WS-CE500-24PC Cisco Catalyst Ethernet Switch 24 Ports

Overview of Cisco WS-CE500-24PC 24-Port Switch 

The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC is a robust Layer 2 Ethernet switch designed for small to medium business networks. Engineered by Cisco, this 24-port switch offers Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, seamless connectivity, and advanced management features for efficient network performance.

Key Features of Cisco WS-CE500-24PC

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number or SKU: WS-CE500-24PC
• Device Type: Ethernet Switch
• Ports: 24 PoE-enabled RJ-45 ports
• Expansion: 2 Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports and 2 SFP slots
• Layer Support: Layer 2 switching
• Management: Embedded Device Manager & Cisco Network Assistant

Port Configuration and Connectivity

Network Interfaces

• Total Ports: 24 Ethernet ports supporting PoE
• Uplink Ports: 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed connections
• Expansion Slots: 2 SFP slots for fiber connectivity

Supported Media and Ethernet Standards

• Cable Type: Twisted Pair, Category 5
• Network Technology: 10/100/1000Base-T
• Ethernet Technology: Fast Ethernet

Performance and Switching Capabilities

• Switching Capacity: 8.8 Gbps for high-throughput applications
• Forwarding Rate: 6.6 Mpps at wire-speed for smooth packet handling
• Technology: Wired networking with SSL encryption support

Management and Protocol Support

Management Tools

• Manageable via Cisco Network Assistant
• Embedded Device Manager included

Protocol Compatibility

• Switching Protocol: Ethernet
• Routing Protocols: IGMP, IGMPv2, IGMPv3
• Remote Management: SNMP, SNMPv3, RMON

Power and Energy Specifications

• Input Voltage: 110V AC / 220V AC
• Operational Power Consumption: 90W
• Maximum Power Draw: 460W (equivalent to 1570 BTU/hour)
• Power Supply: Internal

Environmental and Physical Specifications

• Operating Temperature: 32°F to 113°F
• Enclosure Type: Desktop
• Included Accessories: Power cord, rack mounting brackets, screws, cable guide, mounting feet, documentation

Expansion and Upgrade Options

• Number of Expansion Slots: 2
• Slot Type: SFP for fiber or uplink connectivity

Enterprise-Class Switching Cisco WS-CE500-24PC Catalyst Series

The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC Catalyst 24 Ports Ethernet Switch represents a critical segment within the enterprise and small-to-medium business networking category, focusing on reliable Layer 2 switching, integrated Power over Ethernet capabilities, and simplified network management. This category is designed to address the growing demand for scalable, secure, and high-performance Ethernet switching infrastructure that supports converged data, voice, and video networks. The Cisco Catalyst CE500 series occupies a strategic position between unmanaged switches and advanced multilayer enterprise switches, offering intelligent features that enhance operational efficiency without unnecessary complexity.

Positioning Within the Cisco Catalyst Switching Portfolio

The WS-CE500-24PC belongs to a broader category of fixed-configuration Ethernet switches engineered to provide consistent network performance in branch offices, retail environments, educational institutions, and distributed enterprise deployments. This category emphasizes cost-effective deployment while maintaining Cisco’s hallmark standards for reliability, interoperability, and security. The Catalyst branding reinforces a legacy of enterprise-grade switching, ensuring compatibility with existing Cisco infrastructure and adherence to proven networking protocols.

24-Port Ethernet Architecture for Dense Network Environments

The 24-port Ethernet design places this switch within a category optimized for moderate to high device density environments. Each port is engineered to support stable and predictable Ethernet connectivity, enabling organizations to connect workstations, IP phones, wireless access points, printers, and surveillance devices through a centralized switching platform. The uniform port layout ensures efficient cable management and simplified network expansion, making this category suitable for both initial deployments and incremental growth scenarios.

Power over Ethernet Capabilities and Network Convergence

One of the defining characteristics of the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category is integrated Power over Ethernet functionality. This capability allows the switch to deliver electrical power and data over standard Ethernet cabling, reducing infrastructure complexity and eliminating the need for separate power sources for connected devices. PoE-enabled switches in this category support the deployment of IP telephony, wireless access points, and networked security devices in locations where traditional power outlets may be limited.

Support for Unified Communications Deployments

The category is particularly well suited for unified communications environments where voice and data traffic converge on a single network. The switch architecture supports IP phones and voice gateways while maintaining data performance for end-user devices. By integrating PoE and intelligent traffic handling, this category ensures consistent call quality and reduced latency, supporting business-critical voice applications without compromising data throughput.

Energy Management and Power Allocation Efficiency

Within this category, power allocation is managed intelligently to ensure that connected devices receive adequate power without exceeding overall system capacity. This approach enhances operational efficiency and reduces energy waste. Organizations benefit from simplified power planning, as the switch dynamically allocates power based on device requirements, contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective network infrastructure.

Layer 2 Switching Features and Traffic Optimization

The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category emphasizes robust Layer 2 switching functionality designed to optimize traffic flow and maintain network stability. These switches support essential Ethernet switching protocols that enable efficient packet forwarding, loop prevention, and segmentation of broadcast domains. This focus on Layer 2 excellence ensures that networks remain responsive even as the number of connected devices increases.

