IE-3400H-8FT-A Cisco Catalyst IE3400 Network Switch

Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Managed Network Switch Overview

The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A is a robust, wall-mountable managed switch, ideal for industrial and enterprise environments. Designed for high-performance Fast Ethernet connectivity, it features 8 M12 ports, ensuring reliable network operations with advanced management capabilities.

Key Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: IE-3400H-8FT-A
• Device Type: Managed Switch
• Port Count: 8 x 10/100 Fast Ethernet
• Mounting: Wall-mountable

Performance & Capacity

• MAC Address Table: 8K entries
• VLAN Support: Up to 256 VLAN IDs
• Routing Protocols: IGMPv2, IGMPv3, MSTP, RSTP, STP
• Queue Support: 8 queues
• IGMP Groups: Up to 1000
• ACL Entries: 1500
• STP Instances: 128

Management & Remote Access

• SNMP v1, v2, v3
• Telnet and SSH access
• HTTP and TFTP support
• RMON monitoring
• Secure file transfer with SCP
• Network time synchronization via NTP

Advanced Features

• Fanless design for silent operation
• DHCP and BOOTP support
• Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) & IP Source Guard
• Port Security and Remote Switch Port Analyzer (RSPAN)
• Quality of Service (QoS) and DiffServ support
• Spanning Tree Protocol, PVST+, UDLD, REP
• IGMP snooping, filtering, and querier functions
• IPv4 and IPv6 compatibility
• LACP and LLDP support
• VLAN Trunking Protocol v2 & v3, Voice VLAN, Guest VLAN
• Precision Time Protocol (PTP) and CIP Sync (IEEE 1588)
• BPDU Guard and Dying Gasp functionality

Standards & Compliance

• IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3z, 802.3ab
• IEEE 802.1D, 802.1Q, 802.1p, 802.1w, 802.1s, 802.1x
• IEEE 802.3ad (LACP), 802.3x, 802.3ah
• IEEE 802.1ab (LLDP) and IEEE 1588v2

Dimensions & Weight

• Width x Depth x Height: 7.9 in x 3.1 in x 9.6 in
• Weight: 8.44 lbs

Industrial Ethernet Switching Built for Harsh Environments

The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category represents a specialized class of industrial networking equipment designed for deployment in environments where traditional enterprise switches cannot operate reliably. These switches are engineered to deliver consistent Fast Ethernet connectivity under extreme temperature variations, vibration, dust, moisture, and electrical noise. Within industrial automation, transportation systems, energy infrastructure, and outdoor installations, the IE-3400H series fulfills the need for ruggedized, compact, and highly secure Ethernet switching.

Fast Ethernet remains a critical technology in many industrial systems where deterministic communication, compatibility with legacy devices, and stable throughput are more important than raw bandwidth. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A model integrates eight Fast Ethernet ports using M12 connectors, which are widely recognized for their superior resistance to shock, vibration, and environmental exposure. This category focuses on switches that are wall mountable, space-efficient, and optimized for distributed industrial networks where reliability and uptime are essential.

Role of Fast Ethernet in Industrial Network Architectures

Fast Ethernet continues to play a vital role in industrial communication networks, particularly in control systems, field devices, sensors, and programmable logic controllers. Many industrial protocols and devices are designed around 100 Mbps connectivity, ensuring predictable latency and stable data transfer. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst switch category supports these requirements by providing consistent Fast Ethernet performance that integrates seamlessly into existing industrial Ethernet topologies.

In industrial automation environments, network determinism and reliability are often more critical than multi-gigabit speeds. Fast Ethernet ensures compatibility with industrial protocols such as PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, and Modbus TCP, while maintaining low jitter and predictable response times. Switches in this category are designed to handle continuous operation, often twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, without performance degradation.

M12 Connector Technology for Secure Industrial Connectivity

A defining feature of the Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category is the use of M12 connectors. Unlike standard RJ45 connectors, M12 connectors provide a locking mechanism that prevents accidental disconnection due to vibration or movement. This makes them ideal for industrial machinery, transportation systems, and outdoor installations where cables are subject to constant stress.

M12 connectors also offer improved sealing against dust, moisture, and contaminants. In harsh industrial environments, exposure to oil, chemicals, or humidity can quickly degrade standard connectors. The M12 interfaces used in this switch category help maintain signal integrity and physical durability, ensuring long-term network stability. This design choice aligns with industrial standards and supports installations in factory floors, rail systems, and roadside equipment cabinets.

Eight-Port Configuration for Distributed Network Design

The eight-port Fast Ethernet configuration provides a balanced combination of connectivity and compact design. In distributed industrial networks, switches are often placed close to machines, sensors, or control panels. An eight-port design allows multiple devices to be connected locally, reducing cable runs and simplifying network architecture. This category supports modular and scalable network designs where additional switches can be deployed as needed.

Each port is engineered to deliver reliable Fast Ethernet performance, supporting full-duplex communication and industrial traffic patterns. The port density is optimized for edge deployments, making these switches suitable for machine-level networking, remote I/O connectivity, and localized data aggregation in industrial systems.

Wall Mountable Design for Flexible Industrial Deployment

The wall mountable form factor of the Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 switch category addresses the practical constraints of industrial installations. Space is often limited in control cabinets, roadside enclosures, and equipment rooms. Wall mounting allows these switches to be installed vertically or horizontally, maximizing available space while maintaining accessibility for maintenance and inspection.

