SM-X-ES3D-48-P Cisco Managed Switch 48 Ports Ethernet Service Module

Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P Managed Ethernet Switch Module

The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P is a high-density Ethernet service module designed to extend switching capabilities within compatible Cisco Integrated Services Routers. Built for enterprise-grade networking, this module delivers reliable Gigabit performance, advanced traffic control, and centralized management.

General Product Attributes

• Brand: Cisco
• Model Identifier: SM-X-ES3D-48-P
• Hardware Category: Ethernet Switch Module
• Port Density: 48 Network Ports

Network Architecture and Ethernet Technology

High-Speed Gigabit Connectivity

Engineered with Gigabit Ethernet support, this switch module enables fast and consistent data transmission across connected devices, ensuring smooth operation for bandwidth-intensive applications.

Supported Cabling and Media

• Twisted Pair Ethernet cabling
• RJ-45 copper interfaces

Port Configuration and Expansion Capabilities

Integrated Ethernet Ports

The module offers forty-eight RJ-45 10/100/1000Base-T interfaces with PoE+ support, allowing power and data delivery over a single cable for IP phones, wireless access points, and other networked devices.

Uplink and Expansion Options

• Total Expansion Slots: 2
• Expansion Interface Type: SFP (mini-GBIC)
• Flexible uplink choices for fiber or additional networking requirements

Performance and Data Throughput

Optimized Switching Performance

With support for 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet, the Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P ensures efficient packet handling and dependable throughput across all ports.

Maximum Data Transfer Rate

• Up to 1 Gbps per port using Gigabit Ethernet standards

Physical Design and Form Factor

Compact and Efficient Build

Designed to fit seamlessly into supported router platforms, the module maintains a compact footprint without sacrificing port density.

• Height: 1.6 inches
• Width: 16.2 inches
• Depth: 8.1 inches
• Approximate Weight: 4.59 lbs

Router Compatibility and Integration

Supported Cisco Integrated Services Routers

The SM-X-ES3D-48-P integrates smoothly with select Cisco ISR platforms, enabling scalable switching directly within the routing environment.

• Cisco 4451-X Series
• Cisco 2900 Series
• Cisco 3900 Series

Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P 48 Ports Service Module Ethernet Managed Switch Overview

The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P 48 Ports Service Module Ethernet Managed Switch belongs to a specialized category of modular Ethernet switching solutions designed for Cisco Integrated Services Routers. This category focuses on high-density, managed Ethernet service modules that seamlessly extend Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities directly into routing platforms. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P is engineered to support enterprise branch offices, distributed networks, and scalable infrastructure environments where space efficiency, centralized management, and consistent network policy enforcement are critical requirements.

Service module Ethernet switches in this category are purpose-built to integrate routing, switching, power delivery, and advanced network services within a single chassis. By leveraging Cisco’s modular architecture, the SM-X-ES3D-48-P provides organizations with the ability to deploy enterprise-grade switching without adding standalone access switches, reducing both operational complexity and hardware footprint. This approach aligns with modern network design principles that emphasize convergence, flexibility, and simplified lifecycle management.

Category Focus on Modular Ethernet Service Switching

The Ethernet managed switch service module category addresses scenarios where traditional fixed-form-factor switches are not optimal. These modules are designed to be installed directly into supported Cisco ISR platforms, transforming the router into a multifunction network node capable of handling access layer switching tasks. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P exemplifies this category by offering forty-eight Ethernet ports combined with advanced switching intelligence, allowing network architects to deploy high port density within a compact and modular form.

This category emphasizes adaptability, enabling enterprises to scale network capacity by adding or replacing service modules rather than deploying entirely new devices. The modular design also ensures long-term investment protection, as organizations can upgrade individual components to meet evolving bandwidth, security, and power requirements. Cisco’s service module Ethernet switches are particularly valuable in branch, campus, and remote office environments where efficient use of rack space and power is essential.

High-Density Port Architecture

A defining characteristic of the Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category is its high-density port configuration. Forty-eight Ethernet ports allow multiple endpoints, such as IP phones, wireless access points, security cameras, and workstations, to be connected directly through the service module. This density supports modern workplaces that rely on numerous network-connected devices, including IoT endpoints and collaboration systems.

High port density within a service module reduces the need for additional access switches, simplifying network topologies and minimizing cabling complexity. This design supports cleaner deployments and easier maintenance, particularly in branch offices where rack space may be limited. The category’s emphasis on density also contributes to cost efficiency by consolidating switching functions into fewer physical components.

Managed Switching Capabilities

Managed Ethernet service modules like the Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P provide comprehensive control over network traffic and device connectivity. This category supports advanced management features that allow administrators to configure VLANs, enforce quality of service policies, and monitor network performance. Managed capabilities are essential for maintaining reliability, security, and predictable application behavior across enterprise networks.

Centralized management through Cisco IOS XE ensures consistent configuration and policy enforcement across routing and switching components. This tight integration simplifies administration and reduces the learning curve for IT teams, as the same management framework governs both routing and switching functions. The category’s managed nature distinguishes it from unmanaged or lightly managed switching solutions that lack enterprise-grade visibility and control.

Power over Ethernet Support in Service Module Switches

The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category includes Power over Ethernet capabilities, enabling the delivery of electrical power alongside data over standard Ethernet cabling. This functionality is critical for supporting IP-based devices that require power, such as VoIP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance equipment. PoE support reduces the need for separate power adapters and electrical outlets, streamlining deployments and lowering installation costs.

Service module Ethernet switches with PoE are particularly advantageous in branch and remote office environments, where simplifying infrastructure can significantly improve deployment speed and reliability. By integrating PoE directly into the router chassis, the category enables centralized power management and monitoring, enhancing operational efficiency and device uptime.

