WS-C3850-48P-E Cisco Ethernet Switch (48 Ports)

Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E 48-Port Ethernet Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E is a high-performance, stackable Layer 3 switch, ideal for enterprise networks and data centers. With 48 gigabit Ethernet ports and robust PoE+ support, this switch ensures seamless connectivity, scalability, and network reliability.

Key Product Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model / SKU: WS-C3850-48P-E
• Device Type: Managed Layer 3 Switch
• Port Count: 48 x 10/100/1000 (PoE+) and 48 x 10/100/1000
• Form Factor: Desktop or 1U Rack-mountable

Performance and Capacity

• Switching Capacity: 176 Gbps
• Stacking Bandwidth: 480 Gbps
• IPv4 Routing: Up to 24,000 routes
• NetFlow Entries: 48,000
• Switched Virtual Interfaces (SVIs): 1,000
• MAC Address Table: 32,000 entries
• Jumbo Frame Support: Up to 9,198 bytes

Power Over Ethernet (PoE+) Capabilities

• PoE Standard: PoE+
• Total PoE Budget: 435 W
• Supports seamless device powering for IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras

Advanced Routing & Network Protocols

• Supports BGP-4, OSPFv3, IS-IS, RIP v1/v2, EIGRP, PIM-SM, PIM-SSM, RIPng, and EIGRP for IPv6
• Enables robust Layer 3 routing and enterprise-grade network management

Management & Remote Access

• Remote management via SNMP v1/v2c/v3, RMON 1 & 2, Telnet, SSH, CLI
• Simplifies monitoring, troubleshooting, and configuration across large deployments

Feature-Rich Networking

• Auto-negotiation, VLAN support, trunking, and dynamic ARP inspection
• Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP), and PVRST+
• IGMP/MLD snooping, DHCP snooping, ACLs, QoS, VRF-lite, LACP, RSPAN, Layer 3 load balancing
• Energy-efficient Ethernet, StackWise-480, StackPower technology, and Flexible NetFlow (FNF)

Compliance & Standards

• IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3z, 802.3ab, 802.3af, 802.3at
• IEEE 802.1d, 802.1q, 802.1p, 802.1w, 802.1s, 802.1x, 802.3x, 802.3ad (LACP)

Power Specifications

• AC Input: 120/230 V, 50/60 Hz
• Optional power redundancy for uninterrupted operation

Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E 48 Ports Manageable Switch

The Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E is a high-performance 48-port managed Ethernet switch, designed for enterprise networking environments that demand reliability, scalability, and seamless connectivity. As part of the Cisco Catalyst 3850 series, this switch integrates advanced networking capabilities with exceptional Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, providing both data and power over a single network cable. Ideal for businesses seeking to optimize their local area networks (LANs), the WS-C3850-48P-E combines flexibility, security, and high throughput to meet modern networking demands.

Advanced Layer 3 Switching Capabilities

One of the key advantages of the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E is its comprehensive Layer 3 switching functionality. Supporting static routing, RIP, OSPF, and EIGRP, this switch facilitates efficient and dynamic network routing, ensuring data reaches its destination quickly and reliably. Layer 3 capabilities enable the switch to segment network traffic intelligently, reducing congestion and improving overall performance in large-scale enterprise environments. Businesses can deploy this switch in core, distribution, or access layers, leveraging its routing proficiency to streamline network operations and simplify management.

Scalable 48-Port Connectivity

The WS-C3850-48P-E offers 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, providing extensive connectivity for a wide range of devices, from computers and IP phones to wireless access points and security cameras. The generous port count ensures that enterprises can support dense deployments without the need for additional switches, reducing hardware complexity and operational costs. Each port supports advanced features such as PoE+, enabling the deployment of devices that require electrical power over the network cable, including VoIP phones, surveillance cameras, and Wi-Fi access points, eliminating the need for separate power sources.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) Functionality

PoE support in the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E allows network administrators to power devices directly through Ethernet cables. This functionality significantly simplifies network infrastructure by removing the need for additional electrical wiring, lowering installation costs, and enhancing network flexibility. PoE+ ensures compatibility with high-power devices, delivering up to 30 watts per port, while intelligent power management distributes available power efficiently across connected devices. This capability is crucial for modern offices and campuses where multiple PoE-dependent devices are deployed.

