WS-C3650-8X24PD-S Cisco 24 Ports Managed Switch Gigabit Ethernet SFP+

Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S 48 Port Managed L3 Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S is a high-performance, managed Layer 3 Catalyst switch designed for enterprise networks requiring reliability, scalability, and advanced connectivity. This 24-port switch delivers exceptional speed and efficiency, supporting both Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections for versatile network integration.

Key Manufacturer Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number / SKU: WS-C3650-8X24PD-S
• Product Type: Switch
• Sub-Type: 24 Ports
• Product Line: Catalyst
• Product Series: 3650

Comprehensive Technical Specifications

Network Interfaces & Ports

• Total Network Ports: 24
• Uplink Capability: Yes, supports 10G uplinks
• Modular Design: Yes, fully stackable
• Stacking Ports: Included for scalable deployments
• Port Configuration:
  • 16 x Gigabit Ethernet Stack Ports
  • 8 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet Stack Ports
  • 2 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet Uplink Ports

Media Compatibility & Performance

• Supported Media Types: Optical Fiber, Twisted Pair
• Ethernet Technology: 10 Gigabit Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Standards: 1000Base-T, 10GBase-X

I/O Expansions

• Total Expansion Slots: 4
• Slot Type: SFP+
• Shared SFP Slot: Not supported
• Number of SFP+ Slots: 4

Network & Communication Capabilities

• Supported Network Layer: Layer 3 routing
• Manageability: Fully manageable for advanced network control

Power Specifications

• Power Source: External Power Supply
• Redundant Power Support: Yes, for continuous operation

Physical Dimensions & Form Factor

• Rack Compatibility: 1U rack-mountable
• Form Factor: Standard rack mount
• Height: 1.7 inches
• Width: 17.5 inches
• Depth: 19.1 inches
• Weight: Approximately 16.71 lb

Enterprise-Class Managed Layer 3 Catalyst Switching Architecture

The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S Managed Layer 3 Catalyst Switch with 24 Ports is positioned within the enterprise-grade switching category designed to support advanced networking requirements in modern business environments. This category focuses on high-performance access-layer and distribution-layer switching, integrating intelligent services that enable scalability, security, and simplified management. Cisco Catalyst switches are recognized globally for their reliability and consistency in delivering deterministic network performance, and the WS-C3650-8X24PD-S model exemplifies this design philosophy by combining hardware-based forwarding with sophisticated software intelligence.

Managed Layer 3 switches in this category are engineered to go beyond basic packet forwarding by supporting dynamic routing, inter-VLAN routing, and policy-based traffic control. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series introduces a converged wired and wireless access platform that allows enterprises to manage multiple network services through a unified infrastructure. This approach reduces complexity while enhancing visibility and control across the network fabric. The WS-C3650-8X24PD-S integrates seamlessly into this category by delivering advanced Layer 3 features suitable for mid-sized to large enterprise deployments.

Role of Layer 3 Switching in Enterprise Networks

Layer 3 switching plays a critical role in enterprise networks by combining the speed of switching with the intelligence of routing. In this category, switches like the Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S provide hardware-based routing that significantly reduces latency compared to traditional router-on-a-stick designs. This capability allows organizations to implement scalable VLAN architectures while maintaining high throughput and predictable performance.

The category emphasizes support for dynamic routing protocols and high-availability features that enable resilient network topologies. With Layer 3 capabilities embedded directly into the access and aggregation layers, network architects can design flatter network architectures that reduce hop counts and simplify traffic flows. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series is designed to address these needs while maintaining compatibility with existing Cisco network ecosystems.

24-Port High-Density Access Switching for Power and Performance

The 24-port configuration of the Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S places it firmly within the high-density access switching subcategory. This class of switches is optimized to support a wide range of connected devices including IP phones, wireless access points, surveillance cameras, and endpoint devices. By delivering consistent performance across all ports, this category ensures that critical business applications operate without interruption even under heavy network loads.

Access-layer switches in this category are designed to be the first point of contact between end devices and the enterprise network core. As such, they must deliver robust security, traffic prioritization, and power delivery capabilities. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 platform is built to meet these demands by integrating advanced QoS mechanisms and power management features that align with enterprise operational requirements.

Power over Ethernet Capabilities and Device Support

Power over Ethernet functionality is a defining characteristic of this switching category. The WS-C3650-8X24PD-S supports advanced PoE standards, enabling it to deliver power and data over a single Ethernet cable. This capability simplifies deployments by eliminating the need for separate power sources for connected devices, reducing installation costs and improving flexibility in device placement.

Within this category, PoE-enabled switches are essential for supporting converged networks where voice, video, and data coexist. The ability to power IP telephony systems, wireless access points, and security devices directly from the switch enhances network resilience and simplifies centralized power management. Cisco Catalyst switches are engineered to allocate power intelligently, ensuring that critical devices receive priority during peak demand or power budget constraints.

Intelligent Power Management and Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a core consideration in the enterprise switching category. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S incorporates intelligent power management features that monitor and optimize power usage across connected devices. This approach not only reduces operational costs but also supports organizational sustainability initiatives by minimizing unnecessary power consumption.

The category emphasizes support for Energy Efficient Ethernet and advanced power negotiation protocols that allow the switch to deliver only the power required by each device. This level of granularity ensures that the network operates efficiently without compromising performance or reliability.

Advanced Software Features and Cisco IOS Integration

The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series operates on Cisco IOS Software, placing it within a category of switches known for robust software-driven intelligence. Cisco IOS provides a comprehensive set of features that enable granular control over network behavior, security policies, and traffic management. The WS-C3650-8X24PD-S benefits from this software foundation by supporting a wide array of enterprise-grade functionalities.

