C1-WS3850-24U/K9 Cisco ONE Catalyst 3850 24 Ports Network Switch

Overview of Cisco C1-WS3850-24U/K9 3850 Series Switch 

The Cisco C1-WS3850-24U/K9 ONE Catalyst 3850 is a highly versatile network switch designed to deliver high-performance connectivity for modern enterprise networks. Part of the renowned Catalyst 3850 series, this 24-port switch combines scalability, security, and advanced features to support demanding network environments. Ideal for medium to large businesses, it ensures robust and reliable network performance, supporting critical applications, data transfers, and unified communication systems.

Key Features of the Catalyst 3850 24-Port Switch

24 Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Offers high-speed connectivity for multiple devices, ensuring seamless data transfer across the network.
StackWise-480 Technology: Enables flexible stacking of up to nine switches, simplifying network management and expansion.
Advanced Security Features: Provides network segmentation, access control lists, and enhanced threat protection for enterprise-grade security.
Power over Ethernet (PoE+): Supports PoE+ on multiple ports, allowing devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras to be powered directly through the switch.
Energy-Efficient Design: Incorporates Cisco’s EnergyWise technology to reduce power consumption while maintaining high performance.

Performance and Scalability

The C1-WS3850-24U/K9 ONE switch is engineered for high performance, capable of handling large volumes of data with minimal latency. Its 24-port configuration provides optimal connectivity for office networks, server rooms, and branch offices. With support for stacking via StackWise-480, network administrators can expand the network seamlessly, allowing up to nine switches to operate as a single unit. This scalability ensures that the switch grows alongside organizational demands, maintaining consistent performance across the network.

Advanced Routing and Switching Capabilities

This Catalyst 3850 switch offers advanced Layer 3 routing capabilities, including support for static routing, RIP, OSPF, and EIGRP. These features enable efficient traffic management and optimized routing paths, reducing network congestion and improving response times. Furthermore, the switch supports dynamic segmentation, ensuring that different departments or VLANs can operate securely and independently within the same network infrastructure.

Comprehensive Security and Threat Mitigation

Security is a critical aspect of any enterprise network, and the Cisco C1-WS3850-24U/K9 ONE Catalyst 3850 excels in this area. The switch includes advanced security protocols such as 802.1X authentication, dynamic ARP inspection, and IP source guard. These features protect against unauthorized access, spoofing attacks, and other network threats. Additionally, the device supports Cisco TrustSec technology, providing role-based access control and encrypted traffic, ensuring sensitive information remains secure.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Organizations today require energy-efficient solutions to reduce operational costs and support sustainability initiatives. The Catalyst 3850 24-port switch incorporates Cisco EnergyWise technology, which monitors power usage and optimizes energy consumption. PoE+ efficiency further reduces the need for external power supplies for connected devices, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. Its fan and power supply design allow for quiet, efficient operation, ideal for office environments.

Deployment Scenarios and Applications

Enterprise Network Integration

The C1-WS3850-24U/K9 ONE Catalyst 3850 is ideal for enterprise network deployments where reliable and fast connectivity is critical. Its 24 ports allow seamless integration with servers, desktops, and access points, providing uninterrupted service for business operations. The switch supports high-availability features, such as redundant power supplies and stackable configurations, ensuring minimal downtime during maintenance or network expansion.

Branch Office Networks

Branch offices often require network equipment that can handle multiple users and devices while maintaining high security. The Catalyst 3850 24-port switch offers an ideal solution, providing the necessary bandwidth and PoE+ support to power IP phones, surveillance cameras, and wireless access points without additional infrastructure. Its compact design fits neatly into standard racks, making it suitable for limited-space environments.

Data Centers and Server Farms

In data center environments, reliable and high-speed connectivity is essential. The Cisco Catalyst 3850 switch supports advanced Layer 3 routing and Quality of Service (QoS) features, enabling efficient traffic management for server farms and storage networks. The switch’s ability to operate in stacked configurations allows network administrators to manage multiple devices as a single unit, simplifying network monitoring and configuration.

