SM-ES3G-16-P= Cisco 16 Ports Service Module PoE Managed Switch

Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= 16-Port PoE Managed Switch Overview

The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= is a high-performance service module designed for seamless data networking. With 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports and full Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, this switch module ensures reliable connectivity for enterprise environments.

Manufacturer & Product Details

• Brand: Cisco
• Model/Part Number: SM-ES3G-16-P=
• Product Category: Switch Module
• Port Count: 16 Ports

Technical Specifications

Network Applications

Ideal for data networking and high-speed communication, this module supports efficient network traffic management and reliable connectivity across Cisco router platforms.

Interfaces and Connectivity

• Total Ports: 16
• Connector Type: RJ-45
• Port Details: 16 x RJ-45 10/100/1000Base-T with auto-negotiation LAN support

Media & Performance Capabilities

• Supported Media: Twisted Pair cabling
• Ethernet Technology: Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Standard: 10/100/1000Base-T

Physical Dimensions

• Height: 1.6 inches
• Width: 8.1 inches
• Depth: 8.1 inches
• Weight: Approximately 2.18 lb

Compatibility & Supported Platforms

This switch module is fully compatible with the following Cisco router models:

• Cisco 3945 Series
• Cisco 3925 Series
• Cisco 2921 Series
• Cisco 2951 Series
• Cisco 2911 Series

Key Benefits

• High-speed data transmission with 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Seamless Power over Ethernet support for connected devices
• Compact design suitable for Cisco routers and modular setups
• Reliable network performance for enterprise-grade applications

Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= 16 Ports Service Module Managed Switch 

The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= 16 Ports Service Module PoE Managed Switch is a high-performance network device designed for enterprise-level environments requiring reliable power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities combined with advanced network management. This service module delivers seamless connectivity, high-speed data transfer, and intelligent network control features that ensure robust performance for a wide range of applications, including IP telephony, video surveillance, wireless access points, and other PoE-enabled devices. By integrating this switch into your network infrastructure, organizations can achieve greater efficiency, simplified management, and scalable solutions for modern network demands.

Design and Build Quality

Engineered with precision and durability, the Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch features a compact and modular design that allows easy integration into existing Cisco platforms. Its sturdy metal chassis ensures long-term reliability even under continuous operational loads in demanding environments. The switch incorporates advanced cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal temperature levels, preventing performance degradation due to overheating. Its design emphasizes both aesthetics and functionality, allowing seamless installation in server rooms, data centers, and network closets.

Port Configuration and Connectivity

The switch provides 16 high-speed Gigabit Ethernet ports with full PoE support, enabling simultaneous data transmission and power supply to connected devices. Each port is equipped with intelligent PoE management features, allowing administrators to allocate power efficiently based on device priority and energy consumption. The flexible port design ensures compatibility with a variety of network devices, including IP cameras, VoIP phones, and access points, making it ideal for unified communications and converged network environments. Additionally, the switch supports auto-sensing and auto-negotiation, optimizing bandwidth usage and minimizing configuration complexities.

PoE Capabilities and Power Management

Power over Ethernet is a critical feature of the Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch, enabling a single cable to deliver both power and data to network devices. The switch supports dynamic power allocation, which automatically adjusts power distribution based on device requirements, reducing energy waste and preventing overloads. With its PoE+ support, the switch provides sufficient power for high-demand devices such as pan-tilt-zoom cameras and wireless access points with multiple radios. Administrators can monitor power consumption in real-time and set thresholds to maintain network stability, ensuring uninterrupted service for essential applications.

Advanced Management Features

The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= is not just a simple connectivity device; it is a fully managed switch offering a wide range of network management capabilities. Administrators can leverage Cisco’s intuitive management interface to configure VLANs, manage traffic flows, prioritize data using Quality of Service (QoS), and implement security policies. These features allow for granular control of network performance and ensure optimal operation even during periods of high traffic load. The switch supports both SNMP and CLI-based management, providing flexibility for network engineers to monitor and troubleshoot network issues effectively.

VLAN and Network Segmentation

Virtual LANs (VLANs) are a core feature of this service module, enabling logical segmentation of networks to improve security and traffic efficiency. The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= supports multiple VLAN configurations, allowing administrators to isolate departments, prioritize critical applications, and reduce broadcast domains. Network segmentation helps in minimizing congestion, enhancing overall performance, and securing sensitive data from unauthorized access. The switch’s VLAN management tools integrate seamlessly with Cisco’s larger network ecosystem, allowing for centralized control and simplified configuration across multiple switches.