Virtual LAN Segmentation for Network Control

VLAN support is a core aspect of this category, enabling administrators to logically segment networks based on department, application, or security requirements. This capability enhances traffic management and reduces unnecessary broadcast traffic, improving overall network performance. VLAN segmentation also contributes to enhanced security by isolating sensitive systems from general user traffic within the same physical infrastructure.

Quality of Service for Application Prioritization

Quality of Service features within this category allow prioritization of latency-sensitive applications such as voice and video. By classifying and managing traffic at the switch level, the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category ensures that critical applications maintain performance even during periods of high network utilization. This intelligent traffic handling is essential for modern networks that support a diverse range of applications with varying performance requirements.

Security-Oriented Switching Category Characteristics

Security is a foundational element of the Cisco Catalyst switching category, and the WS-CE500-24PC aligns with this emphasis by incorporating features designed to protect network integrity. This category supports mechanisms that control access, mitigate common network threats, and enforce security policies at the edge of the network. Such capabilities are essential in environments where multiple devices and users access shared network resources.

Port-Level Access Control and Authentication

Switches in this category enable port-based access control, allowing administrators to define which devices are permitted to connect to the network. Authentication mechanisms help prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of internal security breaches. By enforcing policies directly at the switch ports, organizations can maintain tighter control over network entry points.

Protection Against Common Layer 2 Threats

The category includes features designed to guard against common Layer 2 attacks, such as address spoofing and broadcast storms. These protections help ensure network availability and stability, particularly in environments with a large number of connected endpoints. By maintaining a secure switching foundation, the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category supports compliance with organizational security standards.

Management and Configuration Simplicity

The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category is designed with ease of management in mind, catering to organizations that require enterprise-grade features without complex administrative overhead. The management interfaces provided within this category allow administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot network operations efficiently. This balance of capability and simplicity makes the category accessible to IT teams with varying levels of expertise.

Centralized Configuration and Monitoring

Switches in this category support centralized configuration methods that streamline network setup and ongoing maintenance. Administrators can apply consistent policies across multiple ports and devices, reducing configuration errors and improving operational consistency. Monitoring capabilities provide visibility into network performance, enabling proactive identification of potential issues.

Scalability Through Consistent Feature Sets

The consistent feature set across the Catalyst CE500 series enables scalable network design. Organizations can deploy multiple switches within this category and manage them using similar configuration approaches. This scalability supports business growth and simplifies network expansion without requiring significant changes to management practices.

Hardware Reliability and Build Quality

Reliability is a defining trait of the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category, reflecting Cisco’s long-standing reputation for durable networking hardware. The switches are engineered to operate continuously in demanding business environments, providing stable connectivity for mission-critical applications. High-quality components and rigorous testing contribute to long operational lifespans.

Thermal Design and Continuous Operation

The category incorporates thermal management designs that support sustained operation under varying environmental conditions. Efficient airflow and component placement help maintain optimal operating temperatures, reducing the risk of performance degradation or hardware failure. This focus on thermal stability is essential for installations in wiring closets and other confined spaces.

Consistency for Business-Critical Networks

By prioritizing hardware consistency and reliability, the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category ensures predictable network behavior. This consistency minimizes downtime and supports business continuity, making the category suitable for organizations that rely heavily on uninterrupted network access for daily operations.

Deployment Scenarios and Industry Applications

The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category is versatile, supporting a wide range of deployment scenarios across different industries. From office environments and retail locations to educational institutions and healthcare facilities, this category addresses the need for dependable Ethernet switching with integrated power and security features.

Small and Medium Business Network Infrastructure

For small and medium-sized businesses, this category provides an optimal balance between functionality and cost. The 24-port configuration supports typical SMB device counts, while PoE capabilities enable modern workplace technologies. The result is a streamlined network infrastructure that supports productivity and collaboration.

Branch Office and Distributed Enterprise Use

In distributed enterprise environments, the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category serves as a reliable access layer switch for branch offices. Consistent feature sets and Cisco ecosystem compatibility enable seamless integration with centralized network management strategies, supporting unified policies across geographically dispersed locations.

Long-Term Value Within the Ethernet Switch Category

The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC Catalyst 24 Ports Ethernet Switch category delivers long-term value by combining performance, security, and manageability within a single platform. Organizations investing in this category benefit from reduced operational complexity, enhanced network reliability, and the ability to support evolving connectivity requirements over time.

Alignment With Evolving Network Demands

As networks continue to evolve to support increased device counts and diverse applications, the features embedded within this category ensure continued relevance. The emphasis on PoE, VLAN segmentation, and traffic prioritization positions the Cisco WS-CE500-24PC category as a stable foundation for future network enhancements.

Enterprise Standards in a Compact Switching Category

By adhering to enterprise networking standards within a compact and accessible form factor, this category bridges the gap between basic switching and advanced enterprise solutions. The Cisco WS-CE500-24PC exemplifies how this category delivers professional-grade networking capabilities tailored to organizations seeking dependable and scalable Ethernet switching solutions.