WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Cisco Catalyst Layer 3 Gigabit Ethernet Managed Switch with 8 Ports

Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Catalyst 8-Port Managed Switch

The Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is an advanced Layer 3 managed switch designed for modern enterprise networks. Built for versatility, it supports multiple installation options including desktop, rack-mount, DIN rail, and wall mounting, all within a compact 1U form factor. This switch is optimized for Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and provides robust Power over Ethernet (PoE+) support for connected devices.

Product Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model Number: WS-C2960CX-8PC-L
• Device Type: Managed Ethernet Switch
• Port Count: 8 x 10/100/1000 Mbps (PoE+) plus 2 x Combo SFP+
• Enclosure: Desktop, Rack-mountable, Din Rail, Wall-mountable
• PoE Budget: 124 W

Switching Capacity and VLAN Support

• Virtual Interfaces (VLANs): Up to 1023
• Jumbo Frame Support: Up to 9018 Bytes
• Routing Protocols: RIP-1, RIP-2, Static IP Routing

Advanced Remote Management

• SNMP Versions 1, 2c, and 3
• RMON 1, 2, 3, and 9
• Telnet and CLI access
• HTTP and TFTP for configuration and firmware updates

Enhanced Network Features

• BootP and ARP support for streamlined device connectivity
• VLAN, Multicast VLAN Registration (MVR), and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) support
• DHCP snooping and Access Control List (ACL) enforcement
• Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities with Shaped Round Robin (SRR) scheduling
• Fanless design for silent operation
• Remote Switch Port Analyzer (RSPAN) for monitoring traffic
• Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) for reduced power consumption
• Class of Service (CoS) and Weighted Tail Drop (WTD) support

Compliance with Industry Standards

• IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3z, 802.3ab, 802.3af, 802.3x, 802.3ad (LACP)
• IEEE 802.1d, 802.1q, 802.1p, 802.1w, 802.1s, 802.1x
• IEEE 802.3ah, 802.1ae, 802.1ab (LLDP), 802.3az
• IPv6-ready for next-generation network support

Power and Energy Efficiency

• Input Voltage: AC 120/230 V, 50/60 Hz
• PoE+ capability with 124 W budget to power connected devices
• Energy-efficient operation with fanless design to reduce noise and power consumption

Deployment Flexibility

• Small and medium-sized offices
• Branch office networks
• Industrial environments using DIN rail mounting
• Wall-mounted setups for space-constrained areas
• Desktop deployment for direct connectivity to endpoint devices

Security and Reliability Features

• DHCP Snooping and ACLs for controlled network access
• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid STP for loop prevention
• MAC address notification for network monitoring and management
• Remote monitoring with RMON for proactive issue detection

Optimized Performance for Enterprise Networks

• Advanced PoE+ for VoIP phones, IP cameras, and wireless access points
• Multicast VLAN Registration for streaming media applications
• Weighted Tail Drop (WTD) to maintain performance during network congestion

Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L Catalyst Series managed switch

The Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is a high-performance Layer 3 Gigabit Ethernet managed switch designed for modern enterprise networks. As part of the renowned Catalyst 2960-CX family, this switch offers a compact, fanless design suitable for environments requiring low-noise operation and high reliability. Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, branch offices, and specialized deployment scenarios, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L delivers advanced network features, robust security, and flexible connectivity to support dynamic workloads and evolving networking requirements.

Advanced Layer 3 Capabilities

Equipped with Layer 3 routing functionalities, the Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L enables inter-VLAN routing, static routing, and basic dynamic routing capabilities, ensuring efficient data transfer across multiple network segments. This allows enterprises to implement a scalable network architecture without relying solely on core routers, reducing latency and optimizing internal traffic management. The Layer 3 intelligence also supports enhanced Quality of Service (QoS), enabling prioritization of critical applications such as voice, video, and cloud-based services.

