Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch (48 Ports)

Ports

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch is equipped with 48 ports, making it an ideal choice for businesses and organizations that require a high number of connections. These ports provide the ability to connect multiple devices, such as computers, servers, printers, and IP phones, to the network.

Increased Connectivity

With 48 ports available, this Ethernet switch offers increased connectivity options for users. It allows for the simultaneous connection of numerous devices without the need for additional networking equipment. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses with a large number of employees or those that require extensive network infrastructure.

Scalability

The 48 ports on the Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch also provide scalability for growing businesses. As the company expands and more devices need to be connected to the network, this switch can accommodate the increased demand without requiring additional hardware investments. This scalability feature ensures that the network can easily adapt to the changing needs of the organization.

Flexibility

The availability of 48 ports offers flexibility in network design and configuration. Users can connect devices in various combinations and configurations based on their specific requirements. This flexibility allows for efficient network management and ensures that each connected device receives adequate bandwidth and performance.

Power

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch features Power over Ethernet (PoE+) capabilities, which provides significant benefits for users in terms of power management and device connectivity.

Power Management

PoE+ enables the switch to deliver both data and power over a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power cables for connected devices. This feature simplifies power management by centralizing power distribution from a single source. It also allows for remote power management, enabling administrators to control the power supply to individual devices.

Cost Savings

The PoE+ capability of this Ethernet switch offers cost savings by eliminating the need for additional power outlets and reducing the amount of cabling required. This streamlined power management system reduces both installation and maintenance costs, making it an economical choice for businesses.

Device Connectivity

With PoE+, the Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch can power devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras directly from the switch itself. This eliminates the need for separate power adapters and allows for easy device connectivity. It also ensures uninterrupted operation of critical devices during a power outage by providing backup power through an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

Layer

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model, which provides several benefits in terms of network management, efficiency, and security.

Efficient Network Communication

Operating at Layer 2 allows for efficient network communication and data transfer. The switch can make forwarding decisions based on MAC addresses, enabling fast and reliable data transmission between connected devices. This efficiency is particularly important in environments where high network performance is required, such as data centers or organizations with heavy data traffic.

Network Segmentation

Layer 2 switches support network segmentation through the use of virtual LANs (VLANs). VLANs allow for the creation of separate logical networks within a physical network infrastructure, enhancing security and isolating traffic between different departments or user groups. This segmentation provides improved network performance and helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Network Management

Operating at Layer 2 simplifies network management by offering features such as link aggregation, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), and VLAN management. These features enable administrators to optimize network performance, ensure redundancy, and configure VLANs to meet specific requirements. Layer 2 switches also provide advanced troubleshooting capabilities, making it easier to identify and resolve network issues.

Form Factor

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch is rack-mountable, which offers several advantages in terms of space-saving, organization, and scalability.

Space-Saving

Being rack-mountable allows the switch to be conveniently installed in a standard equipment rack, minimizing the physical footprint required for network infrastructure. This space-saving feature is particularly important for businesses with limited space or those looking to optimize their server rooms or data centers.

Organization and Accessibility

Rack-mountable switches provide a structured and organized approach to network infrastructure. The switch can be easily installed alongside other networking equipment, such as servers and patch panels, ensuring a neat and accessible setup. This organized configuration facilitates cable management, troubleshooting, and maintenance tasks.

Scalability

Rack-mountable switches offer scalability as businesses expand their network infrastructure. Additional switches can be easily added to the rack, allowing for seamless integration and expansion of the network. This scalability feature ensures that the network can grow alongside the organization's needs without requiring significant reconfiguration or additional physical space.

Speed

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch supports speeds of 10/100/1000 Mbps, providing users with high-speed connectivity for data transmission and network performance.

Fast Data Transfer

With support for Gigabit Ethernet speeds, this switch enables fast data transfer between connected devices. It ensures that large files can be quickly and efficiently transmitted across the network without experiencing bottlenecks or performance degradation. This speed is particularly advantageous for bandwidth-intensive applications, such as video streaming, large file transfers, and real-time communication.

Improved Network Performance

The high-speed connectivity offered by the Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch improves overall network performance. It reduces latency and response times, allowing for smooth and uninterrupted communication between devices. This enhanced network performance is crucial for businesses that rely on real-time applications or require rapid data processing.

Future-Proofing

The support for 10/100/1000 Mbps ensures that the switch is compatible with a wide range of devices and future network upgrades. It provides a future-proofing benefit by accommodating faster network speeds as technology evolves. This compatibility allows businesses to invest in a switch that can meet their current needs while also being prepared for future advancements.

