WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Cisco Catalyst 3650 Switch 48 Ports mGig, 2x10G Uplink, IP Base

Cisco Catalyst 3650 WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Overview

The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S is a feature-rich managed Layer 3 switch designed to support high-density access networks. Built for enterprise-grade performance, it delivers advanced routing, extensive PoE capabilities, and multi-gigabit Ethernet support in a compact 1U rack-mountable form factor.

Core Hardware Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cisco Systems
• Model Number: WS-C3650-12X48FD-S
• Product Category: Managed Network Switch
• Form Factor: 1U rack-mountable chassis
• Switching Architecture: Layer 3, stackable design

Port Configuration and Connectivity

Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Interfaces

• 36 × 10/100/1000Base-T RJ-45 PoE ports
• 12 × 100/1000/2.5G/5G/10GBase-T RJ-45 PoE ports
• Optimized for modern wireless access points and high-speed endpoints

High-Speed Uplink Options

• 2 × 10GBase-X SFP+ uplink ports
• Designed for fast aggregation and backbone connectivity

Management and Auxiliary Interfaces

• RJ-45 console port for direct CLI access
• USB Type-A and Mini-USB Type-B management ports
• Dedicated Gigabit Ethernet management LAN port

Power over Ethernet Capabilities

PoE Performance

• Integrated Power over Ethernet support
• Total PoE power budget of up to 660 W
• Ideal for IP phones, cameras, and wireless devices

Power Supply and Redundancy

• Internal hot-plug power supply included
• Supports up to 2 power supplies for redundancy
• Optional 1+1 power redundancy configuration
• Total power output capacity: 1100 W

Switching and Forwarding Performance

High Throughput Architecture

• Switching capacity of 272 Gbps
• Forwarding rate up to 202.38 Mpps
• Stacking bandwidth reaching 160 Gbps

Scalability and Network Capacity

Routing and VLAN Support

• IPv4 routing table capacity: 24,000 routes
• NetFlow entries supported: 24,000
• Up to 4,094 VLANs
• 1,000 Switched Virtual Interfaces (SVIs)

Advanced Routing Protocols

• Supports BGP-4, EIGRP for IPv6, and OSPFv3
• Includes RIP v1/v2, RIPng, IS-IS, and static routing
• Multicast routing with PIM-SM, PIM-DM, and PIM-SSM
• Policy-Based Routing (PBR) for traffic optimization

Physical Dimensions and Weight

Chassis Details

• Width: 17.5 inches
• Depth: 19.1 inches
• Height: 1.7 inches
• Net weight: 16.71 lbs

Electrical Requirements

• Input voltage: AC 120/230 V
• Frequency: 50/60 Hz
• Designed for enterprise and data center environments

Enterprise-Class Access Switching with Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series

The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch represents a powerful access-layer switching solution designed to meet the evolving requirements of modern enterprise networks. Positioned within the Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series, this model integrates advanced switching capabilities, multi-gigabit Ethernet support, and enterprise-grade reliability in a compact and efficient hardware design. As part of a category focused on scalable, secure, and performance-driven access switches, the Catalyst 3650 platform enables organizations to support increasing bandwidth demands, converged wired and wireless architectures, and advanced network services without compromising stability or manageability.

This category of switches is purpose-built for campus access deployments where high port density, flexible uplink options, and intelligent network control are critical. The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S model, with its 48 multi-gigabit Ethernet ports and integrated 10 Gigabit uplinks, fits seamlessly into enterprise access layer designs that require both backward compatibility and future readiness. By supporting Cisco IP Base feature sets, these switches deliver essential Layer 2 and basic Layer 3 capabilities that ensure efficient traffic management, enhanced security, and consistent user experiences across the network.

Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Architecture for High-Performance Access

One of the defining characteristics of the Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category is the inclusion of multi-gigabit Ethernet technology. Multi-gigabit Ethernet addresses the growing bandwidth needs of modern endpoints such as wireless access points, IP cameras, video conferencing systems, and high-performance workstations. By supporting speeds beyond traditional Gigabit Ethernet while using existing cabling infrastructure, this switch category allows organizations to maximize return on investment while preparing for bandwidth-intensive applications.

