DCS-7170-32CD-R Arista 7170 Series 32x 100 Gigabit QSFP R-f Airflow Switch

Overview of the Arista Switch

The ARISTA DCS-7170-32CD-R is engineered for modern spine, leaf, and aggregation layers where ultra-fast throughput and reliability are critical. Built on the proven 7170 platform, this switch delivers consistent performance for large-scale cloud, enterprise, and service provider environments.

General Information

• Part: DCS-7170-32CD-R
• Brand: Arista 
• Product Type: Switch

Interface Configuration and Connectivity

• Thirty-two QSFP-based 100 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces
• Dedicated Gigabit Ethernet port for management tasks
• RS-232 console access via RJ45 connector
• USB port for local operations and diagnostics

System Architecture and Performance

• Switching fabric capable of up to 6.4 terabits per second
• Forwarding performance reaching 2.4 billion packets per second
• Ultra-low latency starting at approximately 800 nanoseconds
• High-efficiency packet buffering with 20 MB capacity

Processing Power and Memory

• Enterprise-grade x86 CPU architecture
• Standard 16 GB system memory, expandable to 32 GB

Operating System and Network Features

• Support for up to 4096 VLANs
• Consistent EOS feature set across the Arista portfolio
• Designed for scalable, resilient network designs

Cooling Design and Power Configuration

• Back-to-front airflow optimized for rack-level cooling
• Four hot-swappable Fan-7000H-R modules included
• Dual redundant PWR-747AC-BLUE power supplies for high availability

Deployment Use Cases

• High-performance data center fabrics
• Cloud-scale networking environments
• Latency-sensitive applications and workloads
• Enterprise and service provider core networks

Arista 7170 Series 32x 100 Gigabit QSFP R-F Airflow Switch 

The Arista DCS-7170-32CD-R switch represents a high-performance solution engineered for modern data center environments requiring extreme bandwidth, low latency, and advanced programmability. Designed for hyperscale, enterprise, financial trading, and cloud networking deployments, this 32-port 100 Gigabit QSFP platform delivers wire-speed switching, scalable routing, and deep buffering capabilities. Built on Arista’s advanced architecture and powered by EOS, the DCS-7170-32CD-R supports demanding workloads including AI/ML clusters, high-performance computing, storage networks, and ultra-low-latency applications. Its R-F airflow design ensures efficient cooling for hot-aisle containment strategies commonly implemented in modern server racks.

With support for high-density connectivity, this switch enables organizations to consolidate infrastructure while maintaining superior performance and reliability. The compact 1RU form factor maximizes rack efficiency while delivering advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities. Whether deployed as a leaf switch in a spine-leaf topology or integrated into a high-frequency trading infrastructure, the DCS-7170-32CD-R offers the flexibility and power needed to support large-scale, data-intensive operations. The platform integrates programmable pipelines, high-performance forwarding engines, and robust telemetry features, enabling granular network visibility and automation.

High-Density 100GbE Connectivity

Featuring 32 QSFP ports capable of delivering up to 100 Gigabit Ethernet per port, this switch provides massive throughput and efficient network scaling. Each QSFP interface supports multiple breakout configurations, allowing deployment flexibility across 10GbE, 25GbE, 40GbE, 50GbE, and 100GbE speeds. This flexibility allows organizations to transition gradually from legacy infrastructure to modern high-speed networking without costly forklift upgrades.

Data centers benefit from simplified cabling strategies and improved airflow management, while operators gain the ability to connect multiple servers or aggregation switches with minimal hardware overhead. This design reduces operational costs and enhances scalability for expanding infrastructures.

Performance Architecture and Switching Capabilities

The Arista 7170 Series is known for its high-performance switching silicon and advanced forwarding capabilities. The DCS-7170-32CD-R is optimized to deliver consistent performance even under heavy loads, making it ideal for mission-critical applications. With ultra-low latency and deep packet buffering, it excels in environments where speed and reliability are paramount.

Its non-blocking architecture ensures predictable performance across all ports simultaneously. Financial trading systems and latency-sensitive workloads benefit from deterministic packet processing, while large-scale enterprise environments gain robust handling of bursty traffic patterns. The switch’s hardware acceleration capabilities allow advanced features such as VXLAN routing and telemetry without sacrificing throughput.

Ultra-Low Latency Networking

Low latency is critical for applications such as algorithmic trading, HPC workloads, and distributed storage. The DCS-7170-32CD-R delivers minimal processing delays thanks to optimized hardware pipelines and efficient packet forwarding mechanisms. This architecture ensures that time-sensitive data reaches its destination quickly, improving application responsiveness and operational efficiency.

Deep Buffering and Traffic Management

Advanced buffering capabilities enable the switch to handle microbursts and congestion without packet loss. This feature is particularly beneficial in high-performance computing clusters and storage networks where traffic patterns can be unpredictable. Combined with intelligent traffic management algorithms, the platform ensures optimal performance across diverse workloads.

Arista EOS Software and Programmability

The Extensible Operating System (EOS) is a core differentiator for the Arista DCS-7170-32CD-R. Built on a Linux-based architecture, EOS offers stability, modularity, and advanced programmability. Network engineers gain powerful automation capabilities through open APIs, Python scripting, and integration with modern DevOps tools.