Quality of Service and Traffic Prioritization

To meet the demands of high-performance networks, the Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch includes comprehensive Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. QoS features allow prioritization of critical data streams, such as voice and video, over less time-sensitive traffic, ensuring clear communication and uninterrupted media delivery. Administrators can define traffic classes, implement rate limiting, and configure queue management to optimize bandwidth allocation. This capability is essential for enterprise environments where multiple applications compete for network resources, maintaining consistent performance and user experience.

Security and Reliability

Security is a top priority in modern networks, and the Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch incorporates multiple layers of protection to safeguard connected devices and sensitive data. The switch supports 802.1X authentication, access control lists (ACLs), and port security to prevent unauthorized access. Advanced monitoring features allow detection of unusual activity and potential threats, enabling proactive response to security incidents. Reliability is further enhanced by redundant power options and fault-tolerant design, minimizing downtime and ensuring consistent network availability.

Redundancy and Failover Mechanisms

The switch offers robust redundancy features that allow uninterrupted operation even during hardware failures. With support for redundant power supplies, administrators can replace a failed unit without disrupting network services. Additionally, link aggregation and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) ensure continuous connectivity by automatically rerouting traffic in the event of a link failure. These mechanisms enhance the resilience of enterprise networks, providing peace of mind for critical applications and services.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch seamlessly integrates with other Cisco network devices and management tools, providing a cohesive and scalable networking solution. Compatibility with Cisco DNA Center and Cisco Prime Infrastructure enables centralized monitoring, automated configuration, and comprehensive reporting. This integration reduces operational complexity, accelerates troubleshooting, and enhances overall network visibility. Organizations benefit from a unified management experience, improving efficiency and simplifying maintenance tasks.

Performance and Scalability

Designed for high-demand environments, the Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch delivers exceptional performance with low latency and high throughput. Its architecture supports simultaneous processing of multiple data streams, ensuring smooth operation for mission-critical applications. Scalability is a key consideration, allowing organizations to expand their network by stacking additional service modules or integrating with other Cisco switches without disruption. The switch’s forward-thinking design future-proofs network infrastructure, accommodating growing bandwidth and connectivity requirements.

Network Monitoring and Analytics

Effective network management requires comprehensive monitoring and analytics, which are provided by the Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch. Administrators can track port utilization, bandwidth consumption, and device performance in real-time. The switch supports advanced logging and reporting features, enabling detailed analysis of traffic patterns and identification of potential bottlenecks. Integration with Cisco’s analytics tools allows for predictive insights, assisting in capacity planning and proactive network optimization.

Environmental and Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important consideration for modern data centers and enterprise environments. The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch incorporates energy-saving features such as intelligent PoE scheduling, port-based power control, and low-power idle modes. These capabilities reduce electricity consumption, lower operational costs, and contribute to a greener IT infrastructure. By managing power effectively, the switch ensures that only active devices receive necessary power, optimizing energy usage without compromising network performance.

Use Cases and Applications

The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch is ideal for a wide range of applications in enterprise, education, healthcare, retail, and government environments. In corporate offices, it supports unified communications, providing reliable connectivity for VoIP phones and video conferencing systems. In educational institutions, it enables secure and efficient network access for classrooms, labs, and administrative offices. Healthcare facilities benefit from PoE-powered medical devices and surveillance cameras, while retail environments leverage the switch for point-of-sale systems and wireless access points. Its versatility ensures it can meet the unique requirements of diverse industries.

Deployment in Enterprise Networks

Enterprises require highly reliable and manageable switches to maintain network stability across multiple locations. The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= switch facilitates this by offering centralized management, advanced QoS, and security features. Its PoE capabilities simplify the deployment of IP phones, access points, and security cameras, reducing the need for separate power infrastructure. The switch can be integrated into campus networks, branch offices, and data centers, providing a consistent and scalable solution for enterprise networking needs.

Support for Converged Networks

Converged networks, which combine voice, video, and data over a single infrastructure, demand high-performance switches with intelligent traffic management. The Cisco SM-ES3G-16-P= is designed to support these environments, ensuring that latency-sensitive applications like VoIP and video conferencing receive priority. Its managed capabilities allow administrators to configure network policies that optimize traffic flow, maintain service quality, and prevent network congestion. This makes it an ideal choice for organizations transitioning to converged network architectures.