WS-X4712-SFP-E= Cisco Catalyst Gigabit Ethernet Expansion Module

Cisco WS-X4712-SFP-E= 12-Ports Expansion Module 

The Cisco WS-X4712-SFP-E= is a high-performance 12-port expansion module designed for the Catalyst 4500 E-Series chassis. Engineered to enhance network scalability, reliability, and efficiency, this module provides advanced switching capabilities, supporting critical enterprise networking applications.

General Specifications and Manufacturer Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: WS-X4712-SFP-E=
• Device Type: Switch - 12 Ports

Port Configuration

• Port Type: Gigabit SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable)
• Total Ports: 12 x Gigabit Ethernet
• Speed Support: Up to 1 Gbps per port

Switching Performance

• Switching Capacity: 12 Gbps
• Jumbo Frame Support: Up to 9216 Bytes
• High Availability: Supports advanced port aggregation and redundancy features

Compliance with Industry Standards

• IEEE 802.3ad: LACP support ensures standard-compliant link aggregation
• IEEE 802.1ae: Supports MACsec for secure Ethernet connections

Benefits of Deployment

• Scalable network expansion for growing enterprise environments
• High-speed connectivity with Gigabit SFP ports
• Enhanced network reliability with link aggregation protocols
• Support for jumbo frames improves performance for large data transfers
• Compliance with industry standards guarantees interoperability and security

Ideal Applications

• High-density server farms
• Core or distribution layer switches in campus networks
• High-bandwidth storage area networks (SANs)
• Redundant and resilient network topologies

Cisco WS-X4712-SFP-E= Expansion Module

The Cisco WS-X4712-SFP-E= Catalyst 4500 E-Series 12-Ports Expansion Module is engineered to enhance network performance and scalability for enterprise environments. Designed for the Catalyst 4500 E-Series chassis, this expansion module delivers reliable high-speed connectivity through SFP interfaces, ensuring seamless integration into existing network infrastructures. Optimized for demanding business applications, it supports advanced data switching, redundancy, and secure communication protocols, making it ideal for mission-critical deployments.

Key Features of the WS-X4712-SFP-E= Module

This Catalyst 4500 E-Series expansion module is equipped with 12 high-performance SFP ports, providing flexible options for fiber optic connectivity. Each port supports varying speeds to accommodate different networking needs, including Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit Ethernet capabilities. The module also integrates advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, enabling efficient routing, VLAN segmentation, and traffic management across the network.

Advanced Connectivity Capabilities

The WS-X4712-SFP-E= module ensures high-speed data transfer and low-latency performance by utilizing high-quality SFP transceivers. Its compatibility with a wide range of SFP modules allows network administrators to tailor connections for specific distances and media types, whether multimode or single-mode fiber. This adaptability guarantees optimal network efficiency and reliable uptime, essential for enterprise environments requiring continuous operations.

Seamless Integration with Catalyst 4500 E-Series

Designed specifically for the Catalyst 4500 E-Series chassis, the WS-X4712-SFP-E= module integrates seamlessly without disrupting existing network configurations. It supports Cisco’s renowned redundancy features, including Stateful Switchover (SSO) and Nonstop Forwarding (NSF), which help maintain network stability and minimize downtime during maintenance or upgrades. These capabilities make it a dependable choice for organizations that demand high availability.

Performance Optimization

The module incorporates hardware-based forwarding and optimized switching engines to accelerate packet processing. With enhanced forwarding tables and buffer capacities, it can manage heavy network traffic efficiently, reducing bottlenecks and latency. The Catalyst 4500 E-Series expansion module also supports QoS (Quality of Service) prioritization, ensuring critical applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud services receive uninterrupted bandwidth for optimal performance.

Layer 2 and Layer 3 Functionality

The WS-X4712-SFP-E= provides comprehensive Layer 2 switching capabilities, including VLAN support, trunking, and spanning tree protocols. At Layer 3, it enables advanced routing functions such as OSPF, EIGRP, and static routing, allowing for scalable network topologies and inter-VLAN communication. By integrating these capabilities into a single module, network administrators can streamline network operations while maintaining high efficiency and security standards.

Redundancy and High Availability

High availability is a critical requirement for enterprise networks, and the WS-X4712-SFP-E= excels in this regard. The module works in conjunction with redundant supervisors and power supplies in the Catalyst 4500 E-Series chassis, ensuring continuous network operation even in the event of hardware failures. This design reduces downtime, enhances operational reliability, and supports business continuity strategies.

Scalability and Future-Proof Design

The Catalyst 4500 E-Series 12-Ports Expansion Module is built with scalability in mind. Network operators can expand port capacity as organizational needs grow, without replacing the core infrastructure. Its support for hot-swappable SFP modules allows for flexible upgrades and adjustments without requiring system shutdowns. This future-proof design makes the WS-X4712-SFP-E= an ideal investment for growing enterprises seeking long-term network efficiency.

