WS-C3560E-48TD-E Cisco Ethernet Switch (48-Ports)

Cisco WS-C3560E-48TD-E 48-Port Ethernet Switch 

The Cisco WS-C3560E-48TD-E, part of the Catalyst 3560-E series, is a high-performance Layer 3 Ethernet switch engineered for enterprise-grade network environments. With its robust capabilities, this switch ensures reliable connectivity, exceptional scalability, and advanced traffic management for medium to large-scale organizations.

Key Features and Device Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Part Number: WS-C3560E-48TD-E
• Series: 3560-E
• Device Type: Layer 3 Managed Switch
• Full Model Name: Catalyst 3550 48-Port Multi-Layer Ethernet Switch

Network Connectivity and Port

• Total Network Ports: 48
• RJ-45 Ports: 48
• Port Configuration: 48 x Gigabit Ethernet
• Supported Network Technologies: 10Base-T, 100Base-TX, 1000Base-T

Media Type and Cable Standards

• Media Type: Twisted Pair (TP)
• Cable Standard: Category 5 (Cat5)
• Ethernet Standards Supported: Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps)

Performance and Traffic Management

• Supports Layer 3 routing for VLAN segmentation and inter-VLAN communication
• High throughput with minimal latency across all 48 ports
• Enhanced quality of service (QoS) for prioritizing critical applications
• Energy-efficient design reduces power consumption without compromising performance

Expansion and Scalability Options

• Total Expansion Slots: 2
• Expansion Slot Type: X2 modules for additional uplinks or specialized network modules

Layer 3 Capabilities and Enterprise Integration

• Static and dynamic routing for optimized network paths
• Support for OSPF, EIGRP, and RIP routing protocols
• VLAN segmentation for enhanced network security and performance
• Advanced multicast support for efficient video and streaming services

Energy-Efficient and Reliable Operation

• Complies with Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) standards
• Reduces operational costs through intelligent power management
• High MTBF ensures long-term reliability and consistent uptime

Use Cases and Ideal Applications

• Enterprise office networks with multiple VLANs and heavy traffic
• Campus networks requiring scalable and reliable connectivity
• Data centers supporting high-bandwidth applications and server aggregation
• Industrial environments needing robust network management and monitoring

Advanced Security and Network Management

• Port security to prevent unauthorized access
• Access control lists (ACLs) for traffic filtering
• Support for SNMP, RMON, and Cisco Network Assistant for centralized management
• IPv6 support for future-proof networking

Cisco WS-C3560E-48TD-E 48-Ports Ethernet Switch

The Cisco WS-C3560E-48TD-E is a high-performance Ethernet switch designed for modern enterprise networks. It belongs to the Catalyst 3560-E series, offering a robust solution for organizations that require reliable connectivity, scalable architecture, and advanced network management capabilities. This 48-port switch provides extensive support for Power over Ethernet (PoE) and supports advanced Layer 3 routing protocols, making it suitable for medium to large-scale deployments in corporate, educational, and data center environments.

Advanced Performance and Switching Capabilities

The WS-C3560E-48TD-E is engineered to deliver consistent high-speed performance across all ports. Each of the 48 Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet ports provides exceptional data throughput, ensuring minimal latency and maximum reliability. The switch leverages Cisco's enhanced hardware architecture to efficiently handle high volumes of data traffic, reducing bottlenecks and enabling seamless communication across multiple network segments.

Layer 3 Routing and Network Optimization

As part of the Catalyst 3560-E series, this switch supports advanced Layer 3 routing features. It can efficiently manage routing protocols such as OSPF, EIGRP, and RIP, allowing networks to dynamically adjust to changing traffic patterns. These capabilities optimize data flow, reduce congestion, and enhance overall network performance. Additionally, the WS-C3560E-48TD-E incorporates sophisticated Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms, ensuring prioritization of critical applications and latency-sensitive traffic like voice and video.

Power over Ethernet and Energy Efficiency

One of the key features of the WS-C3560E-48TD-E is its comprehensive PoE support. Each port is capable of delivering power directly to connected devices, including IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras, eliminating the need for separate power supplies and simplifying network deployment. Furthermore, Cisco’s EnergyWise technology enables intelligent power management, optimizing energy consumption while maintaining peak operational efficiency across the entire network.

