C6800IA-48FPDR Cisco Catalyst POE+ Switch SFP+ Manageable

Enterprise-Class Instant Access Switching Architecture

The Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR Catalyst Instant Access switch is engineered to simplify campus and enterprise network deployments by combining high port density, centralized control, and advanced Layer 2 capabilities. Designed for rack-mounted installations in space-conscious environments, this 1U form factor switch delivers dependable access-layer connectivity while seamlessly integrating into larger Catalyst infrastructures.

General Information

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: C6800IA-48FPDR
• Product Line: Catalyst
• Product Series: 6800IA
• Product Type: Ethernet Switch

Technical Information

• Number of Ports: 48
• Uplink Port: Yes
• Management Port: Yes
• USB Ports: Yes
• PoE (RJ-45) Ports: 24
• PoE+ (RJ-45) Ports: 24
• Layer: 2
• Manageable: Yes
• Mean Time Between Failures: 230,860 Hours

Port and Expansion Slot Details

• 10 Gigabit Ethernet Uplink Ports: 2
• Gigabit Ethernet Network Ports: 48

Media and Performance

• Supported Media: Twisted Pair
• Cable Standard: Category 5

Ethernet Technology

• Supported Technologies: 10 Gigabit Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet
• Network Technologies: 10/100/1000Base-T, 10GBase-X

I/O Expansions

Expansion Slots

• Total Slots: 2
• Slot Type: SFP+
• Number of SFP+ Slots: 2

Memory Details

• Standard Memory: 512 MB
• Memory Technology: DRAM
• Flash Memory: 128 MB

Power Supply

• Input Voltage Options: 230 V AC, 120 V AC
• Power Source: Power Supply
• Redundant Power Supply Supported: Yes

 Enterprise-Class Architecture of the Cisco Catalyst   Switch

The Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR Catalyst Instant Access 48-Ports SFP+ Ethernet switch represents a high-performance access-layer solution engineered to extend the capabilities of the Cisco Catalyst 6800 Series into distributed enterprise environments. This model is designed to operate as part of the Instant Access architecture, allowing organizations to centralize control, simplify network management, and maintain consistent policy enforcement across geographically dispersed access points. Built to meet the needs of modern enterprises, data-intensive applications, and scalable campus networks, this switch delivers exceptional throughput, resilience, and operational efficiency.

Instant Access Technology and Centralized Control

At the core of the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR is Cisco’s Instant Access technology, which enables the switch to function as a remote line card of a centralized Catalyst 6800 chassis. This architectural approach allows administrators to manage access switches from a single control plane, reducing operational overhead while enhancing network consistency. By eliminating the need for local control planes at each access layer location, enterprises can streamline configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoring tasks.

Single Point of Management Across Distributed Networks

The Instant Access design integrates seamlessly with centralized supervisors, allowing network policies, security rules, and quality of service configurations to be deployed uniformly. This approach ensures predictable behavior across all connected endpoints while reducing the complexity traditionally associated with distributed access-layer deployments. Network teams benefit from reduced configuration drift, faster provisioning times, and simplified software updates.

Operational Efficiency and Reduced Administrative Overhead

By consolidating control and management functions, the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR enables IT teams to manage large-scale networks with fewer resources. Routine tasks such as VLAN configuration, access control list updates, and port-level policy enforcement can be handled centrally, minimizing the risk of human error and improving overall network reliability.

High-Density 48-Port SFP+ Connectivity 

The switch features forty-eight SFP+ ports designed to support high-speed Ethernet connectivity for demanding enterprise environments. These ports provide flexibility for fiber-based connections, making the switch suitable for large campuses, data centers, and aggregation points where high bandwidth and long-distance connectivity are essential.

Support for High-Speed Ethernet Standards

The SFP+ interfaces enable support for 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections, ensuring sufficient bandwidth for applications such as unified communications, high-definition video streaming, virtualization, and cloud-based workloads. This capability allows organizations to future-proof their access layer while accommodating increasing data traffic demands.