Energy Efficiency and Thermal Management

Despite its high performance, the WS-X4712-SFP-E= is engineered for energy efficiency. It utilizes advanced thermal management techniques to maintain optimal operating temperatures, minimizing energy consumption and prolonging the lifespan of network components. This combination of efficiency and reliability ensures that the module operates effectively even under demanding workloads and environmental conditions.

Security Features

Security is a fundamental aspect of enterprise networking, and the WS-X4712-SFP-E= provides robust mechanisms to protect sensitive data. It supports features such as port security, access control lists (ACLs), and 802.1X authentication to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate potential threats. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with Cisco’s security frameworks, allowing administrators to implement end-to-end protection across the network.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

The WS-X4712-SFP-E= module is fully compatible with other Cisco networking solutions, including switches, routers, and wireless infrastructure. This integration allows for unified management and policy enforcement, reducing operational complexity and ensuring a consistent networking experience. It also supports Cisco DNA Center and SD-Access frameworks, enabling modern automation, analytics, and network segmentation capabilities for enhanced operational efficiency.

Applications in Enterprise Networks

This 12-port expansion module is suitable for a wide variety of enterprise networking scenarios. It can be deployed in campus networks, data centers, and high-density wiring closets to provide scalable connectivity and high-speed data access. Its reliability and performance make it ideal for supporting critical applications, virtualized environments, and high-bandwidth services, ensuring enterprises can maintain continuous operations and adapt to evolving network demands.

Reliability and Support

Cisco provides extensive support for the WS-X4712-SFP-E= Catalyst 4500 E-Series module, including warranty services, software updates, and technical assistance. This commitment ensures that organizations can maximize the lifespan and performance of their networking infrastructure. The module’s durable hardware design also contributes to its reliability, making it a trusted component for high-performance network environments.

Compatibility and Interoperability

The WS-X4712-SFP-E= module is designed for seamless interoperability with a wide range of Cisco networking devices. Its standardized SFP interfaces allow integration with various optical modules and transceivers, supporting flexible network topologies and high-speed links. Compatibility with both legacy and modern Cisco Catalyst switches ensures that organizations can maintain continuity while upgrading their network infrastructure incrementally.

Deployment Flexibility

Deployment of the WS-X4712-SFP-E= module is simplified through its plug-and-play design. Administrators can install the module quickly in supported Catalyst 4500 E-Series chassis without disrupting existing network operations. Its flexibility allows it to serve diverse environments, from enterprise campus networks to branch office setups, providing scalable and reliable connectivity wherever high-performance network expansion is required.

Technical Specifications of the WS-X4712-SFP-E= Module

The technical capabilities of the Catalyst 4500 E-Series 12-Ports Expansion Module include support for multiple Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds, low-latency switching architecture, and hardware-assisted routing. Each SFP port can accommodate hot-swappable transceivers, providing flexibility for fiber connectivity across varying distances. The module also features extensive support for VLANs, QoS, and advanced network protocols to ensure optimal performance under high-demand scenarios.

Port Density and Flexibility

With 12 SFP ports, the WS-X4712-SFP-E= allows network administrators to extend connectivity efficiently across multiple segments. Its support for various transceiver types enables connections over short-range multimode fiber or long-range single-mode fiber, meeting diverse networking requirements. The combination of high port density and flexible connectivity options ensures that networks can grow without compromising speed or reliability.

Enhanced Network Services

The module supports advanced network services including multicast optimization, policy-based routing, and distributed QoS management. These features allow administrators to prioritize critical applications, optimize bandwidth usage, and maintain service quality for end-users. The integration of Layer 2 and Layer 3 features in a single module also reduces complexity while enhancing network performance and scalability.

Resilience and Redundancy

Designed for mission-critical environments, the WS-X4712-SFP-E= provides hardware-level resilience. Redundant power supplies, supervisor engines, and SSO/NSF support ensure that network operations continue uninterrupted even during component failures. This high level of redundancy is essential for enterprise networks where downtime can result in significant operational and financial impacts.

Energy and Environmental Efficiency

Despite its performance-oriented design, the module emphasizes energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Advanced cooling mechanisms and power optimization features reduce heat generation and energy consumption. These characteristics not only minimize operational costs but also contribute to the long-term reliability of the module and associated network infrastructure.

Use Cases and Industry Applications

The Catalyst 4500 E-Series 12-Ports Expansion Module is suitable for a wide range of enterprise applications, including data centers, campus backbones, and service provider networks. It is particularly effective in environments that require scalable fiber connectivity, high-speed data transfer, and robust network security. Its performance, reliability, and flexibility make it a preferred choice for organizations seeking a long-term, high-performance networking solution.