WS-C3850-24XUW-S Cisco Catalyst Managed Switch

Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S Catalyst 24-Port Managed Switch

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-24XUW-S is a high-performance Layer 3 managed switch, designed for enterprise networks requiring robust connectivity, advanced security, and scalable performance. Ideal for demanding environments, this 24-port switch provides comprehensive features for modern networking.

Key Product Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model: WS-C3850-24XUW-S
• Type: Layer 3 Managed Switch
• Ports: 24 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet
• Series: Catalyst 3850
• Stackable: Yes, supports Cisco StackWise-480

Port and Expansion Configuration

• Total Network Ports: 24 x 10G Ethernet
• Uplink Port: Included
• Modular Expansion: Not supported
• Stack Ports: Available
• Additional Slots: 1 total (1 free)

Capacity and Network Performance

• IPv4 Routes: 24,000
• Switched Virtual Interfaces (SVIs): 1,000
• Virtual LANs (VLANs): 4,000
• NetFlow Entries: 24,000
• QoS Hardware Queues per Port: 8
• MAC Address Table: 32,000 entries
• Maximum Jumbo Frame: 9,198 bytes

Advanced Features and Security

• DHCP and ARP Support
• Auto-Uplink (MDI/MDI-X)
• IGMP Snooping and Syslog Integration
• Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
• IPv6 Compatible
• Stateful Switchover (SSO) and Redundancy
• PIM Snooping and Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP)
• DHCP Snooping, Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP), and PAgP Support
• ACL and QoS Management
• VRF-Lite, DAI, URPF, UDLD, and PVRST+
• LACP, Port Security, RSPAN, CAPWAP, and Energy Efficient Ethernet
• Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS)
• Flexible NetFlow (FNF), 802.1x Authentication, and DSCP Support
• VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP) and BPDU Protection
• Control Plane Protection (CoPP) and Weighted Tail Drop (WTD)

Management Capabilities

• Fully manageable with SNMP v1/v2c/v3, RMON v1/v2, Telnet, SSH, CLI, and TFTP
• Supports OSPF, BGP-4, IS-IS, RIP-1/2, EIGRP, IGMP, PIM-SM, PIM-DM, Static Routing, and IPv6 variants
• Policy-Based Routing (PBR) and Multicast Support

Connectivity Options

• 24 x 1/2.5/5/10GBase-T RJ-45 UPOE ports (60W)
• 1 x USB Type A and 1 x Mini-USB Type B for management
• 1 x Console RJ-45 Management port
• 1 x Gigabit LAN RJ-45 Management port
• 2 x Network Stack Device ports

Compliance and Standards

• CISPR 22/24, EN 55024, EN 61000 series
• FCC Part 15, UL 60950-1, IEC 60950-1
• RoHS, KCC, ICES-003, AS/NZS 3548, BSMI, VCCI, CNS 13438

Software and System Requirements

• Included Software: Cisco IOS IP Base
• Cables Provided: 1 Stacking Cable
• Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): 203,150 hours

Power and Redundancy

• Internal Power Supply (1 installed, up to 2 supported)
• Optional Redundant Power: 1+1 Scheme
• Power Output: 1,100 W
• Voltage Range: AC 120/230 V (50–60 Hz)

Enterprise-Class Managed Switching Architecture

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S Catalyst 24 Port Managed Switch belongs to a highly respected class of enterprise-grade networking hardware designed to deliver reliable, scalable, and intelligent switching for modern business environments. This category of managed switches is engineered to support complex network infrastructures where performance consistency, centralized control, and advanced feature integration are critical. The Catalyst 3850 series represents a convergence of wired and wireless networking intelligence, enabling organizations to manage data traffic with precision while maintaining flexibility for future growth.

Managed switches in this category are purpose-built for enterprises, campuses, large branch offices, and mission-critical environments that require more than basic connectivity. They provide deep visibility into network behavior, advanced Quality of Service mechanisms, and enhanced security controls. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S specifically emphasizes high-speed access, unified communications readiness, and advanced Power over Ethernet capabilities, making it an integral component of next-generation network designs.

Positioning Within the Catalyst 3850 Series

The Catalyst 3850 series is known for its modular uplink options, integrated wireless controller functionality, and support for Cisco IOS XE software. Within this family, the WS-C3850-24XUW-S stands out as a 24-port access-layer switch optimized for environments that demand both high bandwidth and intelligent power delivery. This category addresses the need for a unified switching platform that reduces operational complexity while enhancing performance and reliability across the access layer.