Managed switches in this category are designed to support modular and extensible software capabilities. This allows organizations to adapt their networks as requirements evolve without replacing hardware. Cisco IOS supports advanced routing, switching, and security features that align with modern enterprise networking standards.

Dynamic Routing and Network Scalability

Scalability is a defining attribute of the Layer 3 managed switching category. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S supports dynamic routing protocols that enable efficient traffic flow across complex network topologies. These capabilities allow the switch to participate in routing decisions, reducing dependency on centralized routers and improving overall network performance.

By integrating routing intelligence at the access layer, this category supports scalable designs that can grow alongside organizational needs. The ability to implement inter-VLAN routing directly on the switch reduces latency and simplifies network architecture, making it easier to manage and troubleshoot.

High Availability and Redundancy Features

Enterprise networks demand high availability to ensure continuous operation of critical services. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series incorporates redundancy and resiliency features that align with this category’s focus on uptime and reliability. These features help maintain network connectivity during hardware failures or maintenance events.

Managed Layer 3 switches in this category support rapid convergence and failover mechanisms that minimize downtime. This ensures that users experience seamless connectivity even in the event of network disruptions.

Integrated Security for Access and Distribution Layers

Security is a cornerstone of the enterprise switching category, and the Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S is designed to enforce robust security policies at the network edge. By integrating security directly into the switching infrastructure, this category enables organizations to protect their networks from unauthorized access and internal threats.

Access-layer security features are particularly important because they represent the first line of defense against malicious activity. Cisco Catalyst switches provide a comprehensive security framework that includes authentication, authorization, and accounting mechanisms to ensure that only trusted devices and users gain access to network resources.

Network Segmentation and Policy Enforcement

Network segmentation is a critical strategy for improving security and performance in enterprise environments. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series supports advanced VLAN and routing configurations that allow organizations to segment traffic based on function, department, or security requirements. This capability reduces the attack surface and improves traffic management efficiency.

Policy enforcement at the switch level ensures that security rules are applied consistently across the network. This category emphasizes the importance of integrating policy-based controls directly into the switching fabric to provide real-time enforcement and visibility.

Secure Access and Device Authentication

Device authentication is an essential component of secure enterprise networks. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S supports industry-standard authentication mechanisms that verify the identity of connected devices before granting network access. This approach helps prevent unauthorized devices from compromising network integrity.

Within this category, secure access features are designed to scale across large deployments while maintaining centralized control. Cisco Catalyst switches integrate seamlessly with enterprise security frameworks, enabling consistent policy enforcement across wired and wireless environments.

Performance Optimization and Quality of Service

Performance optimization is a defining characteristic of the managed Layer 3 switch category. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S is engineered to deliver high throughput and low latency across all ports, ensuring that bandwidth-intensive applications perform reliably. This category prioritizes deterministic performance to support mission-critical business operations.

Quality of Service mechanisms are integral to this category, allowing administrators to prioritize traffic based on application requirements. By implementing QoS policies at the switch level, organizations can ensure that latency-sensitive applications such as voice and video receive the necessary bandwidth.

Traffic Prioritization and Application Awareness

Modern enterprise networks support a diverse range of applications with varying performance requirements. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series incorporates application-aware traffic management features that classify and prioritize traffic in real time. This capability ensures optimal performance for critical applications even during periods of congestion.

Within this category, application awareness enhances visibility and control, enabling administrators to make informed decisions about network resource allocation. This level of insight is essential for maintaining consistent user experiences across the enterprise.

Low Latency Switching and Hardware-Based Forwarding

Low latency is a key requirement for enterprise switching environments. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S utilizes hardware-based forwarding to deliver wire-speed performance across all ports. This design minimizes processing delays and ensures predictable performance under heavy traffic loads.

The category emphasizes the importance of combining hardware efficiency with software intelligence to achieve optimal performance. Cisco Catalyst switches exemplify this balance by delivering consistent throughput without sacrificing advanced feature support.

Unified Wired and Wireless Access Capabilities

The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series represents a category of switches designed for converged wired and wireless access. This unified approach simplifies network management by allowing administrators to control both wired and wireless devices from a single platform. The WS-C3650-8X24PD-S aligns with this category by supporting integrated wireless services alongside traditional switching functions.

Converged access switching reduces the complexity associated with managing separate wired and wireless infrastructures. By centralizing control and policy enforcement, organizations can achieve greater operational efficiency and improved network visibility.

Scalable Architecture for Modern Workplaces

Modern workplaces demand flexible and scalable network infrastructures that can adapt to changing requirements. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S is designed to support high device density and dynamic traffic patterns, making it well-suited for environments with growing wireless and IoT deployments.

This category emphasizes scalability and adaptability, ensuring that network investments remain viable as technology and business needs evolve. Cisco Catalyst switches are engineered to support future expansion without compromising performance or reliability.

Centralized Management and Operational Simplicity

Operational simplicity is a key objective in enterprise networking. The managed Layer 3 switch category focuses on providing centralized management tools that streamline configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series integrates with Cisco management platforms to deliver comprehensive visibility and control.

By simplifying day-to-day network operations, this category enables IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine maintenance. The WS-C3650-8X24PD-S supports this objective by combining powerful features with intuitive management capabilities.

Long-Term Reliability and Enterprise Deployment Value

Reliability and longevity are essential considerations for enterprise infrastructure investments. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-S is built to meet rigorous enterprise standards, ensuring consistent performance over extended deployment lifecycles. This category prioritizes hardware quality, software stability, and vendor support to deliver long-term value.

Organizations deploying switches within this category benefit from proven Cisco engineering and extensive ecosystem compatibility. The Catalyst 3650 Series continues to be a trusted choice for enterprises seeking dependable, feature-rich managed Layer 3 switching solutions that support evolving network demands.