4GK49 Dell Z9432f-on 32-Ports 400Gbe 1U Rack Mountable QSFP56-DD Hot-swappable Networking Switch

Overview of DELL 4GK49 32-Ports 400GbE Networking Switch

The DELL 4GK49 Z9432F-ON switch is a next-generation, high-performance data center networking solution engineered to meet the extreme bandwidth and scalability demands of modern enterprises, cloud providers, and high-performance computing environments. Built on Dell’s open networking architecture, this platform delivers exceptional throughput, flexibility, and reliability while supporting advanced networking standards.

General Information

• Manufacturer: Dell 
• Part Number: 4GK49 
• Product Type: Networking Switch

Technical Specifications

• Model: Z9432F-ON
• Total Ports: 32 x 400GbE QSFP56-DD
• Primary Port Quantity: 32 Ports
• Power over Ethernet (PoE): Not Supported
• Power Supply: Dual Redundant 1600W AC PSUs
• Chassis Type: 1U Rack Mountable
• Airflow: Standard (I/O to PSU)

Dual Hot-Swappable AC Power Supplies

• Includes 2 x 1600W AC redundant power supply units
• Hot-swappable design minimizes downtime during maintenance
• Supports continuous operation in critical networking scenarios
• Efficient power delivery for high-density 400GbE deployments

The Dell 4GK49 32-Ports 400Gbe 1U Rack Mountable Switch

The category of high-performance 400GbE data center switches is designed to support next-generation networking requirements across hyperscale data centers, enterprise core networks, cloud service providers, and AI-driven compute fabrics. Devices in this segment emphasize ultra-high port density, massive throughput, deterministic low latency, and flexible interoperability with modern optical and copper interconnects. The Dell 4GK49 Z9432F-ON networking switch represents a flagship example within this category, delivering advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities combined with open networking flexibility and enterprise-grade reliability.This category focuses on fixed-form-factor switches engineered to consolidate bandwidth-intensive workloads into compact rack units. With 32 high-speed ports supporting 400GbE connectivity via QSFP56-DD interfaces, such switches enable scalable spine-leaf architectures, lossless fabrics, and east-west traffic optimization. They are purpose-built for modern data center environments where power efficiency, airflow control, and operational resilience are equally critical.

Design and Form Factor

Networking switches in this category typically adopt a 1U rack-mountable chassis optimized for high port density without compromising airflow or thermal stability. The Dell Z9432F-ON exemplifies this architectural approach by integrating 32 QSFP56-DD ports within a single rack unit, enabling operators to achieve extremely high aggregate bandwidth while minimizing rack space consumption. This compact form factor supports streamlined cable management and simplified deployment within standardized data center racks.

Rack Mount Compatibility 

Rack compatibility is a defining trait of this category, with switches engineered for seamless integration into 19-inch data center racks. Sliding rails, removable mounting ears, and balanced weight distribution allow for rapid installation and servicing. The 1U height ensures that high-density networking can coexist alongside compute and storage infrastructure without imposing excessive spatial demands.Mechanical efficiency also extends to vibration resistance and port alignment accuracy, ensuring long-term reliability even in densely populated racks. These design considerations reduce the risk of fiber stress, connector wear, and signal degradation over time.

Open Networking with Dell OS10 Support

The DELL Z9432F-ON leverages Dell’s OS10 operating system, providing a flexible and open networking environment. This enables seamless integration with existing infrastructures while offering advanced automation, programmability, and monitoring capabilities.

Advanced 400GbE Switching Architecture

Designed to handle large-scale workloads, the Z9432F-ON offers a non-blocking switching fabric optimized for east-west traffic in spine-leaf architectures. With support for the latest 400 Gigabit Ethernet technologies, it ensures ultra-low latency and consistent performance across mission-critical applications.

Compact 1U Rack-Mountable Form Factor

Despite its powerful capabilities, the Z9432F-ON maintains a compact 1U chassis design. This space-efficient form factor allows organizations to maximize rack utilization without compromising on performance.

32-Port and 400GbE Connectivity Capabilities

At the core of this category is support for 400 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, a critical requirement for bandwidth-hungry applications such as AI/ML training clusters, high-performance computing, large-scale virtualization, and cloud-native microservices. The use of QSFP56-DD ports enables flexible breakout configurations, allowing a single 400GbE port to be subdivided into multiple lower-speed interfaces such as 2x200GbE or 4x100GbE, depending on network design needs.The Dell 4GK49 Z9432F-ON switch supports 32 such ports, delivering massive aggregate throughput suitable for spine-layer deployment in leaf-spine topologies. This level of port density simplifies network scaling by reducing the number of devices required to achieve target bandwidth, thereby lowering power consumption and operational complexity.

QSFP56-DD Interface Flexibility

QSFP56-DD technology is central to modern 400GbE deployments. It supports double-density electrical lanes compared to earlier QSFP generations, enabling higher speeds within the same physical footprint. Switches in this category are engineered to ensure signal integrity, electromagnetic compatibility, and broad transceiver support across single-mode and multi-mode optics.This flexibility allows operators to deploy a mix of short-reach, long-reach, and direct-attach cable solutions while maintaining consistent port behavior and performance characteristics. Compatibility with industry-standard transceivers ensures vendor-neutral expansion and investment protection.

Operating System and Open Networking Capabilities

A defining feature of this category is support for open networking operating systems. The Dell Z9432F-ON runs Dell OS10, an open, modular network operating system designed to provide flexibility, programmability, and automation. OS10 enables operators to deploy standardized network services while retaining the freedom to integrate third-party applications and management frameworks.Open networking capabilities allow these switches to function across diverse environments, from traditional enterprise networks to software-defined data centers. Support for APIs, automation tools, and orchestration platforms ensures seamless integration into modern DevOps workflows and network-as-code initiatives.

Layer 2 and Layer 3 Feature Sets

Switches in this category are engineered to deliver comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionality, supporting advanced routing, switching, and traffic management features. Common capabilities include VLAN segmentation, link aggregation, multicast routing, and high-speed forwarding tables designed to handle large-scale network topologies.Layer 3 support enables efficient IP routing, ECMP load balancing, and scalable fabric architectures. These features are essential for minimizing latency and maximizing throughput in distributed workloads.

Dual AC Power Design Benefits

Dual AC power configurations allow switches to be connected to separate power sources, enhancing resilience against upstream power issues. This design supports redundant power distribution units and aligns with Tier III and Tier IV data center standards.Energy-efficient components and adaptive power management help reduce operational costs while supporting sustainable data center initiatives.

Thermal Management and Airflow Optimization

Effective thermal management is essential for high-density 400GbE switches. This category emphasizes controlled airflow patterns, high-efficiency fans, and intelligent thermal monitoring. Standard airflow configurations ensure compatibility with existing data center cooling designs and simplify deployment planning.Advanced fan control algorithms adjust cooling performance based on real-time temperature readings, balancing noise levels, power consumption, and thermal stability.

Hot-Swappable Fan Modules

Hot-swappable fan modules are a common feature in this category, allowing maintenance without powering down the switch. This capability supports continuous operation and reduces mean time to repair.Fan redundancy ensures that airflow is maintained even if a single module fails, preserving hardware integrity and network uptime.