The 48 mGig ports in this model provide flexible connectivity options that adapt dynamically to connected devices. This capability is particularly valuable in enterprise campus environments where device requirements vary significantly. The switch intelligently negotiates optimal speeds to ensure stable and efficient communication, reducing bottlenecks and maintaining consistent performance across all connected endpoints. As a result, the Catalyst 3650 category is well-suited for organizations deploying next-generation wireless technologies that demand higher throughput at the access layer.

Optimized Support for Wireless-First Networks

The Cisco Catalyst 3650 Series was engineered with wireless integration as a core design principle. In environments where wireless connectivity is as critical as wired access, this switch category provides integrated support that simplifies deployment and management. The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S enables seamless integration with Cisco wireless architectures, allowing enterprises to centralize control and enhance visibility across both wired and wireless segments.

This convergence of wired and wireless networking ensures consistent policy enforcement, simplified troubleshooting, and improved quality of service for users regardless of their connection method. By aligning with Cisco’s unified access strategy, the Catalyst 3650 category delivers a cohesive network experience that reduces operational complexity while enhancing overall performance.

Integrated Uplink Flexibility with 10 Gigabit Connectivity

Uplink capacity plays a crucial role in access layer design, and the Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category addresses this need with integrated 10 Gigabit uplink interfaces. These uplinks provide high-speed connectivity to aggregation or core switches, ensuring that access layer traffic is efficiently transported without congestion. The availability of 10G uplinks allows organizations to design scalable network architectures capable of supporting increasing user densities and data-intensive applications.

This category of switches is particularly beneficial for enterprises seeking to future-proof their networks. As bandwidth demands continue to rise, the integrated uplink design minimizes the need for additional modules or hardware upgrades. This approach simplifies deployment planning and ensures long-term adaptability, making the Catalyst 3650 series a strategic investment for growing organizations.

High Availability and Redundancy Considerations

In enterprise environments where uptime is critical, the Cisco Catalyst 3650 category emphasizes reliability and resilience. The WS-C3650-12X48FD-S model is designed to operate consistently under demanding conditions, supporting features that enhance network availability. By integrating robust hardware components and intelligent software capabilities, this switch category minimizes downtime and ensures continuous access to essential network services.

High availability within this category is further supported by advanced traffic management and intelligent failover mechanisms. These capabilities allow the network to adapt dynamically to changes in traffic patterns or link status, maintaining optimal performance even during peak usage periods. As a result, organizations can rely on the Catalyst 3650 series to deliver dependable access layer connectivity.

IP Base Feature Set for Essential Layer 2 and Layer 3 Services

The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch is equipped with the IP Base software feature set, positioning it within a category that balances functionality and simplicity. IP Base provides a comprehensive set of Layer 2 and basic Layer 3 features that are essential for enterprise access layer deployments. These capabilities include advanced switching functions, intelligent traffic segmentation, and efficient routing support for common network topologies.

This feature set enables organizations to implement structured and secure network designs without the complexity associated with full Layer 3 routing platforms. By supporting essential routing protocols and network services, the Catalyst 3650 category ensures smooth inter-VLAN communication and efficient traffic flow across the enterprise. This balance of features makes it an ideal choice for access layer roles where performance and reliability are paramount.

Enhanced Network Security at the Access Layer

Security is a critical consideration in access layer switching, and the Cisco Catalyst 3650 category integrates advanced security mechanisms to protect network resources. The WS-C3650-12X48FD-S model supports features that enable organizations to enforce access control, monitor traffic behavior, and mitigate potential threats at the edge of the network.

By embedding security directly into the switching infrastructure, this category allows enterprises to implement proactive defense strategies without compromising performance. These capabilities help safeguard sensitive data, ensure compliance with organizational policies, and maintain trust in the network environment.

Scalability and Performance for Growing Enterprises

The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category is designed to scale alongside organizational growth. With high port density, flexible uplink options, and intelligent software features, these switches accommodate expanding user bases and evolving application requirements. This scalability ensures that enterprises can extend their networks without significant redesign or hardware replacement.

