WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V Cisco Catalyst 4500 Fast Ethernet Switch Module

Cisco WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V Catalyst 4500 Switching Module

The Cisco WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V Catalyst 4500 series switching module is engineered to deliver reliable, high-speed Ethernet connectivity for enterprise and campus networks. Designed for seamless integration within Cisco Catalyst 4500 and 4000 chassis-based switches, this module provides scalable Gigabit Ethernet performance while maintaining backward compatibility with Fast Ethernet and Ethernet standards. Its versatile design supports modern network demands such as high bandwidth utilization, consistent uptime, and efficient traffic handling across multiple network segments.

 Product Identification

• Brand: Cisco
• Part Number: WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V
• Product Type: Ethernet Switching Module
• Module Category: Catalyst 4500 Series Line Card

Port Configuration and Density

• 24 x 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet LAN ports
• High-density RJ-45 copper interfaces
• Ideal for access-layer and aggregation-layer deployments
• Supports mixed-speed device environments

Supported Data Rates

• 10 Mbps Ethernet (Half-duplex and Full-duplex)
• 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet (Half-duplex and Full-duplex)
• 1 Gbps Gigabit Ethernet (Half-duplex and Full-duplex)

Optimized Traffic Handling

• Efficient packet forwarding for high-throughput environments
• Reduced latency for real-time applications
• Stable performance during peak network utilization

Supported Catalyst 4500 Series Platforms

• Cisco Catalyst 4503 Switch
• Cisco Catalyst 4506 Switch
• Cisco Catalyst 4507R Switch
• Cisco Catalyst 4510R Switch

Supported Catalyst 4000 Series Platforms

• Cisco Catalyst 4003 Switch
• Cisco Catalyst 4006 Switch

Key Operational Benefits

• Scalable port density for expanding networks
• Seamless integration with Cisco Catalyst architectures
• Cost-effective copper Ethernet connectivity
• Reliable performance for mission-critical applications

Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series Switching Module Architecture

The Cisco WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V Catalyst 4500 Fast Ethernet Switching Module with 24 Ports belongs to a modular switching category engineered for scalable enterprise networks that demand consistent performance, reliability, and long-term operational stability. This category focuses on line cards and switching modules designed specifically for the Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series chassis, enabling organizations to expand port density and network capacity without replacing the core switching infrastructure. The modular design philosophy allows network architects to adapt to evolving bandwidth, security, and application requirements while maintaining compatibility with existing Catalyst 4500 supervisors and backplane architecture.

Within this category, Fast Ethernet switching modules provide dependable connectivity for access-layer and distribution-layer environments where stable 10/100 Mbps connections remain essential. These modules are commonly deployed in enterprise campuses, educational institutions, industrial facilities, and branch offices where legacy devices, specialized equipment, or cost-sensitive endpoints still rely on Fast Ethernet standards. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V module exemplifies this category by delivering consistent Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching support when paired with compatible supervisor engines.

24-Port RJ45 Fast Ethernet Port Density

The defining characteristic of the Cisco WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V category is its 24-port RJ45 Fast Ethernet configuration, optimized for high-density copper-based network connectivity. This port density supports efficient aggregation of multiple endpoints within a single Catalyst 4500 chassis slot, reducing the need for additional access switches and simplifying overall network topology. Each RJ45 interface is designed to support standard Ethernet cabling, ensuring compatibility with widely deployed structured cabling systems.

This category of switching modules is particularly valuable in environments where consistent port availability and predictable performance are required. The 24-port layout enables administrators to connect a large number of workstations, IP-enabled devices, or industrial controllers while maintaining centralized management and monitoring through the Catalyst 4500 platform. By integrating these ports directly into the chassis, organizations can reduce latency and improve traffic handling efficiency compared to standalone access switches.

Fast Ethernet Technology and Operational Relevance

Fast Ethernet technology remains a practical solution within many enterprise networks, and this category of Cisco switching modules addresses that continued demand. Operating at 10/100 Mbps, Fast Ethernet provides stable and deterministic throughput for applications that do not require Gigabit speeds. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V module supports auto-negotiation, enabling seamless communication with both legacy 10 Mbps devices and modern 100 Mbps endpoints.

In network segments where bandwidth requirements are predictable and controlled, Fast Ethernet switching modules deliver efficient utilization of network resources. This category supports environments such as building management systems, voice gateways, security devices, and specialized equipment that prioritize reliability over raw throughput. By maintaining Fast Ethernet support within the Catalyst 4500 ecosystem, Cisco ensures backward compatibility while preserving centralized control and enterprise-grade resiliency.

Integration with Cisco Catalyst 4500 Chassis

The Cisco WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V switching module category is engineered for seamless integration with Catalyst 4500 Series chassis. This integration ensures that the module leverages the chassis backplane bandwidth, power distribution, and cooling systems. As part of the Catalyst 4500 modular ecosystem, these switching modules benefit from redundant power supplies, hot-swappable components, and centralized system monitoring.

Compatibility with multiple Catalyst 4500 supervisor engines allows this category to support a wide range of network deployments, from smaller enterprise cores to large campus aggregation layers. When installed, the module operates as a native extension of the chassis, inheriting the switching intelligence and feature set provided by the supervisor. This design reduces configuration complexity and enhances overall network stability.