Scalability and Flexibility for Growing Networks

The WS-C3560E-48TD-E switch is designed to adapt to the evolving requirements of enterprise networks. It supports stacking capabilities, allowing multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit. This enhances scalability, simplifies management, and provides increased redundancy and resiliency. The switch’s modular architecture also allows for easy upgrades, ensuring long-term investment protection and enabling organizations to expand their network infrastructure seamlessly as business demands grow.

Security and Network Protection

Security is a fundamental consideration in modern networking, and the WS-C3560E-48TD-E incorporates comprehensive measures to safeguard network assets. The switch supports IEEE 802.1X authentication, dynamic VLAN assignment, and advanced access control lists (ACLs) to enforce network policies. Additionally, Cisco’s TrustSec technology provides role-based access control, ensuring that only authorized users and devices can access sensitive network resources. These features collectively enhance the overall security posture of enterprise networks, protecting against unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Management and Monitoring Capabilities

The Cisco WS-C3560E-48TD-E offers a wide array of management and monitoring tools to streamline network administration. Cisco’s IOS software provides a consistent command-line interface, enabling granular configuration and operational control. The switch is fully compatible with Cisco Prime Infrastructure, offering centralized monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance analysis. SNMP, NetFlow, and Syslog support further enhance visibility into network operations, allowing administrators to proactively detect and resolve potential issues before they impact network performance.

Redundancy and High Availability

Enterprise networks demand high availability and minimal downtime, and the WS-C3560E-48TD-E addresses these requirements with robust redundancy features. It supports redundant power supplies and fans, ensuring uninterrupted operation even during hardware failures. Cisco’s StackWise technology enables rapid failover between stacked switches, maintaining continuous network connectivity. Additionally, advanced spanning tree protocols prevent network loops while providing fast convergence, further enhancing reliability and uptime for mission-critical applications.

Integration with Cisco Ecosystem

The WS-C3560E-48TD-E seamlessly integrates with the broader Cisco networking ecosystem, including wireless controllers, security appliances, and network management solutions. This interoperability allows organizations to build cohesive, end-to-end network architectures that deliver consistent performance, simplified management, and improved operational efficiency. The switch also supports Cisco’s Application Visibility and Control (AVC) features, enabling granular traffic analysis and application-level prioritization, enhancing user experience across the network.

Deployment Scenarios and Use Cases

The 48-port WS-C3560E-48TD-E switch is suitable for a wide range of deployment scenarios. In enterprise campuses, it can function as a core or distribution layer switch, aggregating traffic from access switches and providing high-speed uplinks. In branch offices, it serves as a compact, reliable solution for connecting multiple end devices while maintaining advanced routing and security capabilities. Educational institutions can leverage its PoE capabilities to power wireless access points and IP-based classroom technology, while small data centers benefit from its high-density ports and Layer 3 routing performance.

Technical Specifications and Hardware Features

The WS-C3560E-48TD-E is built with high-quality hardware components to ensure reliable performance and longevity. Key specifications include 48 Ethernet 10/100/1000 ports, two dual-purpose uplink ports for fiber or copper connectivity, and support for up to 32 Gigabit Ethernet ports with PoE. The switch provides a forwarding capacity sufficient for gigabit-level throughput across all ports, while maintaining low latency and high packet-per-second performance. The chassis design supports front-to-back airflow, simplifying installation in standard racks and maintaining optimal thermal efficiency.

Software Capabilities and Licensing Options

The Catalyst 3560-E series runs Cisco IOS Software, offering a rich set of Layer 2 and Layer 3 features. The WS-C3560E-48TD-E supports advanced routing, multicast, security, and QoS functionalities. Flexible licensing options allow organizations to tailor features according to their specific requirements, ensuring maximum return on investment. Software updates and feature enhancements are available through Cisco’s maintenance programs, ensuring that the switch remains up-to-date with the latest networking innovations and security standards.

Future-Proof Networking Solution

As enterprise networks continue to evolve, the Cisco WS-C3560E-48TD-E provides a future-proof solution that can accommodate growing bandwidth demands and new technologies. Its scalable architecture, advanced management features, and extensive interoperability with other Cisco devices ensure that organizations can adapt to emerging networking trends without significant infrastructure changes. Whether deployed as part of a campus network, a branch office, or a small data center, this switch offers reliable, high-performance connectivity for years to come.