Stackable Architecture and Network Scalability

The Cisco Catalyst 3850 series, including the WS-C3850-48P-E, is designed with stackable architecture, enabling multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit. StackWise technology allows network administrators to connect up to nine switches in a stack, simplifying management while increasing redundancy and throughput. Stackable deployment enhances scalability, providing a seamless path for network growth without compromising performance or security. This feature is particularly valuable for organizations experiencing rapid expansion or requiring a resilient network infrastructure to support critical business operations.

High Availability and Redundancy

Enterprise networks demand uninterrupted uptime, and the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E addresses this need with high availability features such as redundant power supplies, hot-swappable components, and dual supervisors. The dual supervisor engine provides continuous monitoring and failover capability, ensuring that network services remain active even during hardware failures. Combined with Cisco IOS XE software, the switch supports software-based redundancy mechanisms that further enhance reliability, making it a dependable solution for mission-critical applications and services.

Enhanced Security Features

Security is a critical concern for any modern network, and the WS-C3850-48P-E includes comprehensive security mechanisms to protect enterprise data. The switch supports features such as 802.1X authentication, Access Control Lists (ACLs), Dynamic ARP Inspection, and IP Source Guard, which collectively help prevent unauthorized access and mitigate threats. Integration with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) allows centralized policy enforcement, ensuring that only authenticated devices can access network resources. These security measures are essential for organizations handling sensitive information or adhering to strict regulatory compliance requirements.

Optimized Wireless Integration

With the increasing adoption of wireless networking, the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E is designed to integrate seamlessly with wireless access points, enabling unified wired and wireless management. Cisco’s Mobility Express and Wireless Controller functionality allow network administrators to manage both wired and wireless traffic from a single platform. This unified approach simplifies network management, improves performance, and provides visibility across the entire infrastructure. By leveraging this integration, enterprises can offer consistent, high-quality connectivity for mobile users and IoT devices, enhancing productivity and user experience.

Advanced QoS and Traffic Management

Quality of Service (QoS) is a vital component for networks supporting real-time applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, and streaming media. The WS-C3850-48P-E features sophisticated QoS capabilities that prioritize critical traffic, ensuring smooth communication and minimal latency. Traffic shaping, policing, and queuing mechanisms allow administrators to fine-tune network performance based on business needs, while multicast optimization ensures efficient delivery of video and collaborative applications. These features make the switch an excellent choice for multimedia-intensive environments where performance consistency is paramount.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

Energy efficiency is a growing concern for enterprises, and the WS-C3850-48P-E addresses this with Cisco EnergyWise technology, which monitors and manages power consumption across the network. Intelligent power management allows the switch to adjust energy usage based on traffic patterns, idle ports, and connected devices, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. Compliance with Energy Star standards demonstrates Cisco’s commitment to sustainability while delivering enterprise-grade performance. Organizations can deploy this switch confidently, knowing they are balancing performance with eco-friendly practices.

Deployment Considerations and Best Practices

Deploying the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E requires careful planning to maximize its potential. Network administrators should assess bandwidth requirements, PoE demands, and redundancy needs before installation. Utilizing stacking technology can simplify management and enhance resiliency, while proper VLAN segmentation ensures efficient traffic flow and security. Regular firmware updates and configuration backups are recommended to maintain optimal performance and safeguard against vulnerabilities. By following best practices, organizations can leverage the full capabilities of the WS-C3850-48P-E to build a high-performance, secure, and scalable network environment.

Integration with Other Cisco Solutions

The WS-C3850-48P-E integrates seamlessly with other Cisco solutions, including routers, wireless controllers, and security appliances. This interoperability provides a unified networking ecosystem, enabling advanced features such as Cisco DNA Center automation, network analytics, and policy enforcement across the entire infrastructure. Organizations can benefit from a holistic approach to network management, where wired and wireless networks operate cohesively, delivering enhanced performance, security, and visibility. Integration with cloud-based platforms also allows remote monitoring and management, supporting distributed enterprise environments.

Future-Proof Network Investment

Investing in the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-E represents a future-proof choice for enterprises planning long-term network growth. Its stackable design, Layer 3 functionality, PoE+ support, and advanced management capabilities provide the flexibility required to adapt to emerging technologies and increasing network demands. As organizations continue to adopt cloud services, IoT devices, and high-bandwidth applications, this switch ensures that the network infrastructure remains robust, efficient, and secure. By selecting the WS-C3850-48P-E, businesses can create a network foundation that supports scalability, innovation, and operational excellence for years to come.