WS-C3850-24XU-E Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series Layer 3 Switch with 24 Ports Ethernet

Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series Managed Switching Solution

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E belongs to the enterprise-grade Catalyst 3850 family, engineered to deliver advanced routing, switching, and scalability for demanding network environments. This model integrates high-speed connectivity with intelligent network control to support modern data traffic requirements.

Core Product Overview

• Brand: Cisco
• Product Line: Catalyst
• Series: 3850
• Model Number: WS-C3850-24XU-E
• Device Type: Managed Network Switch
• Switch Category: Layer 3

Port Configuration and Connectivity

High-Density Network Interfaces

• Equipped with 24 high-performance network ports
• All ports support 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds
• Designed for bandwidth-intensive applications and core switching

Port Technology Details

• Ethernet Standard: 10GBase-T
• Media Type Supported: Twisted Pair Cabling
• Optimized for low latency and reliable data transmission

Switch Architecture and Expansion

Stacking Capabilities

• Integrated stack ports for scalable network growth
• Supports unified management across stacked switches
• Improves redundancy and operational efficiency

Design Characteristics

• Fixed configuration platform with non-modular design
• Purpose-built for stability and consistent performance

Performance and Network Intelligence

Advanced Layer 3 Functionality

• Full Layer 3 routing support
• Enables efficient traffic segmentation and routing decisions
• Ideal for enterprise access and distribution layers

Traffic Optimization Features

• Quality of Service (QoS) for traffic prioritization
• Virtual LAN (VLAN) support for network segmentation
• Enhanced control over data flow and application performance

Management and Control Options

Comprehensive Manageability

• Fully manageable switch for centralized administration
• Supports Command Line Interface (CLI)
• Intuitive web-based management interface
• SNMP compatibility for network monitoring and automation

Power and Reliability Features

Power Supply Configuration

• Powered via an internal power supply unit
• Designed for continuous enterprise operation

High Availability Design

• Supports redundant power supply integration
• Minimizes downtime and enhances network resilience
• Suitable for mission-critical infrastructure deployments

Enterprise-Class Switching Architecture of Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E Catalyst 3850 Series 24 Ports Managed Switch belongs to a highly regarded class of enterprise-grade access layer switches designed to unify wired and wireless networking under a single, intelligent platform. This category of managed switches is engineered to support modern digital workplaces where mobility, application performance, and centralized control are critical. The Catalyst 3850 Series represents a convergence of advanced hardware design and sophisticated software capabilities that allow organizations to scale their networks while maintaining predictable performance, reliability, and security.

The WS-C3850-24XU-E model specifically addresses environments that demand high-speed user access, advanced policy enforcement, and seamless integration with upstream distribution and core layers. Within this category, managed switches are defined by their ability to be configured, monitored, and optimized through software, enabling administrators to adapt network behavior dynamically. The Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series enhances this concept by introducing an application-aware infrastructure that recognizes traffic types and applies policies accordingly, ensuring that business-critical applications receive priority treatment.

As part of the enterprise access switching category, the Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E is designed to operate efficiently in medium to large networks where uptime, performance consistency, and simplified operations are essential. The hardware and software synergy within this category allows organizations to future-proof their network investments while supporting evolving technologies such as high-density wireless access points, voice over IP deployments, and bandwidth-intensive applications.

Advanced Hardware Platform and Switching Performance

The hardware platform of the Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E reflects the evolution of access layer switching toward higher throughput and lower latency. This category of switches is built around a powerful architecture capable of handling large volumes of traffic without performance degradation. The 24-port configuration supports high-speed connectivity suitable for modern endpoints, while the internal switching fabric ensures that data flows efficiently between ports and uplinks.

Within the Catalyst 3850 Series category, performance is not limited to raw throughput alone. The switch is designed to maintain consistent forwarding rates even under heavy load, which is essential for environments with simultaneous voice, video, and data traffic. The architecture emphasizes deterministic performance, allowing network designers to predict behavior and capacity with confidence. This predictability is a defining characteristic of enterprise managed switch categories and is a key reason organizations rely on Cisco Catalyst platforms.