Flexible Fiber Connectivity Options

The use of SFP+ transceivers provides flexibility in selecting fiber types and distances, enabling deployment in diverse physical environments. Whether connecting buildings across a campus or linking remote access points to a centralized core, the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR adapts to varying infrastructure requirements without compromising performance.

Optimized for Aggregation and Access Layer Integration

The high port density and robust throughput of the switch make it well suited for aggregation roles in enterprise networks. It can seamlessly integrate with core and distribution layers, ensuring smooth traffic flow and minimizing bottlenecks during peak usage periods.

Performance, Throughput, and Reliability Characteristics

Designed for mission-critical environments, the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its hardware architecture supports high forwarding rates and low latency, ensuring responsive network performance even under heavy traffic loads.

Advanced Switching Fabric and Low Latency

The internal switching fabric is engineered to handle high volumes of concurrent traffic while maintaining consistent throughput. This design ensures that latency-sensitive applications such as voice over IP and real-time collaboration tools perform reliably across the network.

Redundancy and High Availability Features

To support continuous operation, the switch incorporates features that enhance network resilience. When deployed as part of a Catalyst 6800 Instant Access system, it benefits from centralized redundancy mechanisms that reduce the impact of hardware or link failures. This architecture helps maintain uptime and protects business-critical operations.

Predictable Performance for Enterprise Workloads

The consistent forwarding behavior and deterministic performance characteristics of the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR make it an ideal choice for enterprises that require predictable network behavior. This reliability is particularly valuable in environments with strict service-level agreements and performance expectations.

Security Capabilities and Policy Enforcement

Security is a fundamental consideration in the design of the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR Catalyst Instant Access switch. The platform supports a comprehensive set of security features that help protect the network from unauthorized access, threats, and data breaches.

Integrated Access Control and Authentication Support

The switch supports advanced authentication mechanisms, enabling organizations to enforce user- and device-based access policies. These capabilities help ensure that only authorized endpoints can connect to the network, reducing the risk of internal and external threats.

Centralized Policy Management and Visibility

By leveraging centralized control, security policies can be defined and enforced consistently across all connected access switches. This approach provides improved visibility into network activity and simplifies compliance with organizational security standards.

Protection for Modern Enterprise Environments

The Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR is well suited for environments that require strong segmentation, traffic monitoring, and threat mitigation. Its security capabilities align with modern enterprise requirements, supporting a layered defense strategy without sacrificing performance.

Deployment Flexibility and Use Case Scenarios

The Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR Catalyst Instant Access switch is designed to support a wide range of deployment scenarios, making it a versatile choice for modern enterprises.

Campus Networks and Distributed Access Layers

In large campus environments, the switch enables centralized management of multiple access locations, simplifying operations and reducing the need for on-site IT resources. Its fiber-based connectivity supports long-distance links between buildings while maintaining high performance.

Data-Intensive and High-Bandwidth Applications

Organizations that rely on data-intensive applications benefit from the high throughput and low latency provided by the SFP+ ports. The switch supports demanding workloads without compromising reliability or user experience.

Integration with Existing Cisco Infrastructure

The Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR integrates seamlessly with existing Cisco Catalyst platforms, allowing organizations to extend their networks without disruptive changes. This compatibility protects existing investments while enabling future expansion.

Scalability and Long-Term Investment Value

The design philosophy behind the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR emphasizes scalability and long-term value. Its architecture supports network growth while maintaining consistent performance and manageability.

Support for Expanding User and Device Counts

As enterprises adopt new technologies and expand their digital footprint, the switch provides the capacity and flexibility needed to accommodate additional users and devices.

Future-Ready Networking Capabilities

The high-speed SFP+ interfaces and centralized management model position the Cisco C6800IA-48FPDR as a future-ready solution capable of supporting evolving networking standards and application demands.

Optimized Total Cost of Ownership

By reducing operational complexity and simplifying management, the switch contributes to a lower total cost of ownership over its lifecycle. Organizations benefit from reduced administrative effort, improved uptime, and efficient use of network resources.