C6800-8P10G-XL Cisco SFP+ 8-Port 10 Gigabit Ethernet Integrated Supervisor Engine

Snapshot of Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL Catalyst 6800 Series  

The Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL is a high-performance integrated supervisor engine designed for enterprise-grade data networks. This robust solution provides unmatched reliability and scalability for modern networking environments, supporting demanding applications with ease. Ideal for optical fiber networks, it ensures seamless high-speed data transmission.

General Specifications  

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: C6800-8P10G-XL
• Product Type: Integrated Supervisor Engine 

Technical Specifications  

• Switch Type: SFP+
• Ethernet Technology: 10 Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Standard: 10GBASE-X
• Total Expansion Slots: 8
• Supported Features: VLAN, Gigabit Ethernet, high-speed optical networking

Key Functional Attributes

• Supports gigabit Ethernet for reliable connectivity across multiple devices
• Advanced VLAN capabilities for efficient network segmentation and management
• Eight expansion slots to accommodate diverse modules and networking upgrades
• Optimized for SFP+ interfaces, enabling flexible 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections

Optimized for Enterprise Applications

• Seamless integration with high-bandwidth applications, including data centers and cloud services
• Enhanced reliability for mission-critical operations in large enterprises
• Support for advanced Ethernet standards to future-proof your networking environment
• Efficient handling of multiple VLANs for improved traffic management

Robust Ethernet and VLAN Capabilities

• Reliable and scalable performance for enterprise-grade networks
• Flexible SFP+ ports supporting multiple media types
• Eight expansion slots for enhanced adaptability and growth
• High-speed 10GBASE-X connectivity for critical data applications
• Comprehensive VLAN and Ethernet support for secure network segmentation

Overview of Cisco SFP+ 8-Port Catalyst Supervisor Engine

The Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL Catalyst 6800 SFP+ 8-Port 10 Gigabit Ethernet Integrated Supervisor Engine represents a pinnacle in high-performance enterprise networking solutions. Engineered to deliver superior scalability, reliability, and enhanced system integration, this supervisor engine is specifically designed for Catalyst 6800 Series switches. It offers unparalleled control and flexibility for large-scale network infrastructures, making it ideal for data centers, enterprise campuses, and mission-critical environments.

Advanced Architecture of the C6800-8P10G-XL

The architecture of the Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL is crafted to maximize network throughput while maintaining stability. It features an integrated 8-port 10 Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ interface that allows for high-speed data transmission across multiple nodes. The modular design ensures seamless integration with existing Catalyst 6800 switch chassis, while its advanced processing capabilities enable optimized data flow, reduced latency, and enhanced packet forwarding efficiency. The supervisor engine's multi-core CPU architecture facilitates parallel processing of control and data plane operations, thereby ensuring consistent performance even under high traffic loads.

Key Components and Functional Design

The C6800-8P10G-XL incorporates multiple critical components that collectively enhance network performance. Each 10 Gigabit SFP+ port is capable of auto-negotiation and supports a wide range of SFP+ transceivers, providing versatile connectivity options for fiber and copper-based networking. Redundant power inputs and integrated cooling mechanisms ensure system reliability, even in demanding operational conditions. The engine also integrates advanced buffering and packet scheduling algorithms that prioritize high-priority traffic and prevent congestion, thereby maintaining network stability.

Performance Metrics and Network Efficiency

Performance is a defining attribute of the Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL. With a forwarding capacity that scales according to the number of active ports, this supervisor engine can handle multi-terabit per second throughput, making it suitable for both aggregation and core layer deployments. The advanced QoS (Quality of Service) mechanisms allow administrators to assign bandwidth and prioritize latency-sensitive applications, such as VoIP, video conferencing, and real-time analytics. Additionally, energy-efficient design elements ensure reduced power consumption without compromising operational performance, aligning with modern green IT initiatives.

Scalability and Integration Capabilities

The Catalyst 6800 series, coupled with the C6800-8P10G-XL supervisor engine, provides unmatched scalability for enterprise networks. It supports stacking and high-availability configurations, allowing businesses to expand network capacity without major hardware overhauls. The integrated supervisor engine seamlessly synchronizes with additional Catalyst 6800 switches, enabling centralized management and automated configuration replication across multiple devices. This high level of integration reduces operational complexity and minimizes the risk of configuration errors.

Security Features and Network Protection

Security is a core focus in the design of the Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL. The supervisor engine supports Cisco TrustSec technology, enabling policy-based access control and segmentation across enterprise networks. Advanced intrusion prevention, secure management protocols, and encrypted communication channels help safeguard sensitive data from external threats and internal vulnerabilities. In addition, the supervisor engine allows for real-time monitoring and logging of traffic patterns, providing administrators with actionable insights into potential security breaches and network anomalies.

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) Compatibility

The C6800-8P10G-XL is fully compatible with Cisco's Software-Defined Networking solutions. Integration with Cisco DNA Center and other SDN platforms allows administrators to automate network policies, deploy virtualized services, and monitor network performance in real time. The engine supports advanced programmability via APIs, enabling network engineers to customize traffic management and automate routine tasks. This level of automation reduces operational overhead, accelerates deployment cycles, and enhances overall network agility.

