DCS-7280CR-48-F Arista 48 Port 100GBE QSFP100 QSFP+ Switch

The Arista DCS-7280CR-48-F Gigabit Ethernet Switch

The Arista DCS-7280CR-48-F is a high-performance, low-latency 48-port 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100GBE) switch designed for modern data centers and high-demand network environments. Equipped with QSFP100 and QSFP+ ports, this switch delivers flexible connectivity options, enabling scalable and high-speed network architectures. The switch's efficient airflow design ensures optimal cooling, making it suitable for dense rack deployments.

As part of Arista's 7280 Series, this switch offers robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, advanced automation features, and comprehensive telemetry for network monitoring. Its combination of port density, high throughput, and software-driven functionality makes it ideal for enterprise data centers, cloud service providers, and large-scale HPC (High-Performance Computing) environments.

Key Features of the Arista DCS-7280CR-48-F Switch

48-Port High-Speed QSFP100 and QSFP+ Connectivity

The switch is equipped with 48 QSFP100 ports that provide 100Gbps connectivity, supporting both QSFP28 and QSFP+ modules. These ports can be configured for breakout functionality, allowing multiple 25GbE or 50GbE links per port, which provides flexible connectivity options depending on network requirements. This capability makes the DCS-7280CR-48-F an ideal solution for networks demanding high bandwidth and low latency.

Advanced Airflow Design for Optimal Cooling

Designed with front-to-back airflow, the DCS-7280CR-48-F ensures consistent thermal performance even in high-density environments. Its airflow management reduces hotspots and maintains a stable operating temperature, which is critical for minimizing network downtime and extending hardware lifespan. Efficient airflow design also allows for more predictable power and cooling requirements in large-scale deployments.

High-Performance Layer 2 and Layer 3 Switching

The Arista DCS-7280CR-48-F supports comprehensive Layer 2 features, including VLANs, link aggregation (LACP), and spanning tree protocols. On Layer 3, it offers static and dynamic routing, BGP, OSPF, and multicast routing capabilities. The combination of L2 and L3 functionality enables seamless integration into both traditional and modern network architectures, supporting complex routing scenarios in data centers and campus networks.

Low Latency for High-Speed Environments

With hardware-optimized forwarding and minimal processing overhead, the DCS-7280CR-48-F provides extremely low latency switching. This feature is essential for high-frequency trading, HPC clusters, and real-time applications that rely on rapid data transfer without delays. The switch is designed to handle large volumes of data with consistent performance, even under heavy load conditions.

Arista EOS (Extensible Operating System)

The switch runs on Arista EOS, a Linux-based operating system designed for scalability, reliability, and programmability. EOS provides a single-image software platform across Arista’s product line, allowing network administrators to automate provisioning, configuration, and network monitoring. EOS features a modular architecture that ensures uninterrupted software updates without affecting network performance.

Programmability

EOS supports various automation tools such as Python scripting, eAPI (Extensible API), and Ansible modules. These features enable administrators to automate repetitive tasks, deploy network-wide configurations, and integrate with third-party network management systems. Automation reduces operational overhead, minimizes human errors, and accelerates network deployments. Arista EOS provides advanced telemetry capabilities, including streaming analytics and real-time monitoring of network traffic. Using tools such as CloudVision and EOS Telemetry, administrators can gather detailed insights into network performance, detect anomalies, and optimize resource allocation. This level of visibility ensures proactive network management and improved service reliability.

Enhanced Security Features

The DCS-7280CR-48-F incorporates robust security features to protect critical data and prevent unauthorized access. Features such as MACsec encryption, ACLs (Access Control Lists), and RADIUS/TACACS+ authentication ensure secure connectivity and control over network access. Combined with EOS’s programmable security policies, organizations can enforce consistent security measures across all switches in the network.

Flexible QSFP Port Configurations

Each QSFP100 port on the DCS-7280CR-48-F supports breakout options that allow a single 100GbE port to be split into four 25GbE ports or two 50GbE ports. This flexibility provides efficient utilization of available bandwidth, especially in environments with mixed-speed devices. Network administrators can tailor port configurations to match application requirements without compromising performance.

Support for Direct Attach and Optical Modules

The switch is compatible with both QSFP direct attach copper (DAC) cables and optical transceivers. DAC cables offer a cost-effective, short-range connectivity solution for rack-to-rack connections, while optical modules provide long-distance, high-speed links for inter-data center connections. This versatility makes the DCS-7280CR-48-F suitable for a variety of deployment scenarios.

High-Density Connectivity

With 48 high-speed ports in a compact 1RU form factor, the DCS-7280CR-48-F delivers high-density connectivity for modern data center racks. This high port density reduces the need for multiple switches, simplifies cabling, and lowers overall network complexity. The compact design also ensures efficient use of rack space, power, and cooling resources.