EOS provides stateful fault containment, enabling processes to restart independently without impacting the entire system. This design enhances network uptime and simplifies troubleshooting. Additionally, centralized management platforms such as CloudVision provide advanced analytics, configuration automation, and real-time telemetry for proactive network operations.

Automation and Orchestration

Automation is essential for large-scale data center deployments. EOS supports zero-touch provisioning, automated upgrades, and seamless integration with orchestration platforms. Network teams can streamline operations by automating repetitive tasks and enforcing consistent configurations across hundreds or thousands of devices.

Streaming Telemetry and Analytics

Built-in telemetry capabilities enable continuous monitoring of network performance. Real-time analytics allow administrators to identify bottlenecks, optimize traffic flows, and troubleshoot issues proactively. This visibility enhances reliability and reduces mean time to resolution in complex network environments.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The Arista DCS-7170-32CD-R is versatile enough to support a wide range of deployment scenarios. Its high-density design and advanced software features make it suitable for various network roles, including leaf switches, aggregation layers, and specialized application networks.

Spine-Leaf Data Center Architectures

In modern spine-leaf topologies, this switch serves as a high-performance leaf or spine device, enabling east-west traffic optimization and reduced latency between servers. Its support for VXLAN and EVPN facilitates scalable network virtualization and multi-tenant cloud environments.

High-Frequency Trading Networks

Financial trading firms require ultra-low latency and deterministic performance. The DCS-7170-32CD-R delivers precise packet timing and hardware-based acceleration features that meet the stringent requirements of electronic trading platforms.

AI and Machine Learning Clusters

AI workloads demand massive bandwidth and minimal congestion. The switch’s deep buffering and high-speed interfaces make it ideal for connecting GPU clusters and high-performance storage systems, ensuring efficient data exchange across distributed compute environments.

Hardware Design and Reliability

Engineered for reliability and efficiency, the DCS-7170-32CD-R incorporates redundant power supplies and hot-swappable fans. The R-F airflow configuration ensures compatibility with hot aisle/cold aisle containment strategies, promoting optimal thermal performance within dense server racks.

Its robust construction and enterprise-grade components ensure long-term durability in demanding data center environments. The platform is designed to operate continuously under heavy workloads, making it a dependable choice for mission-critical operations.

Energy Efficiency and Cooling

Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in reducing operational costs. Advanced thermal management features help maintain optimal operating temperatures while minimizing power consumption. Intelligent fan control adjusts cooling based on workload demands, ensuring efficient performance without excessive energy use.

Security and Network Segmentation

Modern networks require robust security mechanisms to protect sensitive data and ensure regulatory compliance. The DCS-7170-32CD-R supports a wide range of security features, including access control lists, role-based access control, secure boot processes, and encrypted management interfaces. These features help safeguard infrastructure against unauthorized access and potential threats.

Network segmentation capabilities enable organizations to isolate workloads and maintain strict separation between departments or tenants. VXLAN-based overlays provide scalable segmentation without the limitations of traditional VLAN architectures, improving flexibility and security in multi-tenant environments.

Advanced Threat Mitigation

Integrated security features allow administrators to detect and mitigate suspicious traffic patterns. Combined with external monitoring solutions, the switch contributes to a comprehensive defense-in-depth strategy that protects data center resources from evolving cyber threats.

Scalability and Future-Proof Networking

Scalability is essential for organizations experiencing rapid growth. The DCS-7170-32CD-R provides a future-ready platform capable of supporting increasing traffic volumes and evolving application requirements. High-speed interfaces and flexible software capabilities ensure long-term investment protection.

Modular software features allow new capabilities to be introduced through updates, reducing the need for hardware replacement. The switch’s programmability enables integration with emerging technologies such as intent-based networking and advanced analytics platforms.

Cloud Integration and Hybrid Environments

As organizations adopt hybrid cloud strategies, seamless connectivity between on-premises data centers and cloud platforms becomes essential. The DCS-7170-32CD-R supports secure tunneling protocols and network virtualization technologies that facilitate hybrid cloud deployments, enabling efficient data exchange and workload mobility.

Efficient network management is crucial for maintaining performance and reliability. Arista CloudVision offers centralized control, real-time analytics, and automated provisioning. Network operators gain a unified view of the infrastructure, enabling proactive issue detection and streamlined operations.

The switch supports industry-standard protocols such as SNMP, NetFlow, and sFlow, allowing integration with third-party monitoring solutions. Command-line and web-based management interfaces provide flexibility for administrators with varying operational preferences.

Automated deployment capabilities reduce the time required to configure new hardware. Zero-touch provisioning ensures consistent configurations and eliminates manual errors, enabling rapid scaling of data center infrastructure.

Benefits for Enterprise and Hyperscale Data Centers

Enterprises and hyperscale operators benefit from the switch’s combination of performance, automation, and reliability. Its high-density design allows organizations to scale networks efficiently while minimizing rack space and power consumption. Advanced programmability reduces operational complexity, enabling teams to deploy new services quickly and adapt to changing business needs.

The DCS-7170-32CD-R also enhances operational efficiency through centralized management and analytics. Real-time monitoring provides actionable insights into network behavior, enabling proactive maintenance and improved service delivery. By supporting both legacy and modern networking protocols, the platform ensures compatibility with existing infrastructure while enabling gradual upgrades.