WS-C3850-24XU-S Cisco Catalyst 3850 24-Port Managed Switch

Cisco Catalyst 3850 WS-C3850-24XU-S 24 Port Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-S is a high-performance enterprise-grade managed switch designed to support demanding network environments. Built within the Catalyst 3850 family, this Layer 3 switch delivers advanced routing intelligence, scalable performance, and reliable connectivity for modern business infrastructures.

Core Product Identification

• Brand: Cisco
• Series: Catalyst 3850
• Model Number: WS-C3850-24XU-S
• Product Category: Managed Network Switch
• Switch Classification: Layer 3

Port Architecture and Connectivity

High-Speed Port Configuration

This Catalyst switch is engineered with a fixed port layout optimized for bandwidth-intensive applications. Its non-modular construction ensures stable performance with simplified deployment.

• Total Ethernet Interfaces: 24 ports
• Port Type: 10 Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Standard: 10GBase-T
• Cabling Support: Twisted Pair

Enterprise Network Expansion Features

• Stackable design for scalable network growth
• Consistent throughput across all ports
• Ideal for aggregation and access layer deployments

Switching and Routing Capabilities

Advanced Layer 3 Intelligence

The WS-C3850-24XU-S supports full Layer 3 functionality, enabling dynamic routing, enhanced traffic management, and efficient data forwarding across complex network topologies.

Supported Networking Functions

• Layer 3 switching and routing
• Optimized data flow control
• Reliable communication for enterprise networks

Management and Control

Centralized Manageability

Designed for IT administrators, this Cisco managed switch offers robust configuration and monitoring capabilities, allowing precise control over network operations.

• Fully manageable switch platform
• Supports enterprise-grade network policies
• Simplified administration and diagnostics

Power and Reliability

Redundant Power Support

To enhance network uptime, the Catalyst 3850 WS-C3850-24XU-S supports redundant power supply configurations, ensuring continuous operation even during power disruptions.

• Primary power via internal power supply
• Redundant power capability for high availability

Physical Specifications and Installation

Rack-Mountable Form Factor

Built for standard data center and network closets, this switch fits seamlessly into existing rack infrastructures.

• Rack Unit Compatibility: 1U
• Mounting Style: Rack-mount
• Height: 1.8 inches
• Width: 17.7 inches
• Depth: 17.5 inches
• Weight: Approx. 17.60 lbs

Ideal Use Cases

• Enterprise campus networks
• High-speed data aggregation
• Virtualized and cloud-ready environments

Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series Managed Switching Architecture

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-S Catalyst 3850 Series 24 Ports Managed Switch belongs to an enterprise-grade switching category designed to unify wired and wireless access under a single, highly scalable, and intelligent platform. This category represents Cisco’s advanced access-layer switching solution, combining hardware-based performance with software-defined intelligence. Built on Cisco’s Unified Access Data Plane, the Catalyst 3850 Series introduces a converged network fabric where wired devices, wireless access points, and IoT endpoints are managed through a single operating system and policy framework. The switching architecture emphasizes high throughput, low latency, and deterministic performance, making it suitable for demanding enterprise environments that require consistent connectivity and predictable traffic handling.

The Catalyst 3850 managed switch category is positioned for organizations that require granular control, advanced security enforcement, and seamless integration with Cisco’s broader networking ecosystem. These switches support advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, enabling network segmentation, traffic prioritization, and dynamic routing capabilities. The WS-C3850-24XU-S variant, equipped with 24 multi-gigabit Ethernet ports, is engineered to support next-generation access devices such as high-performance wireless access points, IP phones, and bandwidth-intensive endpoints. This category is especially relevant for modern campus networks where device density and performance expectations continue to increase.

24-Port Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Design and Use Cases

The 24-port configuration in this Catalyst 3850 Series category addresses mid-sized access-layer deployments that require high port density without sacrificing performance. Each port supports multi-gigabit Ethernet speeds, enabling flexible connectivity options that extend beyond traditional 1 Gigabit limitations. This design ensures backward compatibility with legacy devices while also providing the bandwidth headroom required for modern applications, cloud-based services, and real-time collaboration tools. The category is particularly valuable in environments transitioning from older network infrastructure to high-speed access without a complete cabling overhaul.

Multi-gigabit support within this category allows organizations to maximize the lifespan of existing cabling while still achieving higher throughput. This is critical in enterprise campuses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and commercial buildings where recabling costs can be prohibitive. The Cisco WS-C3850-24XU-S fits seamlessly into these scenarios, providing consistent performance for data, voice, and video traffic. The managed nature of the switch ensures administrators can dynamically allocate bandwidth, apply quality of service policies, and monitor port-level performance in real time.

Power over Ethernet and Device Support Capabilities

Within the Catalyst 3850 Series category, integrated Power over Ethernet capabilities play a significant role in simplifying network deployments. The WS-C3850-24XU-S supports intelligent power delivery to connected devices, allowing access points, IP cameras, and VoIP phones to operate without separate power sources. This not only reduces infrastructure complexity but also enhances deployment flexibility. Network administrators can remotely manage power allocation, schedule device power cycles, and monitor consumption patterns directly through the switch management interface.