Performance Metrics and Scalability

Non-Blocking Architecture

The switch features a non-blocking architecture, ensuring that all ports can operate at full line rate simultaneously without packet loss. This capability is critical for environments where consistent throughput is required, such as in cloud computing, storage networking, and financial services. Non-blocking performance ensures predictable behavior under peak network loads.

Scalability for Growing Networks

Arista’s DCS-7280CR-48-F is designed for scalability, allowing organizations to expand their network infrastructure without disruption. By supporting VXLAN, MLAG, and other virtualization technologies, the switch can integrate seamlessly into large-scale, multi-tenant networks. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for growing enterprises and service providers who require future-proof networking solutions.

High Availability and Redundancy

To ensure network uptime, the DCS-7280CR-48-F supports redundant power supplies and field-replaceable fans. Combined with EOS’s software resiliency, the switch provides high availability and minimal downtime in mission-critical applications. Redundant hardware components reduce the risk of service interruptions and provide peace of mind for network administrators.

Support for Large Routing Tables

The switch can accommodate large Layer 2 and Layer 3 tables, allowing it to handle thousands of MAC addresses, IP routes, and VLANs efficiently. This capability is essential in complex network environments with numerous devices and multiple subnets. Administrators can scale the network without worrying about routing table limitations or degraded performance.

Advanced Network Features

VXLAN and Network Virtualization

The DCS-7280CR-48-F supports VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN), enabling network virtualization for multi-tenant environments. VXLAN allows for the creation of overlay networks, extending Layer 2 connectivity over Layer 3 infrastructure. This capability is especially beneficial for cloud data centers, software-defined networks (SDNs), and large enterprise networks.

MLAG for Multi-Chassis Connectivity

Multi-Chassis Link Aggregation (MLAG) allows the DCS-7280CR-48-F to connect to multiple switches simultaneously, providing redundancy and load balancing. MLAG ensures uninterrupted connectivity even if one switch fails, making it ideal for high-availability network designs. By combining MLAG with VXLAN, administrators can achieve flexible, resilient, and scalable network architectures.

Quality of Service (QoS) and Traffic Management

The switch offers advanced QoS capabilities, allowing administrators to prioritize critical applications and manage bandwidth efficiently. Features such as traffic shaping, policing, and scheduling ensure that latency-sensitive applications receive the necessary network resources. QoS is particularly important in environments with mixed workloads, including storage, computing, and real-time communication.

Network Accessories

In addition to QSFP modules, the DCS-7280CR-48-F is compatible with power supply units, fan trays, and rack-mount kits designed for 1RU switches. Proper selection of compatible accessories ensures optimal performance, reliability, and ease of maintenance in data center deployments.

Power and Cooling Accessories

The switch supports redundant, hot-swappable power supplies, ensuring uninterrupted operation during maintenance or power failures. Field-replaceable fans maintain proper airflow and thermal performance, reducing the risk of overheating in high-density rack configurations. These accessories are critical for maximizing uptime and extending the hardware lifespan.

Rack-Mounting Solutions

The 1RU form factor allows the switch to fit into standard 19-inch racks with minimal space usage. Optional rack rails and mounting kits simplify installation and provide stability in dense data center racks. Efficient rack-mounting contributes to better airflow, easier cable management, and lower operational costs.

Use Cases for the Arista DCS-7280CR-48-F

Enterprise Data Centers

The DCS-7280CR-48-F is ideal for enterprise data centers requiring high-speed, low-latency connectivity. Its combination of Layer 2/3 features, VXLAN support, and automation capabilities makes it suitable for modern data center networks that prioritize scalability, reliability, and operational efficiency. Enterprises can leverage its programmability to streamline network management and reduce operational complexity.

Cloud Service Providers

Cloud providers benefit from the switch's dense 100GbE port configuration, low latency, and high availability. Multi-tenant networks can leverage VXLAN, MLAG, and QoS features to ensure fair resource allocation, redundancy, and seamless workload migration. The switch’s telemetry capabilities also provide insights into network utilization and performance for better capacity planning.

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

HPC environments demand ultra-low latency and high throughput for large-scale computations. The DCS-7280CR-48-F’s non-blocking architecture and hardware-optimized forwarding make it a perfect fit for HPC clusters. Its advanced congestion management and QoS features ensure that computational nodes communicate efficiently without packet loss or latency spikes.

Reliability and Redundancy

The switch’s hardware is designed for reliability, featuring redundant power supplies, hot-swappable fans, and robust chassis construction. These features minimize downtime and provide uninterrupted network service in critical environments. Combined with EOS software resiliency, the DCS-7280CR-48-F offers enterprise-grade reliability for demanding networks.