SRW208-K9-NA Cisco SF300-08 8-Port Managed Switch

Cisco SRW208-K9-NA Managed Fast Ethernet Switch Overview

The Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 is a compact yet capable managed switch engineered for reliable Fast Ethernet connectivity. Designed for small business networks, branch offices, and structured IT environments, this switch delivers consistent performance, flexible management, and essential Layer 2 features.

Product Identification and Classification

• Brand: Cisco
• Model / SKU: SRW208-K9-NA
• Device Type: Network Switch
• Port Configuration: 8-Port Managed Switch

Port Configuration and Connectivity Options

Fast Ethernet Interface Details

• Equipped with 8 RJ-45 Fast Ethernet ports
• Supports 10/100Base-TX network standards
• Dedicated management port for administrative access
• Optimized for wired LAN environments requiring dependable data flow

Switching Performance and Network Architecture

Layer Support and Traffic Handling

• Operates at OSI Layer 2 for efficient packet forwarding
• Designed to handle business-class network traffic with stability
• Fast Ethernet technology ensures balanced speed and cost efficiency

Advanced Management and Monitoring Capabilities

Supported Management Protocols

• Web-based access via HTTP and HTTPS
• Remote configuration using Telnet and CLI
• Automatic IP assignment through DHCP
• Event tracking and logging with Syslog
• Network visibility using RMON

SNMP and VLAN Features

• Compatible with SNMP v1, v2c, and v3
• Supports VLAN segmentation for enhanced network control
• Simplifies monitoring, troubleshooting, and policy enforcement

Quality of Service and Traffic Prioritization

Optimized Data Delivery

• Integrated Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms
• Prioritizes latency-sensitive applications such as voice and video
• Improves overall network responsiveness and user experience

Memory and Internal Resources

• System Memory: 128 MB RAM for smooth operations
• Flash Storage: 16 MB for firmware and configuration files

Power Requirements and Electrical Specifications

Flexible Power Input

• Supports 110V AC and 220V AC input voltage
• Powered via an integrated internal power supply
• Suitable for global deployment scenarios

Physical Design and Installation Options

Form Factor and Dimensions

• Convertible desktop or rack-mountable design
• Height: 1.5 inches
• Width: 11 inches
• Depth: 6.7 inches
• Lightweight build at approximately 2.56 lbs

Ideal Use Cases for Cisco SRW208-K9-NA

• Small to medium business networks
• Branch offices and departmental LANs
• Managed Fast Ethernet deployments
• Environments requiring secure and configurable switching

Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 8 Port Ethernet Switch Category

The Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 8-Port 10/100 Managed Switch belongs to the Cisco Small Business SF300 Series, a category specifically designed to deliver enterprise-class network management, security, and reliability for small to medium-sized business environments. This category of managed Fast Ethernet switches focuses on providing stable wired connectivity, advanced traffic control, and secure network segmentation without the complexity or cost typically associated with large-scale enterprise switching platforms. Within this segment, the SF300-08 stands out as a compact yet powerful solution that balances simplicity, performance, and administrative control, making it suitable for offices, retail spaces, educational institutions, and distributed branch deployments.

This category emphasizes managed Layer 2 and basic Layer 3 capabilities, enabling network administrators to define VLANs, prioritize critical applications, and monitor traffic patterns with precision. The Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 switch integrates seamlessly into structured cabling environments and supports legacy Fast Ethernet infrastructures while still delivering modern management features. As part of Cisco’s Small Business portfolio, this switch category benefits from Cisco’s networking heritage, offering predictable performance, long-term reliability, and consistent firmware support.

Positioning of the SF300-08 Within Cisco Small Business Switching Solutions

The SF300-08 managed switch category is positioned between unmanaged desktop switches and high-capacity enterprise access switches. It addresses the needs of organizations that require more than simple plug-and-play connectivity but do not need full Layer 3 routing or gigabit speeds on every port. This positioning makes the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA particularly relevant for businesses upgrading from unmanaged switches or hubs and seeking greater visibility and control over their networks.

Within the Cisco Small Business lineup, the SF300 series complements higher-performance SG300 and SG350 Gigabit switches by offering Fast Ethernet connectivity with advanced management. This category is ideal where bandwidth requirements are moderate, such as voice deployments, point-of-sale systems, IP cameras, and office productivity applications. The SF300-08 form factor also supports space-constrained installations, reinforcing its role as a flexible access-layer switch.

Fast Ethernet Switching for Cost-Efficient Network Expansion

The Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 category focuses on Fast Ethernet technology to provide reliable 10/100 Mbps connectivity. Fast Ethernet remains relevant in environments where devices do not require gigabit speeds, allowing organizations to optimize costs while maintaining dependable performance. This category supports consistent throughput for everyday applications such as file sharing, email, and VoIP, ensuring predictable network behavior.

By concentrating on Fast Ethernet, this switch category reduces power consumption and heat output compared to higher-speed alternatives. This makes the SF300-08 particularly suitable for small offices with limited cooling infrastructure or for deployments where energy efficiency is a priority. The managed nature of the switch ensures that bandwidth is allocated intelligently, minimizing congestion and maintaining quality of service.