Organizations deploying this category of switches benefit from consistent policy enforcement, simplified configuration, and the ability to scale network services without disrupting existing operations. The design philosophy behind the Catalyst 3850 platform ensures that access switches are no longer passive endpoints but active participants in traffic optimization, security enforcement, and application performance monitoring.

High-Density 24-Port Switching Capabilities

The 24-port configuration of the Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S is engineered to provide optimal port density for medium to large deployments. This category of managed switch is ideal for connecting a wide range of endpoint devices, including high-performance workstations, IP phones, wireless access points, and multimedia collaboration systems. Each port is designed to deliver consistent throughput while supporting advanced features such as auto-negotiation, VLAN segmentation, and intelligent traffic handling.

By focusing on a 24-port form factor, this category balances scalability and space efficiency. It allows network administrators to deploy high-performance switching in wiring closets, data rooms, and distributed access locations without excessive hardware footprint. The result is a streamlined access layer that supports both current operational requirements and future expansion.

Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Integration

This category of Catalyst switches incorporates multi-gigabit Ethernet technology to address the growing demand for higher bandwidth at the access layer. As modern applications and devices generate increasing volumes of data, traditional gigabit connections can become bottlenecks. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S category is designed to support higher-speed Ethernet connections over existing cabling infrastructure, enabling organizations to upgrade performance without costly rewiring.

Multi-gigabit capabilities are especially relevant for wireless access point connectivity, where newer standards require greater backhaul bandwidth to fully utilize their potential. This category ensures that access points, servers, and high-demand endpoints can operate at optimal speeds, enhancing overall network efficiency.

Advanced Power over Ethernet Design

Power over Ethernet is a defining characteristic of this category of managed switches. The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S is engineered to deliver robust and reliable power to connected devices, supporting a wide range of PoE-enabled endpoints. This includes IP telephony systems, surveillance cameras, wireless access points, and unified communications hardware.

The category emphasizes intelligent power management, allowing administrators to allocate power dynamically based on device requirements and usage patterns. This ensures efficient utilization of available power budgets while maintaining operational stability. By integrating power delivery with data connectivity, this category simplifies deployment and reduces the need for additional electrical infrastructure.

Support for High-Power PoE Devices

The WS-C3850-24XUW-S category is optimized to support high-power PoE devices that demand more energy than standard endpoints. This capability is essential for modern wireless access points, video conferencing systems, and advanced IoT devices. By providing enhanced power delivery, this category enables organizations to deploy next-generation technologies without compromising performance or reliability.

High-power PoE support also enhances scalability, allowing networks to adapt to evolving device requirements over time. As new technologies emerge, this category of switches ensures that the access layer remains capable of supporting increased power and bandwidth demands.

Unified Wired and Wireless Networking

One of the defining features of the Catalyst 3850 category is its ability to unify wired and wireless networking under a single management framework. The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S integrates wireless controller functionality directly into the switch, enabling centralized control of wireless access points without the need for separate controllers.

This unified approach simplifies network design and management, reducing hardware requirements and operational complexity. It allows administrators to apply consistent policies across wired and wireless domains, ensuring seamless connectivity and uniform security enforcement throughout the network.

Integrated Wireless Controller Capabilities

The integrated wireless controller functionality within this category enables organizations to manage wireless access points directly from the switch. This includes configuration, monitoring, and optimization of wireless performance. By consolidating wired and wireless management, this category enhances visibility and control while reducing the learning curve for network administrators.

Wireless traffic benefits from the same advanced features as wired traffic, including Quality of Service prioritization, security inspection, and application awareness. This convergence ensures consistent user experiences regardless of connection method.

Performance and Throughput Optimization

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S category is designed to deliver high-performance switching with minimal latency. Advanced hardware architecture and intelligent traffic processing ensure that data flows efficiently across the network, even under heavy load conditions. This is particularly important for real-time applications such as voice, video, and collaboration tools.

Performance optimization within this category extends beyond raw throughput. It includes intelligent buffering, congestion management, and traffic shaping capabilities that maintain consistent performance during peak usage periods. These features contribute to a reliable and responsive network environment.

Quality of Service and Traffic Prioritization

Quality of Service is a core feature of this category, enabling administrators to prioritize critical applications and services. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S supports advanced QoS mechanisms that classify, mark, and schedule traffic based on predefined policies. This ensures that latency-sensitive applications receive the necessary resources to function optimally.

By implementing granular traffic prioritization, this category enhances user experiences and supports business-critical operations. It allows organizations to align network performance with operational priorities and service-level objectives.

