C9300-48UXM-A Cisco Catalyst Ethernet Switch, Stackable Layer 2, 48 Ports

Overview of the CISCO Catalyst 9300 Series Ethernet Switch

The Cisco Catalyst 9300-48UXM-A Managed Layer 3 Ethernet Switch is designed to support modern enterprise infrastructures that demand higher bandwidth, consistent power delivery, and reliable performance. Positioned within the Catalyst 9300 Series, this switch addresses the needs of organizations deploying advanced wireless access points, IP-based collaboration tools, and data-intensive applications across campus and branch networks.

General Specification

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: C9300-48UXM-A
• Product Line: Catalyst
• Product Series: 9300
• Product Type: Ethernet Switch

Technical Information

• Total Ports: 48 Gigabit Ethernet
• Supported Media Type: Twisted Pair
• Ethernet Standard: Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Technology: 10/100/1000BASE-T
• Layer Support: Layer 2
• Form Factor: Rack-mountable
• Uplink Ports: Yes
• Modular Design: No
• Stackable: Yes

Power Specifications

• Power Source: Integrated Power Supply
• Redundant Power Supply: Not Available

Additional Features

• High-density Gigabit Ethernet ports for robust network performance.
• Rack-mountable design for efficient space utilization in data centers.
• Supports advanced networking technologies for enhanced connectivity.

Key Benefits

• Efficient network management with Layer 2 support.
• Scalable solution with stackable capabilities for future growth.
• Reliable operation with a power supply designed for consistent performance.

Enterprise-Class Overview of Cisco Switch

The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A Catalyst 9300 Managed Layer 3 Switch with 48 ports represents a cornerstone of modern enterprise networking, engineered to support high-density access layer deployments with advanced performance, security, and scalability. As part of the Catalyst 9300 family, this model is designed to meet the evolving requirements of digital-ready networks, supporting high-speed connectivity, intelligent automation, and seamless integration with Cisco’s software-defined networking ecosystem. The switch is optimized for organizations that demand consistent uptime, simplified management, and the ability to support bandwidth-intensive applications across wired and wireless infrastructures.

This category focuses on enterprise-grade managed switches built for access-layer and aggregation-layer roles, where reliability, advanced routing capabilities, and flexible power delivery are critical. The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A stands out within this category by offering multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, full Layer 3 functionality, and deep integration with Cisco IOS XE, enabling centralized control, programmability, and advanced analytics. It is purpose-built to handle the increasing number of connected devices, including high-performance workstations, IP phones, wireless access points, and IoT endpoints.

Hardware Architecture and Build Quality

The physical and internal architecture of the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A reflects Cisco’s commitment to long-term durability and consistent performance in enterprise environments. The switch is housed in a robust chassis designed for continuous operation in wiring closets and data centers. High-quality components, redundant internal systems, and efficient thermal management ensure stable operation even under sustained heavy loads.

The switch architecture is optimized for high throughput and low latency, supporting demanding real-time applications such as voice, video conferencing, and collaboration platforms. Internal switching capacity is engineered to handle simultaneous traffic across all ports without congestion, enabling predictable performance for business-critical workloads.

Port Density and Multi-Gigabit Capabilities

The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A is equipped with forty-eight multi-gigabit Ethernet ports designed to support a wide range of endpoint devices. These ports are capable of delivering speeds beyond traditional Gigabit Ethernet, making them suitable for next-generation wireless access points and high-performance client devices. Multi-gigabit support allows organizations to maximize the value of existing cabling infrastructure while still achieving higher data rates.

This level of port density makes the switch ideal for medium to large enterprise deployments where multiple users and devices require consistent high-speed access. The design supports both current and future bandwidth needs, reducing the need for frequent hardware refresh cycles.

Uplink and Expansion Flexibility

In addition to its access ports, the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A supports modular uplink options, allowing organizations to choose the most appropriate uplink configuration for their network topology. This flexibility enables seamless integration into core and distribution layers, supporting high-speed fiber or copper connections as required.

The ability to adapt uplink configurations ensures that the switch can scale with organizational growth, supporting increased traffic volumes and evolving network architectures without requiring a complete replacement.

Advanced Layer 3 Switching and Routing Capabilities

As a fully managed Layer 3 switch, the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A provides comprehensive routing and switching features that extend beyond basic connectivity. It supports advanced routing protocols and intelligent traffic management, enabling efficient communication between network segments and improved overall performance.

Layer 3 capabilities allow organizations to implement more sophisticated network designs, reducing dependency on external routers for inter-VLAN routing and improving latency-sensitive application performance.

Dynamic Routing Protocol Support

The switch supports a wide range of dynamic routing protocols that facilitate automated route discovery and adaptation to network changes. This ensures optimal path selection and resilience in complex enterprise networks. Dynamic routing support enhances redundancy and fault tolerance, minimizing downtime during link or device failures.

