WS-C4506 Cisco Catalyst 4506 Ethernet Switch

Series: Catalyst 4506

The Cisco WS-C4506 Ethernet Switch is a powerful networking solution that belongs to the Catalyst 4500 series. The Catalyst 4500 series is renowned for its exceptional performance, scalability, and reliability, making it a preferred choice for enterprises of all sizes. With its advanced features and high-quality design, the Catalyst 4506 offers numerous benefits that meet the demands of modern network infrastructure.

Cisco WS-C4506 Ethernet Switch Overview

Manufacturer and Part Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco Systems
• SKU: WS-C4506
• Product Line: Catalyst
• Series: 4500 Series
• Model: 4506
• Product Name: Cisco Catalyst 4506 Ethernet Switch
• Product Type: High-performance Ethernet switch

Technical Specifications

Chassis and Expansion

• Expansion Capacity: Chassis with six available expansion slots
• Pre-installed Modules: No modules installed by default, supports up to 6 modules

Network Performance

• Layer Support: Operates at Layer 4

Management & Monitoring

Comprehensive Management Capabilities

• Manageability: Fully manageable device
• Management Solutions: Equipped with Cisco Works Resource Manager Essentials, Cisco View graphical interface, SNMP (Versions 1, 2c), RMON, SPAN, ESPAN, and Telnet access
• VLAN Provisioning: Capable of VLAN configuration and graphical VLAN representation

Network Protocol Support

• Supported Protocols: SNMP Versions 1 and 2c, RMON, Telnet

Power & Redundancy Features

Reliable Power Supply

• Power Source: Requires power supply unit
• Redundant Power Supply: Yes, redundancy supported for continuous operation

Environmental Specifications

Operating Conditions

• Temperature Range: Operates efficiently between 32°F and 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
• Humidity Tolerance: Supports operation in environments with 10% to 90% humidity
• Maximum Altitude: Operates up to a height of 13,120 feet

Package Contents

• Included in the Box:
• Cisco Catalyst 4506 Switch Chassis
• Catalyst 4000 Series Blank Slot Cover
• Rack-mount hardware for 19-inch racks
• Cable guide accessories

Exceptional Performance

The Catalyst 4506 Ethernet Switch is designed to deliver outstanding performance, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted network operations. Equipped with a high-performance supervisor engine, this switch offers superior forwarding and routing capabilities. It supports high-density gigabit Ethernet interfaces, enabling seamless data transfer and reducing bottlenecks in network traffic.

Moreover, the Catalyst 4506 supports advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS) and multicast routing. QoS ensures that critical applications receive priority over less important traffic, guaranteeing optimal performance for important business operations. Multicast routing allows efficient distribution of data to multiple recipients simultaneously, improving communication within the network.

Scalability and Flexibility

As businesses grow, their networking requirements also evolve. The Catalyst 4506 addresses this by providing exceptional scalability and flexibility. With its modular design, this switch allows easy expansion and customization according to changing needs.

The Catalyst 4506 offers multiple slots for line cards and supervisor engines, allowing organizations to add more ports or upgrade their hardware as required. This flexibility not only future-proofs the network infrastructure but also ensures a smooth transition to higher bandwidths and improved capabilities without disrupting operations.

High Availability

Unplanned network downtime can have severe consequences for businesses. The Catalyst 4506 incorporates various features to ensure high availability and minimize disruptions. It supports redundant power supplies and supervisor engines, enabling seamless failover in case of hardware failures.

Additionally, the Catalyst 4506 offers virtual switching system (VSS) technology, which allows two switches to operate as a single virtual switch. This redundancy feature ensures that even if one switch fails, the network continues to operate without interruption. VSS also provides load balancing and enhances network resiliency, making it an essential feature for organizations that cannot afford downtime.

Security and Access Control

In today's digital landscape, network security is of utmost importance. The Catalyst 4506 addresses this concern by offering robust security features that protect against unauthorized access and cyber threats. It supports features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), which allow administrators to control traffic flow and filter specific packets based on defined rules.

The Catalyst 4506 also provides support for Virtual LANs (VLANs), enabling network segmentation and isolation. This segregation enhances security by preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources. Additionally, the switch supports advanced security protocols like Secure Shell (SSH) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption, ensuring secure remote management and secure communication across the network.

Simplified Management

Managing a complex network infrastructure can be challenging and time-consuming. The Catalyst 4506 simplifies network management through its intuitive management interfaces and comprehensive tools. It supports Cisco IOS Software, which offers a familiar command-line interface (CLI) for configuration and monitoring.

Furthermore, the Catalyst 4506 supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), allowing integration with network management systems for centralized monitoring and control. The switch also supports Cisco Smart Install, enabling easy deployment of new switches with automated configuration.

Energy Efficiency

Reducing energy consumption is a growing concern for businesses aiming to minimize their environmental footprint and lower operating costs. The Catalyst 4506 addresses this by incorporating energy-efficient design elements. It features advanced power management capabilities that optimize power usage based on network demand, resulting in reduced energy consumption.

The switch also supports Cisco EnergyWise, a technology that enables organizations to monitor and manage power consumption across the network. By intelligently managing power allocation to devices, EnergyWise helps organizations achieve their sustainability goals while reducing costs.

In conclusion, the Catalyst 4506 is a powerful Ethernet switch that offers exceptional performance, scalability, and reliability. Its series, the Catalyst 4500, is renowned for its advanced features and high-quality design. With benefits such as exceptional performance, scalability, high availability, security, simplified management, and energy efficiency, the Catalyst 4506 is a valuable investment for businesses of all sizes.