Enterprise-Grade Security Features

Security is a fundamental aspect of the Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S category. These managed switches incorporate a comprehensive set of security features designed to protect network resources and sensitive data. This includes access control mechanisms, threat detection capabilities, and secure management interfaces.

The category emphasizes proactive security, enabling organizations to identify and mitigate threats before they impact network operations. By integrating security at the access layer, this category provides a strong foundation for a defense-in-depth strategy.

Network Segmentation and Access Control

Network segmentation is a key security feature supported by this category. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S enables administrators to create and manage multiple virtual networks, isolating traffic and reducing the risk of unauthorized access. This capability is essential for environments with diverse user groups, devices, and compliance requirements.

Access control mechanisms further enhance security by restricting network access based on user identity, device type, or location. This category supports dynamic policy enforcement, ensuring that only authorized users and devices can access network resources.

Scalability and StackWise Technology

Scalability is a defining characteristic of the Catalyst 3850 category. The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S supports Cisco StackWise technology, enabling multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit. This simplifies management and enhances redundancy, allowing organizations to scale their networks without increasing complexity.

StackWise technology provides high-speed interconnects between switches, ensuring consistent performance and seamless failover. This category is well-suited for growing networks that require flexible expansion options and high availability.

Simplified Expansion and Redundancy

By leveraging stacking capabilities, this category allows organizations to expand port capacity and throughput incrementally. New switches can be added to the stack with minimal disruption, preserving existing configurations and policies. This approach reduces deployment time and operational risk.

Redundancy is also enhanced through stacking, as traffic can be rerouted automatically in the event of a hardware failure. This ensures continuous network availability and supports mission-critical operations.

Cisco IOS XE Software and Management

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S category is powered by Cisco IOS XE software, providing a modern, modular operating system for enterprise networking. IOS XE combines the reliability of traditional Cisco IOS with advanced programmability and automation capabilities.

This software platform enables centralized management, real-time monitoring, and advanced analytics. It supports modern network management paradigms, including software-defined networking and automation frameworks.

Programmability and Automation Support

Programmability is a key advantage of this category, allowing organizations to automate routine tasks and integrate network operations with business processes. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S supports APIs and scripting interfaces that enable customization and automation of network functions.

By embracing programmability, this category helps organizations improve operational efficiency, reduce human error, and accelerate deployment of new services.

Reliability and Hardware Design

The hardware design of the Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S category emphasizes durability, efficiency, and long-term reliability. Components are selected and engineered to operate consistently under demanding conditions, ensuring stable performance over extended periods.

This category supports enterprise-grade cooling, power management, and fault detection mechanisms. These features contribute to reduced downtime and lower total cost of ownership.

Optimized Cooling and Power Efficiency

Efficient cooling is essential for maintaining performance and extending hardware lifespan. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S category incorporates intelligent cooling systems that adapt to workload and environmental conditions. This ensures optimal thermal management while minimizing energy consumption.

Power efficiency features further enhance sustainability by reducing operational costs and environmental impact. This category aligns with modern energy efficiency standards and corporate sustainability initiatives.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S category is versatile enough to support a wide range of deployment scenarios. It is commonly used in enterprise campuses, branch offices, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and industrial environments. Its combination of performance, security, and manageability makes it suitable for both traditional and modern network architectures.

This category supports digital transformation initiatives by providing a robust and adaptable access layer. It enables organizations to deploy new technologies, support mobile workforces, and deliver high-quality digital experiences.

Support for Modern Applications and Services

Modern applications demand consistent performance, low latency, and high availability. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S category is designed to meet these requirements, supporting cloud services, collaboration platforms, and data-intensive workloads.

By delivering reliable connectivity and advanced traffic management, this category ensures that applications perform as intended, enhancing productivity and user satisfaction.

Long-Term Value and Investment Protection

The Cisco WS-C3850-24XUW-S Catalyst 24 Port Managed Switch category represents a long-term investment in network infrastructure. Its modular design, advanced feature set, and software-driven capabilities ensure that it remains relevant as technology evolves.

This category provides investment protection by supporting future upgrades, new standards, and emerging technologies. Organizations can rely on this platform to adapt to changing requirements without frequent hardware replacements.

Lifecycle Support and Enterprise Ecosystem

Cisco’s extensive ecosystem of support, documentation, and integration partners enhances the value of this category. The WS-C3850-24XUW-S benefits from ongoing software updates, security enhancements, and compatibility with a wide range of network solutions.

This comprehensive ecosystem ensures that organizations can maximize the return on their investment while maintaining a secure, high-performance, and scalable network infrastructure.