MS120-48-HW Cisco Meraki Cloud Managed Switch 48 Ports

Cisco MS120-48-HW Meraki Cloud-Managed Switch Overview

Product Highlights

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model Number: MS120-48-HW
• Product Type: Managed Switch
• Port Configuration: 48 Gigabit Ethernet Ports (PoE) + 4 Gigabit SFP Ports
• Ideal for Enterprise Networks and SMBs

Key Features of the Cisco MS120-48-HW

Superior Performance and Efficiency

• Switching Capacity: 104 Gbps
• Forwarding Rate: 77.38 Million Packets per Second (Mpps)
• Designed for high-traffic environments, ensuring minimal latency and optimal throughput.

Port Configuration

• 48 Gigabit Ethernet Ports with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, for powering devices directly from the switch.
• 4 Gigabit SFP Ports for uplink flexibility and long-distance fiber connectivity.

Technical Specifications

Device Type

• Managed Switch
• Rack-mountable (1U) for efficient space utilization in data centers or server rooms.

Enclosure & Installation

• Mounting Type: Rack-mountable, 1U height for easy integration into existing server racks.
• Suitable for cloud-managed networking with advanced configuration options.

Cisco MS120-48-HW Meraki 48 Ports Cloud Managed Switch

The Cisco MS120-48-HW Meraki Cloud Managed Switch 48 Ports represents a leading solution in modern network infrastructure, offering seamless cloud management and high-performance connectivity. Designed to meet the demands of contemporary enterprise environments, this switch delivers superior reliability, scalable performance, and simplified management for IT administrators. With its 48 ports, the MS120-48-HW provides robust connectivity options, making it ideal for medium to large-scale network deployments where efficiency and centralized control are paramount.

Advanced Cloud Management Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Cisco MS120-48-HW is its Meraki cloud management platform. This technology allows network administrators to monitor, configure, and troubleshoot the switch remotely through a centralized dashboard. The cloud-based management system provides real-time visibility into network traffic, device performance, and security events. It enables IT teams to deploy updates, enforce policies, and perform diagnostics without requiring on-site intervention, significantly reducing operational complexity and maintenance costs.

Scalability and Network Flexibility

The Cisco MS120-48-HW supports scalable network expansion with ease. Its 48 high-speed ports are capable of handling a wide range of network devices, including IP phones, wireless access points, and servers. The switch is designed to grow with the organization, allowing seamless integration with additional Meraki switches or other network infrastructure. With support for Layer 2 switching, the MS120-48-HW provides efficient local traffic management, VLAN segmentation, and link aggregation, ensuring that network resources are optimally utilized.

Performance and Reliability

Performance is a critical consideration for any network deployment, and the MS120-48-HW excels in this area. Each port supports high-speed data transfer, minimizing latency and ensuring smooth communication between devices. The switch is engineered for reliability, featuring redundant power supply options, advanced QoS settings, and automatic failover mechanisms. These features ensure that business-critical applications remain operational even during periods of high traffic or unexpected hardware issues.

Security and Network Protection

Security is deeply integrated into the design of the Cisco MS120-48-HW. The Meraki platform allows administrators to configure access controls, monitor suspicious activity, and segment network traffic to protect sensitive data. The switch supports 802.1X authentication, enabling secure user access and preventing unauthorized device connections. Additionally, features such as MAC-based port security, dynamic VLAN assignment, and policy enforcement provide comprehensive protection against internal and external threats, making it suitable for enterprises with stringent security requirements.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

In addition to its performance and security capabilities, the Cisco MS120-48-HW emphasizes energy efficiency. The switch is designed with advanced power management features that optimize energy consumption without compromising network performance. This includes intelligent power allocation for connected devices, such as PoE (Power over Ethernet) devices, which ensures efficient delivery of power to devices like VoIP phones and access points. By reducing unnecessary energy usage, organizations can lower operational costs while promoting sustainable IT practices.

Deployment and Configuration Simplicity

The MS120-48-HW is engineered for ease of deployment. IT teams can rapidly provision the switch using the Meraki dashboard, which offers a guided configuration process and pre-defined templates for common network setups. This reduces deployment time and minimizes the potential for configuration errors. The switch supports zero-touch provisioning, allowing new devices to be automatically recognized and configured when connected to the network. This feature is particularly advantageous for organizations with multiple remote offices or distributed environments.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

As part of the broader Cisco Meraki ecosystem, the MS120-48-HW integrates seamlessly with other Meraki devices, including wireless access points, security appliances, and endpoint management solutions. This integration enables unified network management, where administrators can monitor and control the entire network from a single interface. Advanced analytics tools within the Meraki dashboard provide insights into traffic patterns, application usage, and client behavior, allowing for data-driven network optimization and planning.

Use Cases in Enterprise Environments

The Cisco MS120-48-HW is particularly suitable for enterprise and educational environments where large-scale, reliable network connectivity is essential. In corporate offices, the switch facilitates high-speed communication between workstations, servers, and cloud applications, supporting seamless collaboration and productivity. Educational institutions benefit from its ability to manage large numbers of devices, including computers, tablets, and smart classroom equipment, while maintaining strict security controls and network segmentation. Retail and hospitality sectors also leverage the MS120-48-HW to support point-of-sale systems, guest Wi-Fi networks, and surveillance infrastructure.

Technical Specifications and Features

Equipped with 48 full Gigabit Ethernet ports, the MS120-48-HW supports advanced switching capabilities such as Layer 2 and limited Layer 3 functions. It features PoE+ support for powering connected devices, making it a versatile solution for modern network needs. The switch includes robust QoS capabilities, ensuring bandwidth prioritization for critical applications like voice and video. With support for Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), the switch delivers redundancy and high availability, reducing network downtime and ensuring business continuity.

Support and Maintenance

Cisco provides comprehensive support for the MS120-48-HW, including access to firmware updates, technical assistance, and detailed documentation. The cloud-managed architecture simplifies maintenance, as updates can be deployed remotely without service interruptions. Additionally, the Meraki support portal offers troubleshooting guides, knowledge base articles, and community forums, assisting IT teams in maximizing the performance and longevity of the switch. Proactive monitoring and automated alerts ensure that potential issues are addressed before they impact business operations.

Comparative Advantages in the Market

The Cisco MS120-48-HW stands out in the market for its combination of cloud-managed simplicity, scalability, and enterprise-grade features. Compared to traditional switches, it reduces administrative overhead through centralized management and automation. Its energy-efficient design, robust security capabilities, and seamless integration with the broader Cisco ecosystem provide significant advantages for organizations seeking a future-proof networking solution. The switch delivers a compelling balance of performance, reliability, and ease of use, making it a preferred choice for IT departments across various industries.