WS-C2948G-GE-TX Cisco Catalyst Ethernet Switch (48-Port)

Enterprise-Grade Cisco Catalyst Gigabit Ethernet Switch

The Cisco WS-C2948G-GE-TX Catalyst Switch is a high-performance, rack-mountable networking solution designed for reliable Layer 2 switching in business and enterprise environments. Built with Cisco’s proven hardware quality, this switch ensures stable connectivity, scalability, and efficient network traffic management.

Product Identity and Manufacturer Details

• Brand Name: Cisco Systems
• Model / SKU: WS-C2948G-GE-TX
• Product Category: Managed Network Switch
• Installation Type: Rack-mountable (1U form factor)

Port Configuration and Connectivity Options

The Cisco WS-C2948G-GE-TX delivers flexible and high-speed connectivity suitable for modern network infrastructures.

Ethernet Interfaces

• 48 x Ethernet ports supporting 10Base-T, 100Base-TX, and 1000Base-T
• High-speed data throughput up to 1 Gbps

Expansion Capabilities

• 4 x SFP (mini-GBIC) slots for fiber or uplink expansion

Networking Standards and Protocol Support

• Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet compatibility
• Supports half-duplex and full-duplex communication modes

Physical Specifications and Build Quality

This Cisco Catalyst switch is engineered to fit standard server racks while maintaining durability and efficient airflow.

Dimensions and Weight

• Width x Depth x Height: 17.5 in x 17 in x 1.7 in
• Approximate Weight: 13 lbs

Hardware Performance and Memory

Optimized internal resources ensure smooth data handling and consistent performance across all ports.

Memory Configuration

• Installed RAM: 64 MB
• Flash Storage: 16 MB

Advanced Management and Security Features

This managed Cisco switch includes comprehensive monitoring, control, and security functionalities to maintain network integrity.

Remote Management Protocols

• SNMP v1, v2c, and v3
• RMON and RMON 2
• Telnet-based administration

Switching and Network Features

• Layer 2 switching architecture
• VLAN configuration and trunking support
• Auto-negotiation and flow control
• IGMP snooping for optimized multicast traffic
• Integrated DHCP support
• Built-in Intrusion Detection System (IDS)

Power Requirements and Efficiency

Designed for global deployment, this Cisco Catalyst switch supports a wide range of power inputs.

Power Specifications

• AC input: 110–230V
• Frequency: 50/60 Hz

Architectural Overview and Core Design Philosophy

The WS-C2948G-GE-TX was built with a clear purpose: to bring Gigabit Ethernet to the desktop and server edge in a scalable, manageable form factor. Its architecture is a testament to Cisco's focus on creating purpose-driven switches that balance raw throughput with intelligent switching features.

Switch Fabric and Performance Metrics

At its heart, the switch boasts a non-blocking switch fabric that provides over 100 Gbps of aggregate bandwidth. This ensures that all 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports can operate at full wire speed simultaneously, a critical capability for bandwidth-intensive workgroups or server farm aggregation. The packet forwarding rate stands at an impressive 71.4 million packets per second (Mpps), minimizing latency and ensuring smooth data flow even under heavy load conditions.

ASIC-Based Forwarding Engine

The switching performance is driven by custom Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). These dedicated processors handle frame forwarding, filtering, and QoS operations in hardware, guaranteeing line-rate performance regardless of the enabled software features. This hardware-based approach is a hallmark of the Catalyst series, providing deterministic and reliable switching behavior.

Form Factor and Physical Design

The switch occupies a standard 1U rack-mount form factor, making it ideal for space-constrained wiring closets. Its design emphasizes serviceability and durability, with front-accessible ports and status LEDs for easy monitoring. The robust metal chassis aids in heat dissipation, contributing to the platform's renowned longevity.

Comprehensive Feature Set and Network Services

Beyond pure connectivity, the Catalyst 2948G-GE-TX is embedded with a rich suite of features designed to enhance network control, security, and traffic prioritization.

Advanced VLAN and Layer 2 Capabilities

The switch operates primarily as a sophisticated Layer 2 switch. It supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN trunking, allowing network administrators to segment the network into multiple logical broadcast domains for improved security and traffic management. Features like VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP) simplify VLAN configuration across a Cisco-dominated network. Additionally, it offers robust Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) implementations, including Per-VLAN Spanning Tree (PVST+), to prevent network loops and ensure topological resilience.

Port Security and Access Control

Basic network security is enforced through features like port security, which allows administrators to restrict MAC addresses on a per-port basis, mitigating unauthorized access. While it lacks advanced Layer 3 routing features (as it is a Layer 2 switch), its ACL (Access Control List) capabilities can filter traffic based on Layer 2, 3, and 4 information when used in conjunction with a routed interface for management.

