WS-X4248-FE-SFP Cisco Catalyst 4500 Ethernet Switch 48 Ports

Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP Catalyst 4500 48-Port Ethernet Switch

The Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP is a high-performance 48-port Ethernet switch module designed for seamless network expansion within Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series environments. Engineered for robust connectivity and enhanced operational efficiency, this module delivers reliable Fast Ethernet performance across enterprise-grade networks.

Key Features and Highlights

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model Number: WS-X4248-FE-SFP
• Device Type: Ethernet Switch Module
• Line Series: Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series
• Port Configuration: 48 x SFP Ports supporting 100Base-X connectivity
• Form Factor: Plug-in Module for easy integration
• Optional Features: Flow control for improved network performance

Technical Specifications

• IEEE 802.3 for Ethernet
• IEEE 802.3x for full-duplex flow control
• IEEE 802.3ah for Ethernet in the first mile

Slot Compatibility and Expansion

• Compatible Cisco Catalyst models: 4503, 4506, 4507R
• Interface Type: 48 x SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) mini-GBIC slots

Enhanced Performance Features

• Flow Control for congestion management
• High-density 48-port SFP configuration for flexible connectivity
• Seamless integration with existing Catalyst 4500 Series deployments

Compliance and Certifications

• NEBS Level 3 certified for telecommunication-grade reliability
• FCC Class A certified to minimize interference
• Safety compliance: EN 60950, IEC 950, UL 1950
• Electromagnetic compatibility: VCCI Class A, EN55022 Class A, EN55024
• Additional standards: CSA 22.2 No. 950, FCC Part 15

Environmental Operating Conditions

• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C
• Relative Humidity: 10% to 90%

Compatibility and Integration

• Cisco Catalyst 4503
• Cisco Catalyst 4506
• Cisco Catalyst 4507R

Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP Catalyst 4500 Series Switch

The Cisco WS-X4248-FE-SFP Catalyst 4500 series switch offers high-performance connectivity for enterprise networks, delivering robust Layer 2 switching with the flexibility of 100Base-X SFP ports. Designed for data-intensive applications, this 48-port switch is ideal for campus core, distribution layers, and large-scale enterprise environments. It ensures seamless integration with existing network infrastructures, providing scalable solutions for growing organizations.

Key Features of Catalyst 4500 48 Ports Switch

This model emphasizes reliability and adaptability. The Catalyst 4500 series supports advanced network services, providing efficient handling of data traffic. Key features include high-density SFP uplinks, precise Quality of Service (QoS) control, and enhanced security measures. The WS-X4248-FE-SFP is optimized for applications requiring rapid data transfers and minimal latency.

High-Density 100Base-X SFP Connectivity

With 48 Fast Ethernet SFP ports, this switch facilitates flexible network design and supports fiber optic modules for long-distance communication. The modular design allows for easy expansion and upgrades, enabling IT administrators to meet evolving network requirements without significant hardware replacement. The 100Base-X standard ensures reliable transmission speeds suitable for voice, video, and data convergence.

Modular Architecture and Scalability

The WS-X4248-FE-SFP operates within the Cisco Catalyst 4500 modular chassis, supporting multiple line cards and redundant power supplies. This modularity allows organizations to scale their networks incrementally, reducing operational costs and downtime. The switch's architecture supports integration with other Catalyst 4500 series modules, creating a flexible and future-ready network environment.

Performance and Reliability

The Catalyst 4500 48-port switch ensures consistent network performance through advanced switching technologies. Its hardware and software combination delivers low latency and high throughput, critical for enterprise-grade applications. The device incorporates features like Cisco Express Forwarding (CEF) to optimize packet forwarding and reduce network congestion.

Enhanced Quality of Service (QoS)

Network administrators benefit from precise traffic management and prioritization using the WS-X4248-FE-SFP. QoS features allow the segregation of voice, video, and data traffic, ensuring mission-critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth. The switch supports multiple classes of service, enabling detailed traffic shaping and congestion avoidance strategies to maintain optimal network performance.