Reliability and Redundancy Features

Ensuring uninterrupted network service is a critical requirement for enterprise-grade networking equipment. The Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL incorporates multiple redundancy mechanisms to achieve high availability. Dual supervisor engine support allows for hot-swappable replacements, minimizing downtime during maintenance. The system supports stateful failover, ensuring session continuity and maintaining active traffic flows during supervisor engine replacement or software upgrades. Additionally, integrated monitoring tools continuously assess system health, proactively identifying potential failures before they impact network performance.

Compatibility with Catalyst 6800 Switch Models

The C6800-8P10G-XL is optimized for use with the Catalyst 6800 Series chassis, including the 6807-XL and other high-capacity models. Compatibility extends to multiple line cards, allowing organizations to deploy a combination of 1G, 10G, and higher-speed uplinks depending on their specific requirements. This flexibility ensures that enterprises can scale their networks incrementally without requiring a full replacement of existing infrastructure, resulting in cost-effective upgrades and extended equipment lifecycle.

Deployment in Enterprise Environments

In enterprise settings, the C6800-8P10G-XL plays a pivotal role in aggregation and core layers of campus networks. Its high-density 10 Gigabit ports enable efficient interconnection of access layer switches, servers, and storage networks. The supervisor engine’s advanced routing and switching capabilities, coupled with its integrated SFP+ interfaces, facilitate seamless connectivity between data centers, branch offices, and cloud environments. Network administrators can leverage its performance to deliver high-speed access to critical business applications while maintaining low latency and high reliability.

Enhanced Network Monitoring and Analytics

Advanced monitoring and analytics capabilities are intrinsic to the C6800-8P10G-XL. Through Cisco’s telemetry and monitoring tools, network administrators gain real-time insights into traffic patterns, port utilization, and system health. The integrated engine supports NetFlow, sFlow, and other monitoring protocols, enabling detailed visibility into network behavior. Predictive analytics allow for proactive maintenance and performance optimization, ensuring that potential bottlenecks or failures are addressed before impacting business operations.

Integration with Multilayer Switching and Routing

The supervisor engine supports multilayer switching, combining Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities in a single chassis. This allows organizations to implement advanced routing protocols, including OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP, while maintaining high-speed switching for local traffic. The integrated design ensures that routing and switching tasks are processed efficiently, reducing latency and improving overall network performance. Enterprises can deploy the C6800-8P10G-XL to manage both internal campus traffic and external WAN connections seamlessly.

Future-Proof Networking with Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL

The Cisco C6800-8P10G-XL is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern enterprise networks. With support for emerging protocols, high-speed connectivity, and programmable interfaces, it provides a future-proof solution for organizations anticipating growth in data traffic and network complexity. The engine’s modularity and backward compatibility with Catalyst 6800 Series switches ensure a smooth upgrade path, allowing enterprises to adopt new technologies without disrupting existing infrastructure.

Advanced Virtualization and Cloud Connectivity

Virtualization is increasingly critical in data center and enterprise networks. The C6800-8P10G-XL supports virtualized network functions, enabling administrators to deploy multiple logical networks on a single physical infrastructure. This capability is essential for cloud connectivity, multi-tenant environments, and software-defined data centers. The supervisor engine integrates seamlessly with virtualized workloads, providing high-performance connectivity and ensuring consistent quality of service across both physical and virtual network domains.

Comprehensive Management and Automation

Managing a high-performance network requires sophisticated tools and automation capabilities. The C6800-8P10G-XL is fully compatible with Cisco Prime Infrastructure, Cisco DNA Center, and other network management solutions. These platforms provide centralized visibility, policy enforcement, and automation of routine tasks such as firmware updates, configuration backups, and network audits. Automation reduces human error, accelerates deployment timelines, and ensures that network policies are consistently applied across the enterprise.

Use Cases and Industry Applications

The C6800-8P10G-XL Catalyst 6800 SFP+ 8-Port 10 Gigabit Ethernet Integrated Supervisor Engine is ideal for a wide range of applications. In large enterprise campuses, it serves as a robust core or distribution layer switch, managing high-speed connections between access switches, servers, and storage networks. In data center environments, the supervisor engine facilitates aggregation and high-density 10 Gigabit connectivity, supporting virtualization, cloud applications, and storage area networks (SANs). Industries such as finance, healthcare, education, and government benefit from its performance, security, and reliability, ensuring seamless and secure data transmission across critical applications.

Optimizing Enterprise Network Performance

Deploying the C6800-8P10G-XL allows organizations to optimize overall network performance. Its integrated switching, routing, and QoS capabilities ensure efficient use of network resources. Real-time monitoring and analytics support proactive maintenance and rapid troubleshooting, minimizing downtime and enhancing end-user experience. The high-density 10 Gigabit interfaces accommodate growing bandwidth demands, ensuring that network infrastructure can support future growth and emerging technologies without degradation of service.