The WS-C3850-24XU-E also supports modular uplink options, enabling flexible integration with different network topologies. This adaptability allows the switch to function as a standalone access device or as part of a stacked configuration, extending its usefulness across various deployment scenarios. The category as a whole emphasizes scalability without compromising performance, making it suitable for growing organizations.

High-Speed Port Capabilities and Power Delivery

Within the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series managed switch category, port capabilities play a crucial role in defining value. The WS-C3850-24XU-E is equipped with 24 high-speed access ports designed to support modern devices that require increased bandwidth. These ports enable seamless connectivity for workstations, wireless access points, and other networked devices that depend on reliable, high-throughput links.

The category is also known for robust power delivery capabilities that support power-hungry devices without the need for additional electrical infrastructure. This integrated approach simplifies deployments and reduces operational complexity. By combining data and power over the same cabling infrastructure, organizations can deploy devices more efficiently while maintaining centralized control over power allocation.

In enterprise environments, consistent power delivery and port reliability are essential for maintaining service availability. The Catalyst 3850 Series addresses these requirements through intelligent power management features that allocate resources dynamically based on device needs. This approach aligns with the broader category goal of maximizing efficiency while minimizing downtime.

Stacking Technology and Scalability Advantages

Stacking technology is a defining feature of the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series category, and it plays a significant role in the value proposition of the WS-C3850-24XU-E. Stacking allows multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit, simplifying management and increasing overall capacity. This capability enables organizations to scale their access layer incrementally without redesigning the network architecture.

From an operational perspective, stacking enhances redundancy and resiliency. If one unit within the stack experiences an issue, traffic can be rerouted through other members, maintaining service continuity. This resilience is a critical requirement in enterprise environments where network downtime can have significant business impact. The category’s emphasis on high availability ensures that the infrastructure can support mission-critical operations.

Scalability within this category also extends to future expansion. As organizations grow and network demands increase, additional switches can be added to the stack seamlessly. This modular approach aligns with long-term planning strategies and reduces the need for disruptive upgrades.

Unified Wired and Wireless Networking Capabilities

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E Catalyst 3850 Series 24 Ports Managed Switch is part of a category that redefines access layer networking by unifying wired and wireless services. This convergence allows administrators to manage both connection types through a single platform, streamlining operations and improving visibility. The ability to treat wired and wireless traffic consistently is a hallmark of the Catalyst 3850 Series and sets it apart within the managed switch category.

In traditional network designs, wired and wireless infrastructures are often managed separately, leading to increased complexity and potential inconsistencies in policy enforcement. The Catalyst 3850 Series addresses this challenge by integrating wireless control functionality directly into the switch. This approach reduces the need for standalone controllers and simplifies deployment, particularly in distributed environments.

Unified networking within this category also enhances security and quality of service. By applying the same policies to all endpoints regardless of connection type, organizations can maintain a consistent security posture while optimizing application performance. This holistic approach reflects the evolving needs of modern enterprises.

Application Awareness and Traffic Optimization

Application awareness is a central theme within the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series managed switch category. The WS-C3850-24XU-E is designed to recognize different types of network traffic and apply intelligent policies that prioritize critical applications. This capability is essential in environments where multiple applications compete for bandwidth and where user experience is directly tied to application performance.

By leveraging deep packet inspection and advanced classification techniques, the switch can identify application flows and allocate resources accordingly. This ensures that latency-sensitive applications such as voice and video receive the necessary bandwidth and low-latency treatment. The category’s focus on application-level visibility enables organizations to align network behavior with business priorities.

Traffic optimization features also contribute to efficient bandwidth utilization. By managing congestion and preventing bottlenecks, the Catalyst 3850 Series helps maintain consistent performance even during peak usage periods. This reliability is a key differentiator within the enterprise managed switch category.

Quality of Service and User Experience

Quality of Service capabilities are integral to the Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E and the broader Catalyst 3850 Series category. These features allow administrators to define policies that control how different types of traffic are handled across the network. By prioritizing critical services, organizations can ensure that essential applications remain responsive and reliable.