Security and Network Access Control

Security is integral to the Catalyst 4500 series. The WS-X4248-FE-SFP provides advanced access control lists (ACLs) and network security features, including authentication, encryption, and port security. Integration with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) allows centralized policy management and seamless enforcement of security policies across the network.

Redundancy and Fault Tolerance

This switch is engineered for continuous availability. Redundant supervisors, power supplies, and hot-swappable modules ensure minimal disruption during hardware failures or maintenance. High availability features such as stateful switchover and nonstop forwarding contribute to resilient network operations, making it suitable for mission-critical enterprise environments.

Layer 2 Switching and VLAN Support

The switch supports extensive Layer 2 functionalities, including VLAN segmentation, trunking, and inter-VLAN routing. VLAN support enhances network efficiency by isolating traffic and optimizing bandwidth allocation. The ability to configure multiple VLANs across the 48 ports simplifies network design and provides flexibility for enterprise environments.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

The Catalyst 4500 series incorporates energy-efficient features, reducing power consumption without compromising performance. Dynamic power management and intelligent fan control contribute to a lower operational footprint. This focus on energy efficiency aligns with corporate sustainability goals and reduces overall operational costs.

Compatibility and Interoperability

The WS-X4248-FE-SFP ensures seamless interoperability with other Cisco devices and network solutions. It supports a wide range of SFP transceivers, enabling connection with various media types, including fiber and copper. This flexibility allows organizations to integrate the switch into heterogeneous network environments while maintaining high performance.

Deployment Scenarios

The Catalyst 4500 48-port switch is suitable for multiple deployment scenarios. It is ideal for campus networks, data center edge distribution, and high-traffic enterprise networks. The modular design and high-density SFP ports make it suitable for aggregating access layer switches, providing connectivity for large numbers of end devices.

Enterprise Campus Networks

In campus environments, the WS-X4248-FE-SFP facilitates high-speed communication between departments and buildings. Its scalability ensures that expanding network requirements are met without overhauling existing infrastructure. The switch supports critical applications, including VoIP, video conferencing, and data-intensive workloads.

Data Center and Aggregation

As an aggregation switch in data centers, it consolidates traffic from multiple access switches, optimizing network performance. The Catalyst 4500's low-latency and high-throughput capabilities ensure reliable connectivity for server farms, storage networks, and high-performance computing environments.

Voice and Video Optimization

With advanced QoS and multicast support, the WS-X4248-FE-SFP is optimized for unified communications. Prioritization of voice and video traffic reduces jitter and latency, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication across enterprise networks. Integration with Cisco IP Telephony solutions further enhances collaboration efficiency.

Technical Specifications

The WS-X4248-FE-SFP features 48 Fast Ethernet SFP ports with modular uplink capabilities. It supports up to 64 VLANs per switch and provides robust Layer 2 switching functions. The switch's backplane architecture delivers sufficient bandwidth to handle high-volume traffic without congestion, making it suitable for demanding enterprise applications.

Port and Connectivity Details

The switch offers multiple SFP uplinks for fiber connections, supporting both short-range and long-range optics. Hot-swappable modules ensure network continuity during upgrades or replacements. Port mirroring and monitoring features allow administrators to analyze network traffic and troubleshoot efficiently.

Environmental and Physical Parameters

The WS-X4248-FE-SFP operates within standard temperature and humidity ranges suitable for enterprise network racks. It is designed for reliability and longevity, with components tested for consistent performance under typical data center conditions. The switch also meets Cisco environmental compliance standards.

Software and Feature Support

The switch runs Cisco IOS software, offering a rich set of networking features, including Spanning Tree Protocol, Rapid PVST+, EtherChannel, and multicast support. Integration with Cisco IOS Enhanced and IP Services licenses unlocks additional Layer 3 capabilities, further enhancing network versatility.

Upgrade and Expansion Options

The Catalyst 4500 WS-X4248-FE-SFP supports seamless upgrades with additional line cards and supervisors. Its modular architecture ensures investment protection, allowing organizations to scale bandwidth and connectivity options as network demands grow. Expansion options include additional SFP modules, higher-speed uplinks, and advanced software licenses for extended features.