Managed Switching Capabilities and Administrative Control

A defining characteristic of the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 category is its comprehensive managed feature set. Unlike unmanaged switches, this category allows administrators to configure, monitor, and optimize network behavior through intuitive management interfaces. The SF300-08 supports both web-based management and command-line interface access, offering flexibility for administrators with varying levels of expertise.

Management features in this category include port configuration, VLAN assignment, traffic monitoring, and diagnostic tools. These capabilities empower organizations to maintain network stability, quickly identify issues, and enforce policies that align with business requirements. The ability to manage the switch centrally also reduces operational overhead and improves long-term scalability.

Virtual LAN Support for Network Segmentation

VLAN functionality is a core aspect of the SF300-08 managed switch category. VLANs enable logical separation of network traffic, improving security and performance by isolating different types of data flows. In small business environments, VLANs can be used to separate voice traffic from data, restrict guest access, or segment departments for compliance and management purposes.

The Cisco SRW208-K9-NA allows administrators to define and manage multiple VLANs across its eight ports, ensuring efficient traffic handling even in compact deployments. This category’s VLAN support simplifies network design while delivering benefits traditionally associated with larger enterprise networks.

Quality of Service for Application Prioritization

Quality of Service features are integral to the SF300-08 category, enabling prioritization of latency-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video conferencing. By classifying and prioritizing traffic, the switch ensures that critical communications maintain clarity and responsiveness even during periods of high network utilization.

This managed switch category supports multiple QoS mechanisms, including port-based and class-based prioritization. These features help maintain consistent user experiences and prevent less critical traffic from overwhelming essential services.

Security Features Embedded in the SF300-08 Category

Security is a fundamental consideration in the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 managed switch category. As networks increasingly connect critical business systems, protecting data integrity and preventing unauthorized access become essential. This category incorporates a range of security mechanisms designed to safeguard network resources without adding excessive complexity.

Port security features allow administrators to restrict which devices can connect to the network, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, management access controls ensure that only authorized personnel can modify switch configurations. These security features make the SF300-08 category suitable for environments that handle sensitive data or require controlled network access.

Access Control and Authentication Support

The SF300-08 category supports access control lists and authentication mechanisms that enhance network security. These features allow administrators to define policies governing which devices and users can access specific network resources. By implementing these controls at the switch level, organizations can reduce reliance on external security appliances and simplify their overall network architecture.

Authentication capabilities in this category contribute to compliance with internal security policies and industry standards. They also provide an additional layer of defense against internal threats and misconfigurations.

Reliability and Performance Consistency

Reliability is a hallmark of Cisco networking products, and the SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 category is no exception. Designed for continuous operation, this managed switch category emphasizes stable performance, predictable behavior, and robust hardware construction. These qualities are particularly important for small businesses that depend on constant network availability to support daily operations.

The SF300-08 switch category incorporates features such as loop detection, storm control, and spanning tree protocols to maintain network stability. These mechanisms help prevent network disruptions caused by misconfigurations or faulty connections, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.

Traffic Management and Network Optimization

Traffic management capabilities in the SF300-08 category allow administrators to monitor and optimize network performance. Built-in monitoring tools provide visibility into port utilization and traffic patterns, enabling proactive management and capacity planning. This level of insight helps organizations maintain efficient network operations and anticipate future needs.

By combining traffic monitoring with QoS and VLAN features, the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA category delivers a balanced approach to performance optimization. This ensures that network resources are used effectively while maintaining consistent service levels.

Compact Design and Deployment Flexibility

The physical design of the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 category reflects its intended use in small and distributed environments. The compact form factor allows for flexible placement on desktops, shelves, or within small network enclosures. This makes the switch suitable for locations where space is limited or where traditional rack-mounted equipment is impractical.

Despite its small size, the SF300-08 category does not compromise on functionality. It delivers enterprise-grade management features in a streamlined package, enabling organizations to deploy advanced networking capabilities without extensive infrastructure changes.

Energy Efficiency and Operational Benefits

Energy efficiency is another important aspect of this managed switch category. By optimizing power consumption and supporting energy-efficient Ethernet standards, the SF300-08 helps reduce operational costs and environmental impact. This makes it an attractive option for organizations seeking sustainable IT solutions.

Lower power consumption also contributes to reduced heat generation, improving reliability and extending the lifespan of the switch. These operational benefits reinforce the value proposition of the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 category.

Use Cases and Industry Applications

The Cisco SRW208-K9-NA SF300-08 managed switch category is well-suited to a wide range of use cases across various industries. In office environments, it provides dependable connectivity for workstations, printers, and IP phones. In retail settings, it supports point-of-sale systems and inventory management devices with consistent performance.

Educational institutions can leverage this category to connect classrooms and administrative offices while maintaining network segmentation and security. Healthcare facilities and professional services firms also benefit from the SF300-08 category’s reliability and management features, which support compliance and data protection requirements.

Scalability Within Small Business Networks

Although designed for small deployments, the SF300-08 category supports scalability through features such as VLAN trunking and link aggregation. These capabilities allow organizations to expand their networks incrementally while maintaining centralized management and consistent policies.

As businesses grow, the Cisco SRW208-K9-NA category can integrate seamlessly with additional switches and network devices, preserving investment and simplifying upgrades. This scalability ensures that the SF300-08 remains relevant throughout different stages of organizational growth.