User experience is increasingly dependent on network performance, particularly in environments that rely on real-time collaboration tools and cloud-based applications. The Catalyst 3850 Series addresses this challenge by providing granular control over traffic flows, enabling consistent performance for all users. This focus on user experience reflects the category’s alignment with modern workplace requirements.

Effective Quality of Service implementation also supports compliance and service level objectives. By maintaining predictable performance, organizations can meet internal and external expectations while reducing the risk of service disruptions.

Integration with Network Management and Automation

Integration with centralized management and automation tools is a defining characteristic of the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series category. The WS-C3850-24XU-E is designed to work seamlessly with Cisco’s network management platforms, providing administrators with comprehensive visibility and control. This integration simplifies configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting across the network.

Automation capabilities within this category enable faster deployment and reduced operational overhead. By leveraging programmable interfaces and policy-based management, organizations can implement changes consistently and efficiently. This approach reduces the likelihood of configuration errors and enhances overall network stability.

Centralized management also supports proactive maintenance and optimization. By analyzing performance metrics and trends, administrators can identify potential issues before they impact users. This proactive approach aligns with the category’s emphasis on reliability and operational excellence.

Security, Reliability, and Enterprise Readiness

Security is a foundational element of the Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E Catalyst 3850 Series 24 Ports Managed Switch and the category it represents. Enterprise networks face a wide range of threats, and access layer switches play a critical role in enforcing security policies at the point of connection. The Catalyst 3850 Series integrates advanced security features that protect both the network infrastructure and connected devices.

Managed switch categories are distinguished by their ability to implement granular access controls and monitor network activity. The Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series enhances these capabilities by providing comprehensive security mechanisms that operate seamlessly alongside performance and management features. This integrated approach ensures that security does not come at the expense of usability or efficiency.

Reliability and enterprise readiness are equally important considerations. The WS-C3850-24XU-E is engineered to operate continuously in demanding environments, with hardware and software features designed to minimize downtime. This focus on resilience supports mission-critical operations and reinforces the switch’s role as a core component of enterprise access networks.

Access Control and Policy Enforcement

Access control is a key aspect of the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series managed switch category. The WS-C3850-24XU-E enables organizations to define and enforce policies that determine how devices connect to the network and what resources they can access. This capability is essential for maintaining security in environments with diverse user populations and device types.

Policy enforcement at the access layer ensures that security measures are applied consistently and effectively. By controlling access based on user identity, device type, and other criteria, organizations can reduce the risk of unauthorized access and potential breaches. The category’s emphasis on intelligent access control reflects the evolving threat landscape and the need for proactive defense strategies.

These capabilities also support compliance requirements by providing visibility into network access and activity. Organizations can demonstrate adherence to security policies and regulatory standards while maintaining operational flexibility.

High Availability and Redundancy Features

High availability is a defining requirement within the enterprise managed switch category, and the Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E is designed to meet this expectation. Redundancy features such as stacking, resilient power options, and fast failover mechanisms contribute to continuous operation even in the event of component failures.

The Catalyst 3850 Series architecture minimizes single points of failure, ensuring that network services remain accessible under adverse conditions. This reliability is critical for organizations that depend on constant connectivity to support business processes. By maintaining uptime and reducing recovery times, the switch enhances overall network resilience.

High availability features also simplify maintenance and upgrades. Administrators can perform tasks without disrupting service, which is a significant advantage in environments that require around-the-clock operation.

Long-Term Value and Lifecycle Support

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-E Catalyst 3850 Series 24 Ports Managed Switch represents a category of networking equipment designed for long-term value. Enterprise organizations prioritize investments that offer longevity, consistent performance, and ongoing support. The Catalyst 3850 Series aligns with these priorities by providing a robust platform that can adapt to changing requirements over time.

Lifecycle support and software updates ensure that the switch remains secure and functional as new technologies and threats emerge. This commitment to ongoing improvement enhances the return on investment and reinforces the switch’s position within the enterprise managed switch category. By choosing a platform designed for durability and adaptability, organizations can build a network infrastructure that supports their strategic objectives well into the future.