Quality of Service (QoS) for Traffic Prioritization

In converged networks carrying voice, video, and data, QoS is paramount. The 2948G-GE-TX supports classification, policing, marking, and queuing based on IEEE 802.1p Class of Service (CoS) and IP Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP). This ensures that latency-sensitive traffic, such as VoIP phone calls, receives priority through the switch, maintaining call quality and user experience.

Management and Control Interfaces

Effective management is key to any network device. This Cisco switch offers multiple pathways for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

Command-Line Interface (CLI) and Cisco IOS Software

The switch runs a dedicated version of Cisco's Internetwork Operating System (IOS). The IOS CLI provides granular control over all switch functions and is the preferred tool for experienced network engineers. Its syntax is consistent with other Catalyst switches, reducing the learning curve and enabling efficient scripting for automated configurations.

Web-Based Management and SNMP

For administrators who prefer a graphical interface, the switch offers a web-based management tool via an embedded web server. Furthermore, full Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) v1, v2c, and v3 support allows for integration into enterprise network management systems like CiscoWorks, SolarWinds, or WhatsUp Gold for centralized monitoring, alerting, and performance trending.

Console and Out-of-Band Management

A dedicated RS-232 serial console port provides out-of-band management access, crucial for initial setup, password recovery, or troubleshooting when network connectivity is lost. This ensures the device is always accessible and manageable.

Deployment Scenarios and Ideal Use Cases

Understanding where the Cisco WS-C2948G-GE-TX fits within a network topology is essential for evaluating its relevance. While considered a legacy device, it remains functionally excellent for specific applications.

Workgroup and Departmental Switching

The primary design case was for high-performance workgroup aggregation. Deploying it in a wiring closet to connect 48 end-users or stations with Gigabit Ethernet provided a massive leap in performance over older 10/100 Fast Ethernet switches, dramatically improving file transfer times and application responsiveness.

Server Farm Aggregation

With its high port density and non-blocking backplane, the switch was often utilized as a top-of-rack (ToR) or end-of-row (EoR) aggregation switch for server clusters. Connecting multiple servers at Gigabit speeds to a central switch optimized east-west traffic within the server farm before uplinking to a core router or Layer 3 switch.

Backbone for Legacy or Isolated Networks

In environments where modernization cycles are extended, such as industrial control systems, laboratories, or training facilities, this Catalyst switch provides a stable, predictable, and isolated network backbone. Its lack of modern security vulnerabilities (by virtue of its older code base) can be an advantage in air-gapped or strictly controlled networks.

Compatibility, Integration, and Power Considerations

Integrating the 2948G-GE-TX into a network requires consideration of its technical specifications and dependencies.

Uplink Options and Network Integration

The switch features two dedicated Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) slots for flexible uplink connectivity. Administrators could choose from a variety of Cisco GBIC modules, including 1000BASE-SX (multimode fiber), 1000BASE-LX/LH (single-mode fiber), or 1000BASE-T (copper) to connect to distribution or core layer switches. This flexibility allowed for cost-effective media choices based on distance and existing cable plant.

Power Supply and Environmental Specifications

The unit is equipped with a fixed, internal AC power supply. It is designed for operation in standard office environments with defined ranges for temperature and humidity. Unlike modern switches with PoE capabilities, the 2948G-GE-TX does not provide Power over Ethernet, meaning connected devices like IP phones or wireless access points required separate power sources.

Software and Feature Set Dependencies

The capabilities of the switch are tied to its specific IOS software image. Different standard and enhanced feature sets were available from Cisco, with the enhanced images unlocking more advanced QoS and security functionalities. Ensuring the correct IOS version is loaded is crucial for planned deployments.

Considerations for Modern Networks and Legacy Context

While a powerful device in its era, positioning the Catalyst 2948G-GE-TX in today's network landscape requires a clear-eyed assessment.

Performance in a Contemporary Context

While its 48 Gigabit ports are still functionally adequate for many basic connectivity needs, it lacks the 10 Gigabit uplinks, Power over Ethernet (PoE/PoE+), advanced Layer 3 routing, energy-efficient Ethernet, and modern management APIs found in current-generation switches. Its switching capacity is dwarfed by modern top-of-rack and aggregation switches.

End-of-Life Status and Support Implications

Cisco has announced End-of-Life (EOL) and End-of-Support for the Catalyst 2948G series. This means no new software updates, security patches, or hardware warranties are available from Cisco. Sourcing replacement units or components relies on the secondary market. This status makes it unsuitable for mission-critical production environments requiring vendor support.