C9500-24X-E Cisco Layer 3 Switch with 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ Ports

Cisco C9500-24X-E 24-Port Managed Switch 

The Cisco C9500-24X-E is a high-performance Layer 3 managed switch designed for enterprise networks, offering 24 ports in a compact 1U rack-mountable form factor. Ideal for data centers and campus environments, this switch delivers advanced networking capabilities, reliability, and high throughput for modern network demands.

Key Features of Cisco C9500-24X-E

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model Number: C9500-24X-E
• Device Type: Managed Layer 3 Switch
• Rack-mountable 1U design for space-efficient deployment
• High switching capacity and forwarding rate for optimal network performance

Port and Interfaces

• 16 x 10GBASE-T RJ-45 ports for copper connections
• 8 x 10GBASE-X SFP+ ports for fiber connectivity
• Supports both standard and high-speed uplinks for flexible network design

Performance Specifications

• Switching Capacity: Up to 480 Gbps (full duplex)
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 360 million packets per second (Mpps)
• MAC Address Table: 64k entries for large-scale network management
• Jumbo Frame Support: Up to 9198 bytes for enhanced data transfer efficiency

Routing and Network Protocols

• Dynamic Routing: OSPF, RIP-1, RIP-2, RIPng
• Multicast Routing: PIM-SM, PIM-SSM, IGMP
• Redundancy and Resiliency: VRRP, Policy-Based Routing (PBR)

Power and Reliability

• Internal hot-swappable power supply
• Installed Quantity: 2, Maximum Supported: 2
• Power Redundancy: Yes
• Power Rating: 950 Watts
• Input Voltage: AC 120/230 V (50–60 Hz)

Physical and Environmental Specifications

• Form Factor: 1U Rack-mountable switch
• Compact design suitable for enterprise racks and data center environments
• Efficient cooling and energy management for high-density deployments

Cisco C9500-24X-E Layer 3 Switch 

The Cisco C9500-24X-E is a high-performance Layer 3 switch designed to meet the demanding needs of enterprise networks. This 1U rack-mountable switch delivers 24 high-speed 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports, offering exceptional throughput and low latency for data-intensive applications. As part of the Catalyst 9500 series, it provides advanced network automation, security features, and reliable scalability, making it an ideal choice for core and aggregation layers in modern IT infrastructures.

Advanced Layer 3 Capabilities

The C9500-24X-E switch is engineered to support complex routing protocols, including OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and RIP. Its Layer 3 functionality ensures seamless communication between VLANs and subnets, enabling efficient traffic management across large networks. This switch is optimized for high-speed routing and includes advanced features such as policy-based routing, static and dynamic routing, and support for IPv4 and IPv6 environments. Network administrators benefit from simplified configuration and enhanced flexibility when deploying complex enterprise topologies.

High-Density 10 Gigabit Ethernet Connectivity

Equipped with 24 SFP+ ports, the Cisco C9500-24X-E provides ample high-speed connectivity for modern data centers and campus networks. These ports support fiber-optic transceivers, enabling long-distance connections with minimal signal loss. The high port density allows organizations to consolidate multiple network devices and reduce overall infrastructure complexity. Furthermore, the switch supports advanced link aggregation techniques, improving bandwidth utilization and ensuring network redundancy in critical environments.

Enhanced Performance and Low Latency

Performance is a key differentiator of the Cisco Catalyst 9500 series. The C9500-24X-E switch leverages dedicated hardware forwarding and optimized switching architecture to deliver low latency and high throughput for demanding applications. It can handle millions of packets per second, making it suitable for data-intensive tasks such as virtualization, cloud computing, and real-time analytics. Network administrators can rely on consistent performance, even under peak traffic conditions.

Comprehensive Security Features

Security is a fundamental aspect of modern networking, and the Cisco C9500-24X-E incorporates a wide range of features to protect enterprise networks. Advanced access control lists (ACLs) and role-based access control (RBAC) enable granular control over user permissions and traffic flow. The switch supports IEEE 802.1X authentication, ensuring secure network access for devices and users. Additional security capabilities include MACsec encryption for data protection, DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, and IP source guard, which collectively prevent unauthorized access and mitigate network threats.

Integrated Network Automation

The Catalyst 9500 series emphasizes automation and operational efficiency. The C9500-24X-E supports Cisco DNA Center integration, enabling centralized management, policy-based automation, and proactive monitoring. Network administrators can deploy configuration templates, automate repetitive tasks, and receive real-time insights into network performance and security events. This automation reduces operational complexity and minimizes human error, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance.

Programmability and Open APIs

The C9500-24X-E switch is designed for modern programmable networks, offering support for RESTful APIs, NETCONF, and YANG-based automation. Developers and IT teams can integrate the switch with network management systems and custom applications, enabling dynamic network provisioning, automated troubleshooting, and analytics-driven optimization. This level of programmability ensures that the switch can adapt to evolving business requirements and technology trends.

Resiliency and High Availability

Enterprise networks require continuous uptime, and the Cisco C9500-24X-E is built with resiliency in mind. Redundant power supplies and fans provide fault tolerance, ensuring uninterrupted operation in the event of hardware failures. The switch supports Virtual Switching System (VSS), allowing two switches to operate as a single logical device for improved redundancy and load balancing. High availability features such as StackWise Virtual technology and nonstop forwarding further minimize network downtime and maintain consistent service delivery.