Education and Healthcare Applications

Educational institutions and healthcare facilities require robust networks to support large numbers of devices, high-speed internet access, and secure data transmission. The Catalyst 3850 24-port switch delivers the necessary performance for these environments. Its PoE+ capability enables wireless access points and IP-based security cameras to be powered directly from the switch, reducing installation complexity and cabling requirements. Advanced security features ensure sensitive student or patient information is protected against unauthorized access.

Software Features and Management

Cisco IOS XE Operating System

The switch operates on Cisco IOS XE, a powerful and flexible operating system that supports automation, programmability, and secure management. IOS XE enables seamless integration with Cisco DNA Center, providing centralized management, monitoring, and analytics. Network administrators can use the software to configure VLANs, monitor traffic, and implement policy-based security rules efficiently.

Network Automation and Programmability

Modern enterprise networks benefit from automation, and the Catalyst 3850 supports programmability through APIs and scripting. Administrators can automate repetitive tasks such as port configuration, firmware upgrades, and security policy enforcement. This reduces operational complexity, improves accuracy, and ensures consistent network performance.

Monitoring and Analytics

With Cisco’s built-in monitoring tools, the switch offers real-time analytics on network health, traffic patterns, and device performance. Features like NetFlow, SNMP, and Syslog provide detailed insights into network usage, enabling proactive troubleshooting and performance optimization. Network managers can identify bottlenecks, prevent downtime, and plan for future network expansions effectively.

Hardware Specifications and Design

Port Configuration and Connectivity

The Cisco C1-WS3850-24U/K9 ONE Catalyst 3850 features 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing extensive connectivity for desktops, servers, IP phones, and wireless access points. Uplink options include 4x 1G or 10G SFP+ ports, allowing for high-speed connections to core switches or other network devices. This flexibility ensures the switch can adapt to various network topologies and traffic demands.

Stacking and Redundancy

StackWise-480 technology allows multiple Catalyst 3850 switches to be stacked, forming a single logical unit with unified management. Each stack member benefits from redundancy, providing continuous network availability even if one switch fails. This capability ensures minimal disruption and enhances overall network reliability, which is crucial for mission-critical applications.

Compact and Robust Design

The switch’s physical design is compact, fitting into standard 1U rack spaces, and its robust metal chassis ensures durability for long-term deployment. Internal cooling fans are designed to maintain optimal operating temperatures while minimizing noise, making the switch suitable for both data centers and office environments. Its low-profile footprint allows efficient use of rack space while providing all necessary connectivity options.

Comparison with Other Cisco Catalyst Models

Catalyst 2960 vs. 3850 Series

Compared to the older Catalyst 2960 series, the 3850 offers enhanced performance, advanced Layer 3 routing, and higher PoE+ capacity. While the 2960 series is suitable for basic connectivity, the 3850 series provides enterprise-grade features such as stacking, advanced security, and software programmability, making it a more future-proof choice for growing organizations.

Catalyst 3650 vs. 3850 Series

While both the 3650 and 3850 series offer Layer 3 capabilities and stacking support, the 3850 provides higher scalability with StackWise-480, improved throughput, and enhanced QoS features. The 3850 also supports the latest Cisco IOS XE software, enabling integration with Cisco DNA Center for centralized network management and automation.

PoE+ Enabled Catalyst 3850 Switches

Power over Ethernet Advantages

PoE+ enabled switches, including the C1-WS3850-24U/K9 ONE, allow network devices to receive both data and electrical power through a single Ethernet cable. This simplifies deployment of IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras without requiring separate power sources. PoE+ also supports higher wattage devices, enabling more energy-intensive equipment to operate efficiently.

Optimized Deployment for Wireless Access Points

With the increasing demand for wireless connectivity in enterprises, the Catalyst 3850 switch with PoE+ capability ensures access points can be strategically deployed without extensive cabling. This reduces installation costs, simplifies maintenance, and ensures reliable wireless coverage throughout the facility.

Integration with Surveillance Systems

Security cameras and monitoring systems can be powered directly by the switch, reducing the need for additional electrical infrastructure. The switch’s PoE+ capability ensures sufficient power delivery to high-definition cameras, enabling 24/7 monitoring with minimal operational disruption.