The category’s advanced PoE features support environments where high-power devices are common. This includes wireless access points that require additional power to deliver multi-gigabit wireless speeds and advanced features. By consolidating power and data over a single Ethernet connection, the Catalyst 3850 Series contributes to cleaner installations and improved operational efficiency across enterprise networks.

Advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 Switching Features

The Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series managed switch category is distinguished by its comprehensive set of Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities. These features enable the creation of resilient, scalable, and secure network topologies. Layer 2 functionalities such as VLAN segmentation, trunking, and spanning tree enhancements allow for efficient traffic separation and loop prevention. The category supports advanced spanning tree implementations that reduce convergence time and improve overall network stability.

At the Layer 3 level, the Catalyst 3850 Series provides dynamic routing capabilities that enhance network scalability and performance. This allows the WS-C3850-24XU-S to function not only as an access switch but also as a routing-capable device within the campus network. Inter-VLAN routing, policy-based routing, and advanced multicast support enable optimized traffic flows and improved application performance. These capabilities make the category suitable for enterprises that require flexible network design without introducing additional routing hardware.

Scalability Through Stacking Technology

A defining characteristic of the Catalyst 3850 Series category is its support for Cisco StackWise technology. This allows multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit, simplifying management and increasing scalability. When deployed in a stacked configuration, the WS-C3850-24XU-S can contribute to higher aggregate bandwidth and improved redundancy. This design ensures continuous network availability even in the event of individual switch failures.

Stacking enhances operational efficiency by allowing administrators to manage multiple physical switches through a single management plane. Configuration consistency, centralized monitoring, and simplified software updates are key advantages of this category. StackWise technology also improves resiliency by enabling rapid failover and load sharing across stack members.

Integrated Wireless Controller Functionality

The Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series category uniquely integrates wireless LAN controller functionality directly into the switch hardware. This convergence enables unified management of wired and wireless networks, reducing complexity and operational overhead. The WS-C3850-24XU-S can directly manage Cisco access points, enforcing consistent policies and security controls across all connected devices.

This integrated approach is particularly beneficial in environments where wireless connectivity is mission-critical. By eliminating the need for separate wireless controllers, the Catalyst 3850 Series reduces hardware costs and simplifies network architecture. Administrators gain centralized visibility into both wired and wireless traffic, enabling faster troubleshooting and more effective performance optimization.

Unified Policy Enforcement Across Access Layers

The managed switch category emphasizes policy-driven networking, allowing consistent enforcement of security and quality of service policies across all access methods. Whether a device connects via Ethernet or wireless, the same policies can be applied seamlessly. This capability supports modern security frameworks that rely on identity-based access control and dynamic segmentation.

Unified policy enforcement improves compliance and reduces the risk of misconfiguration. The Catalyst 3850 Series ensures that network access rules remain consistent as users move between wired desks and wireless spaces, maintaining a secure and predictable network environment.

Enterprise Security Features and Network Protection

Security is a core focus of the Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series managed switch category. The WS-C3850-24XU-S supports a wide range of security mechanisms designed to protect enterprise networks from internal and external threats. These include advanced access control lists, port security features, and integration with Cisco identity and policy services. Such capabilities allow administrators to define granular access rules based on user identity, device type, and application requirements.

The category also supports secure segmentation through VLANs and virtual routing instances, reducing the attack surface within the network. By isolating sensitive traffic and critical resources, the Catalyst 3850 Series enhances overall security posture. Continuous monitoring and logging features provide visibility into network activity, enabling rapid detection and response to potential threats.

Quality of Service and Application Optimization

Quality of Service functionality within this category ensures that critical applications receive the bandwidth and priority they require. The WS-C3850-24XU-S supports advanced traffic classification and queuing mechanisms that prioritize voice, video, and real-time collaboration traffic. This is essential in enterprise environments where application performance directly impacts productivity and user experience.

By integrating QoS at the access layer, the Catalyst 3850 Series helps maintain consistent application performance even during periods of high network utilization. Administrators can define policies that align with business priorities, ensuring that essential services remain responsive.

Operational Efficiency and Network Management

The Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series category is designed with operational efficiency in mind. Centralized management tools and intuitive interfaces simplify configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting tasks. The WS-C3850-24XU-S integrates seamlessly with Cisco management platforms, enabling automation and policy-based control across the network infrastructure.

This category supports extensive monitoring and telemetry capabilities, providing real-time insights into network performance and health. Administrators can proactively identify issues, optimize resource utilization, and plan for future capacity requirements. The result is a more agile and responsive network that can adapt to evolving business needs.

Software Features and Long-Term Value

The Catalyst 3850 Series benefits from Cisco’s ongoing software innovation, ensuring long-term value and feature enhancements. Regular software updates introduce new capabilities, security improvements, and performance optimizations. This ensures that the WS-C3850-24XU-S remains relevant in dynamic enterprise environments.

The managed switch category emphasizes investment protection through backward compatibility and support for emerging technologies. Organizations deploying the Catalyst 3850 Series gain a future-ready access-layer solution capable of supporting digital transformation initiatives and growing connectivity demands.