WS-X4506-GB-T Cisco Catalyst 4500 6-Ports Switching Module

Cisco WS-X4506-GB-T Catalyst 4500 Switching Module

The Cisco WS-X4506-GB-T Catalyst 4500 series switching module is engineered to enhance enterprise network infrastructures with scalable, high-performance connectivity. Designed as a plug-in module for Catalyst 4500 chassis platforms, this switching module delivers reliable Gigabit Ethernet access while supporting advanced operational modes and industry compliance standards. It is optimized for campus networks, aggregation layers, and growing enterprise environments that demand flexibility, performance, and long-term reliability.

General Product Information

• Manufacturer: Cisco 
• Part Number: WS-X4506-GB-T
• Product Category: Switching Module
• Module Type: Ethernet Switch Module

Physical and Structural Attributes

• Plug-in module architecture for easy installation
• Optimized for Catalyst 4500 expansion slots
• Enterprise-grade build quality for continuous operation

Integrated Ethernet Ports

• 6 x 10/100/1000Base-T Ethernet ports
• RJ-45 connectors with Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability
• Backward compatibility with Fast Ethernet and Ethernet devices

Shared SFP Interfaces

• 6 x shared SFP (mini-GBIC) slots
• Support for fiber-optic uplinks and extended distances
• Flexible media selection for evolving network topologies

Supported Switching Modes

• Half-duplex mode for legacy network compatibility
• Full-duplex mode for maximum bandwidth utilization
• Automatic negotiation for speed and duplex settings

Advanced Frame Handling

• Jumbo frame support for large data packets
• Improved efficiency for data-intensive applications
• Reduced CPU overhead and packet processing load

RJ-45 Ethernet Interfaces

• 10Base-T, 100Base-TX, and 1000Base-T compatibility
• PoE-enabled ports for powering IP phones and wireless access points
• Ideal for access-layer device connectivity

SFP (mini-GBIC) Interfaces

• Support for a wide range of Cisco SFP transceivers
• Extended reach over single-mode and multi-mode fiber
• Enhanced flexibility for uplink and aggregation connections

Industry and Regulatory Compliance

• NEBS Level 3
• ETSI standards compliance
• FCC Part 15 Class A
• CISPR 22 Class A
• VCCI Class A ITE

Safety and Electrical Standards

• EN 60950 / IEC 950
• UL 1950
• CSA 22.2 No. 60950
• AS/NZS 3548
• EN55022 Class A and EN55024

Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series Switching Modules

The Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series switching modules category represents a foundational component within modular enterprise network architectures. These modules are engineered to integrate seamlessly into Catalyst 4500 Series chassis, extending switching capacity, port density, and performance without requiring a complete system replacement. Within this category, the Cisco WS-X4506-GB-T Catalyst 4500 6-Ports Switching Module stands as a specialized solution designed to deliver reliable Gigabit Ethernet connectivity with copper-based interfaces, supporting organizations that require scalable, chassis-based switching environments.

Catalyst 4500 Series modules are widely deployed in enterprise campus networks, distribution layers, and aggregation scenarios where consistent throughput, predictable latency, and centralized management are essential. The modular nature of the platform allows network architects to tailor systems according to current operational demands while preserving the ability to adapt to future growth. Switching modules such as the WS-X4506-GB-T contribute directly to this flexibility by providing additional network access or uplink options within an existing infrastructure.

Category Scope and Functional Role

The category of Gigabit Ethernet switching modules for the Catalyst 4500 platform encompasses components that provide Layer 2 and, in some configurations, Layer 3 switching capabilities. These modules function as the physical interface between the network core and connected devices, ensuring data frames are forwarded efficiently across the switching fabric. The WS-X4506-GB-T module specifically supports copper-based Gigabit Ethernet connections, making it suitable for environments where existing cabling standards such as Category 5e or Category 6 are prevalent.

Within this category, modules are expected to deliver consistent performance under sustained traffic loads, integrate with the Catalyst supervisor engines, and support Cisco IOS Software features. They are engineered to operate as part of a unified chassis system, benefiting from shared power supplies, cooling mechanisms, and centralized control. This category addresses enterprise requirements for reliability, manageability, and long-term operational stability.

Integration Within Modular Switching Architectures

Modular switching architectures rely on the ability to insert, replace, or upgrade functional components without disrupting the entire network. The Cisco WS-X4506-GB-T module exemplifies this design philosophy by allowing administrators to expand port availability or reconfigure network topology with minimal downtime. In the broader category context, such modules are critical for organizations that prioritize business continuity and incremental investment.

Integration within a Catalyst 4500 chassis enables the module to leverage high-speed backplane connections, ensuring that data traffic between modules and supervisors remains efficient. This category emphasizes compatibility and interoperability, ensuring that switching modules operate cohesively within the system and adhere to Cisco’s architectural standards.

Hardware Design and Physical Characteristics

Switching modules in the Catalyst 4500 category are built with enterprise-grade hardware components designed for durability and continuous operation. The WS-X4506-GB-T module follows this design approach, featuring a compact form factor that aligns with the slot dimensions of the Catalyst 4500 chassis. Its construction supports hot-swappable functionality, allowing installation or replacement while the chassis remains powered on, provided system guidelines are followed.