Chassis-Based Switching Advantages

Chassis-based switching modules offer significant advantages over fixed-configuration switches, particularly in enterprise environments that require scalability and long service life. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V category benefits from centralized forwarding, shared fabric resources, and unified management. These characteristics allow organizations to expand or modify network capacity without disrupting existing connections.

By consolidating access ports within a Catalyst 4500 chassis, network administrators can simplify cabling, reduce rack space usage, and improve operational efficiency. The category supports structured growth strategies, enabling incremental upgrades that align with business expansion or technology refresh cycles.

Switching Performance and Traffic Handling

Switching modules within this category are designed to deliver consistent packet forwarding performance suitable for enterprise workloads. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V supports wire-speed Fast Ethernet switching across all 24 ports when operating within the capabilities of the installed supervisor engine. This ensures predictable latency and minimal packet loss, even during periods of sustained network activity.

Traffic handling efficiency is enhanced through hardware-based forwarding mechanisms that offload processing from the control plane. This category of modules supports advanced buffering and queue management techniques, allowing smooth operation for voice, video, and data traffic traversing the Fast Ethernet interfaces.

Quality of Service Capabilities

Quality of Service functionality is a key aspect of the Cisco Catalyst 4500 switching module category. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V supports traffic classification and prioritization when paired with compatible supervisors and software. This allows administrators to ensure that latency-sensitive applications such as voice communications receive appropriate priority over less critical data flows.

By enabling granular QoS policies at the port level, this category helps maintain service quality across diverse application environments. The ability to manage congestion and allocate bandwidth effectively contributes to a stable and predictable user experience.

Network Security Features and Controls

Security is a fundamental requirement within enterprise switching environments, and this category of Cisco switching modules supports a comprehensive set of access-layer security capabilities. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V can participate in port-based security mechanisms that help prevent unauthorized access to the network. These controls are enforced through the Catalyst 4500 platform, ensuring centralized policy management.

Support for features such as MAC address control, VLAN segmentation, and integration with authentication frameworks enhances the overall security posture of networks utilizing this category. By embedding security at the switching module level, organizations can reduce the risk of lateral movement and unauthorized device connectivity.

VLAN and Segmentation Support

Virtual LAN segmentation is a core function supported by the WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V category. Each Fast Ethernet port can be assigned to specific VLANs, enabling logical separation of network traffic within a shared physical infrastructure. This capability is essential for enforcing security policies, managing broadcast domains, and optimizing network performance.

VLAN support within this category allows organizations to design flexible network architectures that align with departmental, functional, or application-specific requirements. Integration with Catalyst 4500 routing and switching features ensures seamless inter-VLAN communication when required.

Reliability and High Availability Design

The Cisco Catalyst 4500 switching module category emphasizes high availability and operational resilience. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V benefits from the chassis-based design that supports redundant power supplies and supervisor engines. This architecture minimizes downtime and ensures continuous network operation even during component failures or maintenance activities.

Hot-swappable module support allows administrators to replace or upgrade switching modules without interrupting service to other ports within the chassis. This feature is particularly valuable in mission-critical environments where network availability is essential to business operations.

Enterprise-Grade Build Quality

Switching modules in this category are manufactured to meet stringent enterprise reliability standards. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V is designed for long-term deployment in demanding network environments, with robust hardware components and thermal management considerations. This build quality contributes to extended service life and reduced total cost of ownership.

The Catalyst 4500 platform continuously monitors module health and environmental conditions, providing proactive alerts and diagnostics. This capability allows network teams to address potential issues before they impact performance or availability.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The Cisco WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V switching module category is well suited for a wide range of deployment scenarios. In campus networks, these modules often serve as access-layer connectivity for office workstations, classroom devices, and administrative systems. Their Fast Ethernet ports provide reliable connectivity for environments with moderate bandwidth requirements.

In industrial and specialized deployments, this category supports equipment that relies on stable Ethernet connections rather than high-speed data transfer. Manufacturing control systems, building automation networks, and security infrastructure frequently benefit from the predictable performance and robustness offered by Fast Ethernet switching modules within the Catalyst 4500 platform.

Legacy Network Support and Modern Integration

One of the key strengths of this category is its ability to bridge legacy network requirements with modern chassis-based switching architectures. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V allows organizations to continue supporting existing devices while gradually transitioning to higher-speed technologies elsewhere in the network.

This flexibility enables phased network upgrades that align with budget constraints and operational priorities. By maintaining compatibility within the Catalyst 4500 ecosystem, the category supports long-term network evolution without disruptive infrastructure changes.

Scalability and Long-Term Value

Scalability is a core attribute of the Cisco Catalyst 4500 switching module category. The WS-X4524-GB-RJ45V contributes to scalable designs by allowing incremental expansion of port capacity within a single chassis. As network demands grow, additional modules can be installed to accommodate new users or devices.

This modular scalability supports strategic planning and protects existing investments. Organizations can deploy Fast Ethernet modules where appropriate while reserving other slots for higher-speed modules or specialized interfaces, creating a balanced and cost-effective network architecture.