Optimized for Enterprise Access Layer Deployments

The category is designed with the enterprise access layer in mind, where reliable connectivity and power delivery are essential. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P supports a wide range of endpoint devices, ensuring compatibility with modern enterprise networking requirements. This makes it suitable for offices transitioning to unified communications, wireless-first strategies, and IoT-enabled operations.

Access layer optimization includes features such as traffic prioritization and segmentation, which help maintain application performance even during periods of high network utilization. The category’s focus on access layer excellence ensures that user experience remains consistent and predictable across distributed network environments.

Layer 2 and Layer 3 Switching Features

Ethernet managed service modules in this category deliver robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionality. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P supports advanced switching features that allow networks to scale while maintaining performance and reliability. Layer 2 capabilities enable efficient local traffic switching, while Layer 3 features support inter-VLAN routing and enhanced network segmentation.

This combination allows organizations to design flexible network architectures that can adapt to changing business requirements. By integrating Layer 3 switching into the service module, the category reduces dependency on external devices for routing between VLANs, improving latency and simplifying network design.

Support for Advanced Network Segmentation

Network segmentation is a key requirement in modern enterprise environments, driven by security, compliance, and performance considerations. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category supports segmentation through VLANs and routing capabilities that allow administrators to isolate traffic between different user groups and applications.

Effective segmentation helps protect sensitive data, limit the impact of network issues, and optimize resource utilization. Service module switches provide the flexibility to implement segmentation policies directly at the access layer, enhancing overall network resilience.

Quality of Service and Traffic Optimization

Quality of Service features are integral to this category, ensuring that critical applications receive priority over less time-sensitive traffic. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P supports traffic classification and prioritization mechanisms that help maintain voice and video quality, even in congested network conditions.

Traffic optimization capabilities are essential for enterprises relying on real-time communication tools and cloud-based applications. By managing traffic flows at the access layer, the category contributes to a consistent and high-quality user experience.

Integration with Cisco Integrated Services Routers

The defining advantage of the Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category is its seamless integration with Cisco Integrated Services Routers. This integration transforms the router into a comprehensive network platform capable of handling routing, switching, security, and application services. The service module approach reduces the number of standalone devices required, simplifying network architecture and management.

Integration also enables unified policy enforcement and monitoring across the network. Administrators can manage routing and switching functions through a single interface, reducing operational overhead and improving visibility. This tight coupling between router and switch functions enhances overall network efficiency and reliability.

Branch Office and Distributed Network Benefits

Branch offices and distributed networks benefit significantly from the service module Ethernet switch category. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P allows organizations to deploy enterprise-grade switching capabilities in locations where space, power, and budget constraints may limit traditional deployments. By consolidating functions into a single chassis, the category supports scalable and cost-effective branch networking.

Distributed networks also benefit from consistent configurations and centralized management, which reduce the risk of misconfiguration and simplify troubleshooting. The service module approach ensures that branch networks align with corporate standards while remaining adaptable to local requirements.

Scalability and Future-Ready Design

The category emphasizes scalability to accommodate growing network demands. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P supports modular expansion, allowing organizations to increase port capacity or upgrade capabilities as needs evolve. This scalability ensures that network infrastructure can adapt to increased device counts, higher bandwidth requirements, and new technologies.

Future-ready design principles include support for modern networking standards and integration with Cisco’s broader ecosystem of management and automation tools. The category is designed to align with long-term network strategies, protecting investments and reducing the need for frequent hardware replacements.

Operational Efficiency and Simplified Management

Operational efficiency is a core focus of the Ethernet managed service module category. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P enables centralized configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting, reducing the time and effort required to manage network infrastructure. This efficiency is particularly valuable for organizations with limited IT resources or geographically dispersed networks.

Simplified management also contributes to improved network reliability, as consistent configurations reduce the likelihood of errors. The category supports automation and policy-based management approaches that further enhance operational effectiveness.

Reliability and Enterprise-Grade Performance

Reliability is a key attribute of the Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category. Designed for enterprise environments, these service modules deliver consistent performance under demanding conditions. High-quality components and robust software ensure stable operation, even as network loads fluctuate.

Enterprise-grade performance includes support for high throughput, low latency, and predictable behavior, all of which are essential for mission-critical applications. The category’s focus on reliability makes it suitable for organizations that require continuous network availability.

Security Integration within the Switching Module

Security is an integral aspect of the Ethernet managed service module category. The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P supports security features that help protect the network at the access layer. Integration with router-based security services enables comprehensive protection against threats, ensuring that traffic is monitored and controlled from the point of entry.

Access layer security capabilities help prevent unauthorized access, mitigate attacks, and enforce compliance policies. By embedding security into the switching module, the category supports a defense-in-depth approach that strengthens overall network posture.

Use Case Alignment and Industry Applications

The Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category is well-suited for a wide range of industries and use cases. Enterprises, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and retail organizations benefit from the combination of high port density, PoE support, and integrated management. These environments often require reliable connectivity for numerous devices, making service module Ethernet switches an ideal solution.

Industry applications include office networking, unified communications deployments, wireless infrastructure expansion, and IoT connectivity. The category’s flexibility and performance enable it to support diverse operational requirements while maintaining a consistent network architecture.

Long-Term Value and Network Standardization

Long-term value is a defining characteristic of the Cisco SM-X-ES3D-48-P category. By integrating switching capabilities into existing routing platforms, organizations maximize the utility of their infrastructure investments. This approach supports network standardization, reducing complexity and improving interoperability across the enterprise.

Standardized network components simplify training, maintenance, and upgrades, contributing to lower total cost of ownership. The service module Ethernet switch category aligns with strategic goals of efficiency, scalability, and resilience, making it a cornerstone of modern enterprise networking.