports Cisco’s powerful StackWise-480 stacking architecture, allowing up to 9 switches to be combined into a single logical unit. This technology delivers up to 480 Gbps of stack bandwidth, enabling distributed network designs that retain centralized manageability. For organizations that need both scalability and operational simplicity, stacking provides the perfect solution. Adding new switches into the stack doesn’t require reconfiguration from scratch, and upgrades can be done with minimal downtime using Cisco’s rolling upgrade capabilities.
Advanced Software Features via Cisco IOS XE
The switch runs on the Cisco IOS XE operating system, which provides a modular, highly secure, and flexible software base for enterprise networking. IOS XE supports Layer 2 switching, basic Layer 3 routing (such as static routing, OSPF, and RIP), extensive VLAN segmentation, QoS (Quality of Service), and enhanced multicast and policy control.
Its software package includes security tools like 802.1X port-based access control, MACsec encryption for data confidentiality, DHCP snooping, and IP Source Guard. These are vital for protecting access-layer devices and preventing man-in-the-middle or spoofing attacks in enterprise environments.
Flexible NetFlow for Traffic Visibility
Like all Catalyst 3850 models, the WS-C3850-24XS-S supports Flexible NetFlow, Cisco’s advanced network telemetry and traffic monitoring tool. Flexible NetFlow enables detailed analysis of application behavior, bandwidth usage per user, and visibility across wired and wireless segments. Whether used for troubleshooting, capacity planning, or policy enforcement, NetFlow provides the deep insights network administrators need to maintain performance and ensure compliance.
Cisco DNA Center Integration for Intelligent Automation
The WS-C3850-24XS-S supports integration with Cisco DNA Center, Cisco’s intent-based network controller. Through DNA Center, the switch becomes part of an automated, self-healing, and policy-driven infrastructure. DNA provides real-time analytics, network assurance, device onboarding automation, and software-defined segmentation.
From a single dashboard, network teams can visualize all network devices, receive proactive alerts, and perform configuration changes across multiple sites. This level of centralized control reduces human error, improves operational agility, and lowers overall network TCO (Total Cost of Ownership).
Management via CLI and GUI
This switch is designed with both experienced engineers and IT generalists in mind. It offers a traditional command-line interface (CLI) for detailed control, scripting, and automation, as well as a modern web-based GUI for easier visual configuration. Whether you’re managing a standalone unit or a full stack, both methods provide full access to diagnostics, firmware updates, VLAN setup, port monitoring, and more.
Hardware Specifications and Reliability Features
- Ports: 24 x 10G SFP+ fiber ports
- Stacking: StackWise-480, up to 9 switches in a stack
- Network Module Slot: 1 x modular slot for uplinks or expansion
- Power Supply: Redundant power supply slot for failover protection
- Cooling: Intelligent fan system with front-to-back airflow
- Memory: 4 GB DRAM + 2 GB Flash memory
- Dimensions: 4.45 x 44.5 x 45 cm (H x W x D)
- Weight: Approximately 5.9 kg
Its compact 1U rack-mountable design makes it suitable for space-constrained data center racks, while dual-redundant power inputs ensure operational continuity even in the event of hardware failure. Cisco’s intelligent fan cooling system also adapts dynamically to temperature, minimizing noise and extending component life.
Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases
The WS-C3850-24XS-S is ideal for enterprise deployments that need:
- Data center edge connectivity using 10G fiber for high-bandwidth server uplinks
- Distribution layer aggregation with stacked switches in large enterprise or campus networks
- Fiber-based office floors where EMI resistance and centralized wireless control are needed
- Campus-wide deployments with centralized DNA-based management
Its balance of port density, software features, and management flexibility makes it equally suited for large IT departments, MSPs, and enterprise networks scaling beyond traditional copper-based infrastructure.
Why Cisco WS-C3850-24XS-S?
Choosing the Cisco WS-C3850-24XS-S 24-Port SFP+ Fiber Switch means investing in a future-ready platform that offers unmatched scalability, intelligent network visibility, and robust security—all in one device. Whether your enterprise is in UAE, GCC, or beyond, this switch is built to support hybrid cloud environments, remote work scalability, and IoT-ready infrastructure with ease.
It bridges the performance gap between access and aggregation layers while providing intelligent automation through DNA and powerful analytics through NetFlow. From security to performance, from manageability to stackability—WS-C3850-24XS-S delivers on every front.
For full specifications and official Cisco documentation, visit the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series Datasheet.
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