C1000-16T-E-2G-L Cisco Catalyst C1000-16T SFP Managed Switch

Product Overview: The Cisco Catalyst C1000-16T-E-2G-L Switch

The Cisco Catalyst C1000-16T-E-2G-L is a fully managed, Layer 3 Lite switch featuring 16 x 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 ports and 2 x 1G SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) uplink ports for fiber connectivity. The "E" in the model number signifies the Enhanced feature set, which includes advanced security, quality of service (QoS), and management capabilities. This switch is designed to provide a seamless and secure network foundation, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications, VoIP, video surveillance, and wireless access point connectivity with ease and intelligence.

Core Hardware Specifications and Design

Understanding the physical and hardware attributes of the C1000-16T is crucial for planning your network infrastructure. This switch is built for performance and durability in diverse environments.

Port Configuration and Connectivity

The port layout of this switch is engineered for maximum flexibility. The 16 copper Gigabit Ethernet ports provide high-speed connectivity to end-user devices, printers, IP phones, and access points. The two dedicated SFP uplink ports allow for longer-distance connections to other switches or network core devices using fiber optic cables, reducing electromagnetic interference and extending network reach up to kilometers.

Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 Ports

All 16 copper ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds with auto-negotiation and auto-MDI/MDIX, simplifying cabling. They also support IEEE 802.3af/at Power over Ethernet (PoE+), though it's critical to note that the specific C1000-16T-E-2G-L model is a non-PoE switch. For PoE requirements, other models in the C1000 series are available.

SFP Uplink Ports

The two fixed 1 Gigabit SFP slots support a wide range of Cisco SFP modules (sold separately), including 1000BASE-SX, LX, LH, and ZX. This allows network architects to choose the appropriate transceiver for distance and fiber type (multimode or single-mode), enabling seamless integration into existing fiber backbones.

Performance and Switching Capacity

With a switching capacity of 36 Gbps and a forwarding rate of up to 26.8 million packets per second (Mpps), the C1000-16T-E-2G-L ensures wire-speed performance across all ports simultaneously, preventing bottlenecks even under heavy load. Its ample packet buffer memory manages traffic bursts efficiently, maintaining smooth application performance.

Advanced Software Features and Management

Beyond hardware, the true power of the Catalyst C1000 lies in its comprehensive software feature set, which brings enterprise-class intelligence to the network edge.

Layer 3 Lite Routing Capabilities

The "Layer 3 Lite" functionality provides essential routing protocols to enhance network segmentation and efficiency without the complexity of full Layer 3 switches. This includes static routing and RIP (Routing Information Protocol), enabling inter-VLAN routing and basic path selection between network segments directly at the access layer.

VLAN Support and Network Segmentation

The switch supports IEEE 802.1Q VLANs, allowing the creation of up to 1005 VLANs. This is essential for segregating traffic for security, performance, and organizational purposes—such as separating guest WiFi, employee data, and VoIP traffic into distinct broadcast domains.

Voice VLAN and QoS for VoIP

A dedicated Voice VLAN feature simplifies the deployment of IP telephony by automatically configuring connected IP phones with the correct VLAN and QoS settings. Coupled with robust QoS features like classification, marking, policing, and scheduling based on Layer 2/3/4 parameters, it guarantees low latency and jitter for voice and video traffic.

Comprehensive Security Suite

Network security is paramount, and the C1000 series is equipped with a multi-layered security approach to protect data and infrastructure.

Access Control and Authentication

The switch supports IEEE 802.1X for port-based network access control (NAC), allowing user and device authentication against a RADIUS server. This prevents unauthorized devices from accessing the network. It also supports MAC Authentication Bypass (MAB) and web authentication for devices that do not support 802.1X.

Threat Mitigation and ACLs

Features like DHCP snooping, IP Source Guard, and Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) work in concert to prevent common LAN attacks like ARP spoofing and DHCP starvation. Standard, extended, and time-based Access Control Lists (ACLs) provide granular control over traffic flows, permitting or denying access based on IP address, protocol, and port.

Simplified Network Management

Deployment and ongoing management of the switch are streamlined through multiple intuitive interfaces.

Cisco DNA Center and Smart Managed Features

While the C1000 is fully manageable via CLI and a web GUI, it is also compatible with Cisco DNA Center for centralized, intent-based network management at scale. Plug-and-play deployment, consistent policy application, and advanced analytics are facilitated through DNA Center integration.

Standalone Web Interface and CLI

For smaller deployments, the device offers a user-friendly web-based management interface (GUI) for quick setup and monitoring. For network professionals, the familiar Cisco IOS CLI provides full control over all switch functions and is accessible via console port, Telnet, or SSH.

Ideal Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The versatility of the Cisco C1000-16T-E-2G-L makes it suitable for a wide array of networking environments where reliable, managed connectivity is required.

Small to Medium-Sized Business (SMB) Core/Aggregation

As the main switching backbone for an SMB, this model aggregates traffic from multiple access switches or directly connects critical servers and endpoints. Its Layer 3 Lite capabilities allow for internal routing between departments (sales, engineering, etc.) segmented into VLANs, improving security and performance.

Enterprise Branch Office and Remote Site

Enterprises can deploy this switch in remote branches to provide local switching and basic routing services. Its compact size, quiet operation, and robust security features make it ideal for wiring closets or small server rooms in satellite offices, ensuring connectivity policies are consistent with corporate standards.

Educational Networks and Campus Classrooms

In schools and universities, the switch can handle high-density student and faculty connectivity in computer labs, libraries, and administrative offices. Advanced QoS ensures e-learning platforms and video lectures receive priority, while comprehensive security features help protect sensitive student data.

Backbone for Wireless and Surveillance Networks

The switch is an excellent aggregation point for wireless access points, providing the Gigabit backhaul necessary for high-speed WiFi. Similarly, it can connect multiple IP security cameras, with QoS ensuring smooth video feed delivery to network video recorders (NVRs). The SFP uplinks are crucial for connecting to longer-distance cameras or a central monitoring station.

Comparing the C1000 Series: Finding the Right Model

The Catalyst 1000 series includes several models tailored to different needs. Understanding the distinctions helps in selecting the perfect switch.

C1000-16T-E-2G-L vs. PoE Models

The primary distinction is Power over Ethernet. Models like the C1000-16P-2G-L or C1000-16PP-2G-L offer PoE+ or PoE++ (UPOE) support, capable of powering devices like phones, cameras, and access points directly from the switch ports. The non-PoE 16T model is the ideal choice where powered devices are not required or are powered separately, offering a cost-effective solution.

Enhanced (E) vs. Essential Feature Sets

The "E" in the model name denotes the Enhanced software image. This includes advanced features like Layer 3 Lite routing (static/RIP), more comprehensive ACLs, and stricter security controls. The Essential image provides robust Layer 2 switching and basic security, suitable for simpler deployments. Choosing the Enhanced model future-proofs the network with greater flexibility.