Physical design considerations within this category include efficient airflow management, secure port alignment, and robust connector interfaces. These elements ensure that modules maintain optimal operating temperatures and reliable physical connections throughout their lifecycle. The hardware design also reflects Cisco’s emphasis on long-term supportability, enabling extended deployment periods in enterprise data closets and network rooms.

Port and Connectivity Type

The WS-X4506-GB-T module belongs to the subcategory of copper-based Gigabit Ethernet modules. It provides six 10/100/1000BASE-T ports, enabling high-speed connectivity over twisted-pair cabling. This connectivity type remains highly relevant in enterprise environments where structured cabling infrastructures are already in place and fiber deployment may not be necessary or cost-effective.

Within the category, copper Gigabit modules are valued for their versatility and ease of deployment. They support auto-negotiation, allowing connected devices to operate at optimal speeds, and they facilitate straightforward integration with a wide range of endpoints including servers, access switches, and network appliances.

Performance Characteristics and Switching Capabilities

Performance expectations for Catalyst 4500 switching modules are defined by their ability to handle high volumes of traffic with minimal latency. The WS-X4506-GB-T module is designed to deliver wire-speed performance on all supported ports, ensuring that data packets are forwarded efficiently across the chassis fabric. This aligns with the broader category requirement for predictable and consistent throughput.

Switching modules in this category rely on the Catalyst supervisor engine for control-plane processing while handling data-plane forwarding locally. This distributed architecture enhances scalability and resilience, allowing the system to maintain performance even as port density increases. The category emphasizes support for enterprise-grade traffic patterns, including unicast, multicast, and broadcast flows.

Latency and Throughput Considerations

Low latency is a critical factor in enterprise switching environments, particularly for applications such as voice over IP, video conferencing, and real-time data processing. Modules like the WS-X4506-GB-T are engineered to minimize forwarding delays, contributing to overall network responsiveness. Within the category, such performance characteristics support service quality requirements and application-level performance guarantees.

Throughput capabilities are closely tied to the backplane bandwidth of the Catalyst 4500 chassis. The category ensures that switching modules are capable of utilizing available backplane resources efficiently, preventing bottlenecks and maintaining consistent data flow across the network.

Software Compatibility and Feature Support

Cisco Catalyst 4500 switching modules are designed to operate under Cisco IOS Software, enabling access to a wide range of network features and management tools. The WS-X4506-GB-T module aligns with this category standard, supporting configuration and monitoring through the same software framework as the rest of the chassis. This unified approach simplifies network administration and reduces operational complexity.

Feature support within the category includes VLAN segmentation, quality of service mechanisms, link aggregation, and security controls. While specific features may depend on the supervisor engine and software version, the module category is structured to ensure broad compatibility and consistent feature availability across deployments.

Reliability and High Availability Design

Reliability is a core requirement for Catalyst 4500 Series switching modules. The category emphasizes hardware resilience, software stability, and integration with chassis-level redundancy features. The WS-X4506-GB-T module is designed to operate continuously in demanding enterprise environments, benefiting from redundant power supplies and cooling systems provided by the chassis.

High availability is further supported through features such as hot-swappable design and compatibility with redundant supervisor engines. These characteristics ensure that module-level maintenance or upgrades can be performed with minimal impact on network operations, aligning with the category’s focus on uninterrupted service delivery.

Operational Stability in Enterprise Environments

Enterprise networks often operate around the clock, supporting critical business processes. Switching modules within this category are validated for long-term operation under sustained workloads. The WS-X4506-GB-T module adheres to Cisco’s rigorous testing standards, ensuring consistent performance and reduced failure rates over time.

Operational stability is also enhanced by the module’s ability to integrate seamlessly with chassis monitoring systems, enabling early detection of potential issues and timely corrective actions.

Scalability and Deployment Flexibility

Scalability is a defining advantage of the Catalyst 4500 Series platform and its associated switching modules. The WS-X4506-GB-T module supports incremental expansion of network capacity by allowing organizations to add ports as needed. This modular scalability aligns with evolving business requirements and supports phased network upgrades.

Deployment flexibility within this category extends to a variety of network topologies, including access layer expansion, distribution layer aggregation, and specialized connectivity scenarios. The ability to mix different module types within the same chassis further enhances flexibility, enabling customized configurations tailored to specific operational needs.

Use Case Alignment and Industry Adoption

The Catalyst 4500 Series switching module category is widely adopted across industries including education, healthcare, government, and commercial enterprises. The WS-X4506-GB-T module aligns with use cases that require dependable copper-based Gigabit connectivity, such as connecting access switches, servers, and network services appliances within campus environments.

Industry adoption is driven by the category’s balance of performance, reliability, and manageability. Organizations value the ability to standardize on a modular platform that supports diverse connectivity needs while maintaining consistent operational practices.

Enterprise Network Modernization Scenarios

In network modernization initiatives, organizations often seek to upgrade performance without replacing entire infrastructures. The WS-X4506-GB-T module supports such initiatives by enabling targeted enhancements within existing Catalyst 4500 deployments. This category supports gradual modernization strategies that align with budgetary and operational constraints.

By maintaining compatibility with established cabling and network designs, the module category reduces migration complexity and accelerates deployment timelines.