Performance optimization is central to this category’s value proposition. The Catalyst 3650 series leverages advanced switching architectures to deliver low latency, high throughput, and consistent performance across all ports. This focus on performance ensures that mission-critical applications receive the bandwidth and priority they require, even in high-demand environments.

Efficient Traffic Management and Quality of Service

Quality of Service plays a vital role in maintaining application performance, particularly in networks supporting voice, video, and real-time collaboration tools. The Cisco Catalyst 3650 category includes sophisticated traffic management capabilities that enable precise prioritization and bandwidth allocation. These features ensure that latency-sensitive applications maintain high quality while background traffic is efficiently managed.

By implementing intelligent QoS policies at the access layer, organizations can enhance user experiences and optimize network resource utilization. This capability is especially important in environments where diverse applications coexist and compete for bandwidth.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Network Design

Energy efficiency is an increasingly important consideration in enterprise IT infrastructure, and the Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category addresses this need through intelligent power management features. These switches are designed to optimize energy consumption without sacrificing performance, contributing to more sustainable network operations.

By supporting advanced power management technologies, this category allows organizations to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. Efficient energy usage aligns with broader sustainability goals while ensuring that network infrastructure remains robust and reliable.

Optimized Power Delivery for Connected Devices

The Catalyst 3650 category supports efficient power delivery to connected devices, enabling reliable operation of endpoints such as wireless access points and IP-based systems. This capability simplifies deployment by reducing the need for additional power sources and enhancing overall network efficiency.

Intelligent power allocation ensures that connected devices receive the appropriate level of power based on their requirements, enhancing reliability and extending hardware lifespan.

Centralized Management and Operational Simplicity

Managing complex enterprise networks requires tools that provide visibility, control, and automation. The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category integrates seamlessly with Cisco’s management frameworks, enabling centralized configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting. This integration simplifies day-to-day operations and reduces the administrative burden on IT teams.

By offering comprehensive management capabilities, this category empowers organizations to maintain consistent network policies, quickly address issues, and adapt to changing requirements. Centralized management enhances operational efficiency and supports proactive network maintenance strategies.

Visibility and Analytics for Informed Decision-Making

Network visibility is essential for optimizing performance and planning future upgrades. The Catalyst 3650 category provides detailed insights into traffic patterns, device behavior, and application usage. These analytics enable IT teams to make informed decisions that improve network efficiency and user satisfaction.

Enhanced visibility also supports capacity planning and performance optimization, ensuring that the network continues to meet organizational needs as demand evolves.

Versatile Deployment Scenarios Across Industries

The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category is suitable for a wide range of deployment scenarios across various industries. From corporate campuses and educational institutions to healthcare facilities and commercial environments, these switches deliver the flexibility and performance required to support diverse operational requirements.

This versatility stems from the combination of multi-gigabit access, robust uplinks, and intelligent software features. As a result, organizations across different sectors can leverage the Catalyst 3650 series to build reliable, secure, and high-performance access layer networks tailored to their specific needs.

Supporting Modern Digital Workplaces

In digital workplace environments where collaboration, mobility, and cloud applications are integral, the Catalyst 3650 category provides the foundation for seamless connectivity. By enabling high-speed access and consistent performance, this switch category supports productivity and innovation across the organization.

The ability to integrate wired and wireless networking under a unified architecture ensures that users experience reliable connectivity regardless of location or device, enhancing overall workplace efficiency.

Long-Term Value and Cisco Enterprise Reliability

The Cisco WS-C3650-12X48FD-S Catalyst 3650 Switch category reflects Cisco’s commitment to delivering long-term value and enterprise-grade reliability. Built on proven hardware designs and supported by Cisco’s extensive ecosystem, these switches offer stability, compatibility, and ongoing support that organizations can depend on.

By investing in the Catalyst 3650 series, enterprises gain access to a mature and trusted platform that evolves alongside their networking needs. This long-term value proposition makes the category an attractive choice for organizations seeking dependable access layer solutions that balance performance, scalability, and operational efficiency.