Features

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch offers several key features, including Quality of Service (QoS), Layer 3 routing, and Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE). These features provide significant benefits in terms of network performance, traffic prioritization, and energy efficiency.

Quality of Service (QoS)

QoS ensures that critical applications and services receive priority over less important traffic. The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch supports QoS capabilities, allowing administrators to prioritize specific types of traffic based on their importance. This feature ensures that bandwidth is allocated efficiently, guaranteeing optimal performance for latency-sensitive applications, such as voice and video communication.

Traffic Management

QoS also enables traffic management by allowing administrators to set policies and rules for different types of traffic. This feature ensures that bandwidth is allocated appropriately, preventing congestion and optimizing network performance. Administrators can prioritize real-time traffic, limit bandwidth for non-essential applications, and manage network resources effectively.

Improved User Experience

The QoS feature of this Ethernet switch enhances the overall user experience by providing consistent and reliable network performance. It ensures that critical applications, such as VoIP or video conferencing, receive the necessary bandwidth and priority to deliver high-quality audio and video without interruptions or delays. This improved user experience contributes to increased productivity and customer satisfaction.

Layer 3 Routing

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch supports Layer 3 routing capabilities, allowing for efficient routing of network traffic. Layer 3 routing enables the switch to make forwarding decisions based on IP addresses, providing advanced routing capabilities within the local network infrastructure.

Inter-VLAN Communication

Layer 3 routing allows for inter-VLAN communication by enabling the switch to route traffic between different VLANs. This feature enhances network flexibility and security by controlling the flow of traffic between different network segments. It also simplifies network management by eliminating the need for external routers in certain scenarios.

Network Segmentation

Layer 3 routing facilitates network segmentation by providing the ability to divide a large network into smaller subnets. This segmentation enhances security by isolating traffic and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data. It also improves network performance by reducing broadcast traffic and optimizing routing efficiency.

Management

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch offers multiple management options, including web-based, CLI, and SNMP. These management features provide administrators with the flexibility and control necessary for efficient network administration.

Web-based Management

The web-based management interface allows administrators to configure and monitor the switch using a web browser. This intuitive interface provides an easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies network management tasks. It enables administrators to access various switch settings, monitor performance, and make configuration changes without the need for complex command-line interface (CLI) commands.

CLI Management

For advanced users and experienced network administrators, the Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch offers CLI management. The CLI provides a command-based interface that allows administrators to perform detailed configuration and monitoring tasks. It offers granular control and flexibility, making it ideal for complex network environments or specific configuration requirements.

SNMP Management

The switch supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), which enables centralized network management and monitoring. SNMP allows administrators to collect valuable network data, monitor device performance, and receive alerts or notifications for events such as link failures or excessive bandwidth usage. It simplifies network troubleshooting, enhances security, and improves overall network reliability.

Security

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch incorporates various security features, including Access Control Lists (ACL) and port security, to protect the network from unauthorized access and potential threats.

Access Control Lists (ACL)

ACLs are used to filter network traffic based on specified criteria, such as source or destination IP addresses, protocols, or ports. The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch supports ACLs, allowing administrators to define fine-grained access control policies. ACLs provide an additional layer of security by preventing unauthorized traffic from entering or exiting the network.

Network Segmentation

ACLs can be used to segment the network by controlling the flow of traffic between different VLANs or subnets. This segmentation enhances security by isolating sensitive data and limiting access to specific resources. By implementing ACLs, administrators can enforce strict access policies and protect critical assets within the network.

Threat Mitigation

ACLs help mitigate potential threats by allowing administrators to block specific types of traffic or known malicious IP addresses. By filtering out unwanted or potentially harmful traffic, ACLs contribute to a more secure network environment. They provide an additional defense layer against network attacks, unauthorized access attempts, or the spread of malware.

Port Security

Port security is a feature that allows administrators to control access to network ports based on the MAC addresses of connected devices. The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960S-F48FPS-L Ethernet Switch supports port security, enabling administrators to limit the number of devices that can connect to a specific port or restrict access to authorized MAC addresses only.

Device Authentication

Port security ensures that only authorized devices can connect to the network. By configuring port security, administrators can prevent unauthorized devices from gaining access, thereby protecting against potential security breaches. This feature is particularly valuable in environments where physical access control is essential, such as public areas or shared workspaces.

Network Visibility

Port security provides enhanced network visibility by logging and reporting any unauthorized attempts to connect to the network. Administrators can monitor and track the MAC addresses of connected devices, detect any suspicious activity, and respond promptly to potential security incidents. This visibility helps maintain the integrity of the network and ensures that only authorized devices are connected.