Wall mountable switches are particularly valuable in retrofitting existing facilities where rack space is unavailable or impractical. The compact enclosure design ensures that the switch can be installed close to connected devices, reducing cable lengths and minimizing signal loss. This deployment flexibility supports a wide range of industrial use cases, from manufacturing lines to transportation infrastructure.

Ruggedized Enclosure and Environmental Resistance

Switches in this category are built with ruggedized enclosures designed to withstand harsh operating conditions. Industrial-grade materials and construction techniques ensure resistance to vibration, shock, and mechanical stress. The enclosure design supports extended operating temperature ranges, allowing deployment in environments with extreme heat or cold without the need for additional climate control.

Environmental resistance is a critical factor in industrial networking. Dust, moisture, and airborne contaminants can compromise electronic components over time. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A category emphasizes durability and longevity, reducing maintenance requirements and lowering the total cost of ownership for industrial network operators.

Power and Reliability Considerations

Reliable power delivery is essential for industrial network switches. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category is designed to support stable operation even in environments with fluctuating power conditions. Industrial power inputs and robust internal power regulation help protect the switch from voltage spikes, surges, and electrical noise commonly found in industrial settings.

High availability is achieved through robust hardware design and enterprise-grade software features. These switches are intended to operate continuously with minimal downtime, supporting mission-critical applications where network failure can result in production losses or safety risks.

Advanced Cisco Catalyst Software and Management Capabilities

As part of the Cisco Catalyst family, the IE-3400H-8FT-A switch category benefits from advanced software features that enhance network visibility, control, and security. Industrial networks are increasingly connected to enterprise IT systems, making centralized management and policy enforcement essential. Cisco Catalyst software enables consistent configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting across both industrial and enterprise environments.

Network administrators can leverage familiar Cisco management tools and interfaces to manage these industrial switches. This reduces the learning curve and simplifies integration into existing network management workflows. Consistent software capabilities across the Catalyst portfolio help unify operational technology and information technology networks.

Security Features for Industrial Networks

Security is a growing concern in industrial environments as connectivity expands beyond isolated systems. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category incorporates security features designed to protect industrial networks from unauthorized access and cyber threats. These features support secure device authentication, network segmentation, and traffic control.

Industrial networks often support critical infrastructure and safety systems. Robust security mechanisms help prevent malicious activity, accidental misconfigurations, and unauthorized device connections. By integrating Catalyst-level security features, this category supports compliance with industrial cybersecurity best practices and standards.

Network Segmentation and Traffic Control

Network segmentation is essential for maintaining performance and security in complex industrial systems. Switches in this category support segmentation techniques that isolate different types of traffic, such as control data, monitoring information, and management communications. This helps ensure that critical control traffic is prioritized and protected from congestion or interference.

Traffic control capabilities enable administrators to manage bandwidth usage and maintain predictable network behavior. In industrial environments where real-time communication is critical, these features help ensure reliable operation and consistent performance.

Applications Across Industrial and Transportation Sectors

The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category is well suited for a wide range of industrial and transportation applications. In manufacturing environments, these switches support machine-to-machine communication, sensor data aggregation, and control system connectivity. Their rugged design ensures reliable operation on factory floors with high levels of vibration and electrical noise.

In transportation systems, such as rail networks and roadside infrastructure, the use of M12 connectors and wall mountable enclosures supports reliable connectivity in outdoor and mobile environments. These switches can be deployed in trackside cabinets, vehicles, and control rooms, providing consistent network performance under challenging conditions.

Energy, Utilities, and Outdoor Deployments

Energy and utility networks require robust communication infrastructure to support monitoring, control, and safety systems. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A category supports deployments in substations, renewable energy installations, and remote monitoring sites. The ruggedized design and secure connectivity features help ensure continuous operation in environments exposed to weather and environmental stress.

Outdoor deployments benefit from the environmental resistance and secure connectors offered by this category. Wall mountable switches can be installed in enclosures or cabinets, providing flexible installation options while maintaining network reliability.

Integration with Existing Industrial Ethernet Ecosystems

Compatibility with existing industrial Ethernet ecosystems is a key advantage of this switch category. Fast Ethernet support ensures seamless integration with legacy devices and systems, reducing the need for costly upgrades or replacements. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category enables gradual network evolution while maintaining compatibility with established industrial technologies.

This integration capability supports long-term infrastructure planning, allowing organizations to modernize their networks incrementally. By combining rugged hardware with advanced software features, this category bridges the gap between traditional industrial networking and modern enterprise connectivity.

Scalability and Future-Ready Industrial Networking

Although Fast Ethernet is a mature technology, the Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A category is designed with future scalability in mind. These switches can be integrated into larger industrial network architectures that include higher-speed aggregation layers and centralized management systems. Their role at the network edge remains critical, providing reliable connectivity for field devices and control systems.

As industrial networks continue to evolve, the need for secure, reliable, and manageable edge switches will remain constant. The Cisco IE-3400H-8FT-A Catalyst IE3400 Fast Ethernet M12 interfaces 8 Ports Wall Mountable Network Switches category addresses this need by combining industrial-grade hardware, proven Fast Ethernet technology, and advanced Catalyst software capabilities into a cohesive solution.