High-Speed Gigabit Ethernet Ports

This switch provides eight integrated Gigabit Ethernet ports, delivering consistent, high-speed connectivity for desktops, IP phones, wireless access points, and other critical network devices. Each port is capable of full-duplex operation, ensuring seamless data transmission and minimizing packet loss. The combination of eight robust ports and Layer 3 functionality makes this model ideal for small aggregation deployments or edge network segments where reliability and speed are essential.

Power over Ethernet (PoE+) Support

The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L supports full PoE+ capabilities across all ports, allowing network administrators to power devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points directly from the switch without requiring additional power adapters. With a total PoE budget optimized for small-scale deployments, the switch simplifies network design, reduces cabling complexity, and ensures devices remain operational during network expansion or reconfiguration.

Compact and Fanless Design

One of the standout features of the Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is its compact, fanless design, which reduces noise and energy consumption, making it suitable for office environments, retail locations, and other noise-sensitive areas. The small form factor allows for flexible deployment options, including desktop placement, wall mounting, or integration into small racks. This flexibility ensures that businesses can implement enterprise-grade switching without sacrificing space or aesthetic considerations.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

Cisco’s EnergyWise technology is integrated into the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L, enabling power monitoring and energy-efficient operation without compromising network performance. The switch dynamically adjusts power consumption based on connected devices and traffic levels, reducing overall energy costs and supporting sustainable IT initiatives. With compliance to stringent environmental standards, this switch is a reliable choice for organizations seeking both performance and eco-conscious network solutions.

Robust Security Features

The WS-C2960CX-8PC-L provides advanced security mechanisms to safeguard enterprise networks against unauthorized access and threats. Features such as IEEE 802.1X authentication, access control lists (ACLs), and secure management protocols ensure that sensitive data remains protected. The switch also supports Dynamic ARP Inspection and DHCP snooping to prevent common network attacks, while integration with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) enables centralized policy enforcement across the network.

Scalable Network Management

Administrators can manage the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L using Cisco’s industry-leading management tools, including Cisco Network Assistant and the command-line interface (CLI). The switch also supports Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and can integrate with Cisco DNA Center for centralized automation and analytics. This scalability in management allows IT teams to monitor performance, deploy updates, and troubleshoot issues efficiently, reducing operational overhead while maintaining optimal network performance.

Reliability and Redundancy

Designed for enterprise-grade reliability, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L supports redundant power options, link aggregation, and Spanning Tree Protocol enhancements to maintain uninterrupted connectivity. This ensures that mission-critical applications remain operational even in the event of partial network failures. Additionally, Cisco’s software-based resiliency features such as FlexStack and Hot Standby Router Protocol (HSRP) further enhance network uptime and minimize service disruptions.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

Being part of the Catalyst 2960-CX family, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L seamlessly integrates with other Cisco products, including access points, routers, and network security appliances. This integration allows businesses to implement a cohesive, end-to-end network architecture that is easy to manage, secure, and future-proof. Cisco’s consistent software platform ensures that IT teams can apply familiar configurations, updates, and policies across multiple devices, simplifying the deployment of advanced networking features.

Enhanced Application Performance

The switch’s intelligent traffic management capabilities, including advanced QoS and bandwidth control, optimize the performance of real-time applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud collaboration tools. By prioritizing critical traffic and minimizing congestion, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L supports smooth communication and operational efficiency, ensuring that business-critical services remain highly responsive.

Future-Ready Features

With support for IPv6, Software-Defined Access (SD-Access), and evolving network protocols, the WS-C2960CX-8PC-L provides businesses with a future-ready platform. IT teams can adapt to changing business requirements and technological advancements without the need for frequent hardware upgrades. This forward compatibility protects investment while enabling businesses to leverage next-generation networking solutions as they scale.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The Cisco WS-C2960CX-8PC-L is ideal for a variety of deployment scenarios. It can serve as an access switch in branch offices, providing reliable connectivity and PoE+ support for IP devices. It is also suitable for small aggregation networks, connecting multiple access switches to the core network with Layer 3 routing efficiency. Additionally, its compact, quiet design makes it suitable for classroom environments, healthcare facilities, or retail locations where discreet, high-performance networking is required.