Cisco WS-C3850-48XS-S Catalyst

Cisco WS-C3850-48XS-S Switch – High-Performance 10G SFP+ Enterprise Aggregation Switch

The Cisco WS-C3850-48XS-S is a next-generation, enterprise-class stackable Layer 3 switch that delivers high-density 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and integrated wireless controller capabilities. As part of the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series, this switch is engineered to meet the demands of modern networks by combining scalability, resiliency, and intelligent services in a compact and flexible platform.

Key Features and Benefits

The Cisco WS-C3850-48XS-S offers a powerful combination of high-performance switching, advanced integration, and enterprise-grade reliability. With 48 dedicated 10G SFP+ ports, it delivers exceptional bandwidth and scalability for aggregation and core network layers. One of its key advantages is the built-in wireless controller, which enables unified management of both wired and wireless networks through a single platform—simplifying operations and reducing infrastructure complexity. The switch supports Cisco StackWise-480 technology, allowing multiple units to operate as a single logical device with up to 480 Gbps of stack throughput. It runs on Cisco IOS XE with an IP Base feature set, which is upgradeable to IP Services for advanced routing and security capabilities. Designed for mission-critical environments, it also supports redundant power supplies and hot-swappable fans, ensuring continuous uptime. Overall, the WS-C3850-48XS-S is an ideal solution for organizations seeking performance, flexibility, and long-term investment protection in their network infrastructure.

     1. Unmatched 10G Port Density and Stackable Architecture

Equipped with 48 x 10Gbps SFP+ ports, the WS-C3850-48XS-S provides unmatched port density for aggregation or core layers in large enterprise networks, data centers, or high-performance computing environments. The switch supports Cisco StackWise-480 technology, allowing up to 480 Gbps of stack throughput and enabling seamless scaling and simplified management across up to nine switches in a stack.

     2. Integrated Wireless LAN Controller

A standout feature of the WS-C3850-48XS-S is its built-in wireless controller, capable of managing up to 100 access points and 2,000 wireless clients per switch (and up to 3,600 APs in a stack), making it a fully converged wired and wireless platform. This integration allows IT teams to deploy and manage wired and wireless networks through a single infrastructure and policy plane, reducing operational complexity and enhancing overall network visibility.

     3. Upgradeable Cisco IOS XE Software with IP Base Image

The WS-C3850-48XS-S ships with Cisco IOS XE and the IP Base software feature set, which provides essential Layer 3 routing protocols like static routing and RIP. Customers can upgrade to more advanced licenses, such as IP Services, to unlock features like OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and advanced security capabilities. This licensing flexibility ensures the switch can adapt to evolving network requirements.

     4. Advanced Security and QoS

With support for advanced QoS, Flexible NetFlow, and Cisco TrustSec, the WS-C3850-48XS-S helps organizations secure their data, enforce network segmentation, and maintain high-performance traffic prioritization. These features are essential for managing critical business applications, voice and video services, and high-volume data transfers.

     5. Enterprise-Grade Performance and Reliability

Designed for redundancy and nonstop operation, the switch includes dual redundant power supply support, hot-swappable fans, and a highly resilient hardware architecture. Coupled with modular uplink options and field-replaceable components, the WS-C3850-48XS-S ensures maximum uptime and simplified maintenance in mission-critical environments.

Key Technical Specifications

Why Choose Cisco WS-C3850-48XS-S?

• High Port Density: 48 dedicated 10G SFP+ ports for maximum throughput

• Converged Infrastructure: Unified platform for wired and wireless management

• Scalable and Stackable: Cisco StackWise-480 support for simplified scaling

• Upgradeable Licensing: Grow from basic IP Base to full IP Services features

• Enterprise-Class Resiliency: Redundant power and fan modules ensure uptime

• Future-Ready: Ideal for next-gen workloads, cloud access, and high-speed aggregation

Ideal Use Cases

• Enterprise LAN aggregation or core switching

• Unified wired and wireless campus networks

• Data center edge switching with high-speed interconnects

• High-performance environments requiring extensive bandwidth and scalability

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

You can also visit the Cisco WS-C4900M Catalyst , Cisco WS-C3850-12XS-E Catalyst , Catalyst Switches pages if you wish.