C9500-12Q-E Cisco Catalyst 9500 12 Ports Ethernet Switch

Cisco C9500-12Q-E Catalyst 9500 12-Port Managed Switch

The Cisco C9500-12Q-E Catalyst 9500 Series is a high-performance, stackable Layer 3 switch designed for modern enterprise networks. Engineered to deliver unmatched speed, reliability, and scalability, this 12-port 40 Gigabit Ethernet switch provides advanced routing and switching capabilities suitable for data centers and large-scale campus networks.

General Specifications and Manufacturer Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: C9500-12Q-E
• Device Type: 12-Port L3 Managed Stackable Switch

Form Factor and Technical Design

• Enclosure Type: Rack-mountable 1U chassis
• Network Subtype: 40 Gigabit Ethernet
• Ports: 12 × 40G QSFP ports for high-speed connectivity

Performance Metrics

• Switching Capacity (Full Duplex): 480 Gbps
• Forwarding Rate: 720 Mpps (Million packets per second)

Routing and Capacity Features

• Indirect IPv4 Routes: 64,000
• Host IPv4 Routes: 32,000
• Indirect IPv6 Routes: 32,000
• Host IPv6 Routes: 16,000
• Multicast Scale: 48,000 entries
• Quality of Service ACL Scale: 18,000
• Security ACL Scale: 18,000
• Flow Entries (FnF): 512,000
• VLAN IDs: 4,000
• Switched Virtual Interfaces (SVIs): 4,000

Expansion and Connectivity Options

• 12 × 40G QSFP Ethernet interfaces for high-speed network integration

Power and Redundancy Features

• Power Supply Type: Internal, hot-plug capable
• Installed Quantity: 2 units installed (supports up to 2)
• Power Redundancy: Optional for continuous operation
• Voltage Requirement: AC 120/230 V, 50-60 Hz

Key Features and Benefits

• High-performance Layer 3 switching and routing for enterprise and campus networks
• Advanced QoS, ACL, and security capabilities to manage traffic efficiently
• Stackable design enables scalable network expansion with minimal complexity
• Robust hardware and redundant power options for mission-critical operations
• Future-proof connectivity with 40 Gigabit Ethernet QSFP ports

Cisco C9500-12Q-E Catalyst 9500 Series

The Cisco C9500-12Q-E Catalyst 9500 12 Ports Manageable Switch is a high-performance network device designed for enterprise-grade environments. It delivers advanced capabilities for modern networks, supporting high-speed connectivity, robust security features, and extensive management options. This switch is a key component in the Catalyst 9500 series, providing seamless integration with Cisco's broader network ecosystem and delivering scalable solutions for growing enterprise demands.

High-Performance Network Connectivity

The C9500-12Q-E switch is equipped with twelve high-speed ports capable of supporting 40 Gigabit Ethernet connections. These ports ensure reliable and low-latency data transfer, enabling enterprises to manage intensive workloads and high-bandwidth applications with ease. Its architecture is optimized for performance, allowing simultaneous handling of multiple data streams without compromising network stability.

Advanced Layer 3 Routing Capabilities

This switch supports comprehensive Layer 3 routing protocols, allowing for dynamic routing and efficient traffic management across complex networks. It includes support for OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and other advanced routing protocols, enabling seamless integration into enterprise routing topologies. With these capabilities, the C9500-12Q-E ensures optimal path selection and minimizes network congestion for mission-critical applications.

Scalable Architecture for Enterprise Networks

The Catalyst 9500 series is designed with scalability in mind, and the C9500-12Q-E is no exception. Its modular design allows for future expansion, ensuring that enterprises can accommodate growth without replacing existing infrastructure. The switch also provides high-density connectivity, allowing organizations to consolidate multiple network segments into a single, manageable device while maintaining peak performance.

Enhanced Security Features

Security is a core focus of the Cisco C9500-12Q-E switch. It incorporates advanced threat protection mechanisms, including Cisco's TrustSec technology, which offers robust role-based access control. The switch also supports Secure Boot, enabling verification of system software integrity during startup. Furthermore, its hardware-based encryption capabilities ensure that sensitive data remains secure during transmission, making it suitable for environments with strict compliance requirements.

Comprehensive Network Management

Administrators benefit from extensive network management capabilities provided by the C9500-12Q-E. Cisco DNA Center integration allows for centralized management, automation of routine tasks, and simplified monitoring of network performance. The switch also supports Cisco IOS XE software, which offers a familiar command-line interface as well as programmable automation tools for advanced network configuration and maintenance.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Designed with energy efficiency in mind, the C9500-12Q-E Catalyst switch minimizes power consumption while maintaining high performance. Its intelligent cooling systems and low-power components contribute to reduced operational costs and support environmental sustainability initiatives. Enterprises can deploy this switch knowing that it aligns with energy-conscious IT strategies without sacrificing connectivity or performance.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

The C9500-12Q-E is fully compatible with other Cisco products, including the broader Catalyst 9000 family and Cisco SD-Access solutions. This integration provides a unified approach to network management, enabling seamless deployment of software-defined networking features and simplified policy enforcement across the enterprise network. Organizations can leverage existing Cisco infrastructure to maximize efficiency and reduce operational complexity.

Reliability and Resiliency

Reliability is a critical consideration in enterprise networks, and the C9500-12Q-E switch excels in delivering continuous availability. Redundant power supplies and advanced failover mechanisms ensure uninterrupted network operation. The switch’s hardware and software architecture are designed to prevent single points of failure, providing enterprises with a resilient and dependable networking foundation for critical business applications.

Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

This manageable switch is ideal for a variety of deployment scenarios, including core network aggregation, data center top-of-rack connections, and high-performance access layers in campus environments. Its 40G uplinks and Layer 3 capabilities make it suitable for large-scale data centers, high-density enterprise environments, and organizations requiring secure, high-speed interconnectivity. With flexible deployment options, the C9500-12Q-E adapts to evolving network requirements.

Future-Proof Networking Technology

As organizations embrace digital transformation, the C9500-12Q-E Catalyst switch provides a foundation for future-proof networking. Its high-speed ports, modular capabilities, and advanced software-defined features ensure compatibility with emerging technologies and evolving enterprise requirements. Investing in the C9500-12Q-E allows organizations to maintain a competitive edge while supporting the growing demands of cloud, IoT, and AI-driven workloads.