Stacking and Scalability

The C9500-24X-E supports advanced stacking capabilities, allowing multiple switches to be connected and managed as a single unit. This simplifies network expansion and enables seamless scaling to accommodate growing enterprise demands. Stacked switches share configuration, forwarding tables, and management interfaces, reducing administrative overhead and improving operational efficiency. StackWise technology ensures high-speed inter-switch communication, maintaining performance across the stack without compromising latency or throughput.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

Cisco has designed the C9500-24X-E with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating features that reduce power consumption without sacrificing performance. Intelligent power management, variable-speed fans, and efficient power supply design contribute to lower operational costs and reduced environmental impact. The switch complies with industry standards for energy-efficient networking, making it a sustainable choice for organizations aiming to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining high-performance networking capabilities.

Advanced Network Management

The Cisco C9500-24X-E integrates with Cisco Prime Infrastructure and DNA Center for comprehensive network management. These platforms provide centralized visibility, proactive alerts, and advanced analytics, enabling IT teams to monitor network health, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance. Real-time telemetry and detailed reporting assist in capacity planning, ensuring that network resources are effectively utilized. Simplified management interfaces and policy-driven automation further enhance operational efficiency.

Support for Modern Data Center Architectures

As data centers evolve, the C9500-24X-E provides essential capabilities to support spine-leaf architectures, high-performance computing clusters, and hybrid cloud environments. Its high port density and low latency make it ideal for aggregation layers, connecting multiple access switches and servers. The switch’s Layer 3 routing features, coupled with advanced quality of service (QoS), ensure efficient traffic distribution and optimal application performance across complex network topologies.

QoS and Traffic Prioritization

Quality of Service is critical for ensuring that high-priority applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, and mission-critical databases receive the necessary bandwidth. The C9500-24X-E supports advanced QoS policies, including traffic classification, queuing, and shaping. Administrators can define priority levels and enforce service-level agreements, ensuring that critical applications maintain optimal performance even during peak network usage. This capability is essential for enterprises that rely on real-time applications and high-speed data processing.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

The Cisco C9500-24X-E is fully compatible with the broader Cisco ecosystem, including Nexus switches, wireless access points, security appliances, and collaboration tools. This interoperability enables seamless deployment of end-to-end network solutions and simplifies integration with existing IT infrastructures. Network administrators can leverage Cisco’s proven technologies, such as TrustSec, ACI, and SD-Access, to enhance security, automation, and policy enforcement across the enterprise network.

Future-Ready Networking

Cisco designed the C9500-24X-E to be adaptable to future networking demands. Its modular design, high-performance hardware, and support for software-defined networking (SDN) allow organizations to implement emerging technologies without replacing existing infrastructure. With ongoing software updates and feature enhancements, the switch remains compatible with evolving protocols, security standards, and enterprise applications. This future-ready approach protects IT investments and ensures long-term network scalability.

Operational Excellence and Reliability

Operational reliability is a hallmark of the Cisco Catalyst 9500 series. The C9500-24X-E benefits from rigorous testing, Cisco’s extensive support ecosystem, and a robust warranty program. High availability features, automated diagnostics, and proactive monitoring contribute to consistent network performance. Enterprise IT teams can rely on this switch to maintain uninterrupted connectivity, support critical business operations, and minimize downtime in dynamic networking environments.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The C9500-24X-E is suitable for a variety of deployment scenarios, ranging from enterprise campus cores to data center aggregation layers. Its high-speed 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and Layer 3 capabilities make it ideal for organizations that require low-latency, high-bandwidth network infrastructure. Typical use cases include large-scale campus networks, high-performance computing clusters, cloud and virtualization environments, and high-availability enterprise data centers. The switch supports seamless integration with other Catalyst series devices, providing a cohesive and scalable network architecture.

Campus Network Deployments

In campus environments, the C9500-24X-E functions as a core or distribution switch, connecting access-layer switches and aggregating traffic from multiple buildings or floors. Its advanced routing and Layer 3 services ensure optimal traffic flow and segmentation between VLANs. The switch supports a wide range of enterprise protocols and security policies, enabling secure and efficient communication across the campus network.

Data Center Aggregation

For data centers, the C9500-24X-E provides high-density 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, low-latency switching, and advanced routing features to connect servers, storage devices, and other network elements. Its stacking and high-availability capabilities support resilient and scalable architectures, while integrated automation simplifies configuration and management. The switch is ideal for hybrid cloud deployments, virtualization, and high-performance applications that demand reliable, high-speed network infrastructure.

Technical Specifications and Hardware Features

The Cisco C9500-24X-E features a compact 1U form factor suitable for standard rack installations. It delivers 24 SFP+ 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports, dual redundant power supplies, and front-to-back cooling with intelligent fans. The switch supports hardware-based forwarding, advanced QoS, Layer 3 routing protocols, and extensive security features. Its modular architecture and software-defined capabilities allow IT teams to enable additional features through Cisco IOS XE software upgrades, extending functionality without requiring hardware replacement.