These routing features make the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A suitable for deployments where scalability and network resilience are top priorities.

High Availability and Redundancy Features

High availability is a core design principle of the Catalyst 9300 series. The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A includes support for redundant power supplies and advanced failover mechanisms that help maintain continuous network operation. These features are essential for environments where downtime can result in significant productivity losses.

Stacking capabilities further enhance availability by allowing multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit. This approach simplifies management and provides seamless failover in the event of a hardware issue.

Power over Ethernet and Device Support

The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A is engineered to deliver robust Power over Ethernet capabilities, making it an ideal solution for powering a wide range of network-connected devices. From wireless access points to IP cameras and VoIP phones, the switch can provide consistent and reliable power directly through Ethernet cabling.

Advanced power management features enable administrators to monitor and allocate power efficiently, ensuring optimal utilization across all connected devices. This capability simplifies infrastructure deployment and reduces the need for additional power sources.

Intelligent Power Management

Intelligent power allocation allows the switch to prioritize critical devices and dynamically adjust power delivery based on demand. This ensures that essential network components remain operational even during peak usage or power constraints.

The ability to centrally manage power delivery contributes to lower operational costs and improved network reliability.

Security Features and Network Protection

Security is a fundamental aspect of the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A category, addressing the growing need to protect enterprise networks from internal and external threats. The switch incorporates multiple layers of security controls designed to safeguard data integrity and prevent unauthorized access.

These security mechanisms are deeply integrated into the switching fabric, providing real-time protection without compromising performance.

Access Control and Authentication

The switch supports advanced authentication mechanisms that verify user and device identities before granting network access. This ensures that only authorized endpoints can connect to the network, reducing the risk of breaches.

Granular access control policies enable administrators to define and enforce security rules tailored to specific roles and device types.

Threat Detection and Mitigation

Integrated threat detection features help identify suspicious activity and potential vulnerabilities within the network. By monitoring traffic patterns and enforcing security policies, the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A contributes to a proactive security posture.

These capabilities are essential for maintaining compliance with industry standards and protecting sensitive business data.

Software, Management, and Automation

The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A operates on Cisco IOS XE, a modern, modular operating system that supports advanced management and automation capabilities. This software foundation enables centralized configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting across the entire network infrastructure.

Automation features reduce manual configuration tasks, minimizing human error and accelerating deployment times.

Centralized Network Management

Integration with Cisco’s management platforms allows administrators to manage the switch from a single interface, gaining visibility into performance metrics, traffic patterns, and potential issues. This centralized approach simplifies day-to-day operations and improves response times.

Comprehensive monitoring tools provide actionable insights that support informed decision-making and long-term network planning.

Programmability and API Support

Support for open APIs and programmability enables organizations to integrate the switch into custom workflows and automation frameworks. This flexibility is particularly valuable for large enterprises and service providers seeking to align network operations with DevOps practices.

Programmable features enhance agility and allow networks to adapt quickly to changing business requirements.

Scalability and Future-Ready Design

The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A is designed with future growth in mind, offering scalability features that allow networks to expand without major disruptions. Its modular architecture, stacking capabilities, and software-driven features ensure long-term relevance in rapidly evolving IT environments.

This future-ready design supports emerging technologies such as advanced wireless standards, increased device density, and higher application bandwidth demands.

Stacking and Simplified Expansion

Stacking multiple switches into a single logical unit simplifies management and enhances scalability. This approach allows organizations to increase port capacity and performance while maintaining a unified control plane.

Stacking also improves redundancy and load balancing, contributing to a resilient and high-performing network infrastructure.

Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

The Cisco C9300-48UXM-A Catalyst 9300 Managed L3 Switch is suitable for a wide range of deployment scenarios, including corporate campuses, branch offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and industrial environments. Its versatility and advanced feature set make it a reliable choice for organizations with diverse networking needs.

In access-layer deployments, the switch provides high-speed connectivity and power delivery to end-user devices, while in aggregation roles, it supports efficient traffic consolidation and routing.

Enterprise Campus Networks

In enterprise campus environments, the switch supports dense user populations and high-performance applications. Its advanced security and management features help maintain a secure and efficient network that supports daily business operations.

The ability to integrate seamlessly with wireless infrastructure makes it an ideal foundation for unified wired and wireless networks.

Branch Office and Remote Locations

For branch offices, the Cisco C9300-48UXM-A offers centralized management and consistent policy enforcement, simplifying network operations across distributed locations. This consistency ensures predictable performance and security regardless of location.

Remote management capabilities reduce the need for on-site IT staff, lowering operational costs.