WS-C3750E-48PD-SF Cisco 48-Ports Ethernet Switch

Cisco WS-C3750E-48PD-SF 48-Ports Ethernet Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C3750E-48PD-SF is a high-performance multi-layer Ethernet switch, designed for seamless network management and scalability. Ideal for medium to large enterprises, this 48-port switch delivers robust connectivity and advanced Layer 3 features.

Key Manufacturer Details

• Manufacturer: Cisco
• Model/SKU: WS-C3750E-48PD-SF
• Product Type: Managed Switch
• Ports: 48 Ethernet ports + 2 X2 uplinks

Technical Specifications

Device and Enclosure

• Type: Managed Layer 3 Switch, Stackable
• Form Factor: 1U Rack-mountable

Port Configuration

• 48 × 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports
• 2 × X2 uplink ports for high-speed interconnect
• Supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) for connected devices

Performance & Routing

• MAC Address Table: 12,000 entries
• Supports routing protocols: RIP-1, RIP-2, EIGRP, Static IP Routing, RIPng

Management & Security

• Remote management via SNMP v1/v2c/v3, Telnet, SSH
• RMON support (1, 2, 3, 9) for network monitoring

Advanced Features

• Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching for versatile network operations
• Auto-sensing per device with auto-negotiation
• DHCP support and DHCP snooping for efficient IP management
• VLAN and ARP support for network segmentation
• Auto-uplink (MDI/MDI-X), IGMP snooping, and Syslog integration
• Traffic shaping, broadcast storm control, and QoS for optimized network performance
• Port Aggregation Protocol (PAgP) and Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP)
• IPv6 support and jumbo frames for modern network demands
• Access Control List (ACL) enforcement for security
• TFTP support for firmware and configuration management

Compliance & Standards

• IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3z, 802.3ab
• IEEE 802.1d, 802.1q, 802.1p, 802.1s, 802.1w, 802.1x
• IEEE 802.3af (PoE), 802.3x, 802.3ad (LACP)

Power & Efficiency

• AC Input: 120/230V, 50/60Hz
• Energy-efficient design suitable for enterprise deployments

Cisco WS-C3750E-48PD-SF Multi-Layer Ethernet Switch

The Cisco WS-C3750E-48PD-SF is a high-performance 48-port multi-layer Ethernet switch designed to deliver reliable, scalable, and secure networking solutions for medium to large enterprise environments. As a member of the Cisco Catalyst 3750E Series, this switch provides robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, advanced network management capabilities, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) support. Its modular design and superior hardware architecture allow organizations to handle demanding workloads, increase network efficiency, and reduce downtime.

Key Features and Functionality

This switch offers 48 Fast Ethernet ports, each capable of delivering up to 10/100 Mbps speeds, along with 2 Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) uplinks for flexible connectivity to higher-speed backbone networks. One of the standout features of the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF is its multi-layer switching capability, which combines Layer 2 switching with Layer 3 routing. This enables advanced routing protocols, including OSPF, EIGRP, and RIP, which facilitate efficient traffic management and seamless communication across different network segments.

Power over Ethernet Capabilities

The WS-C3750E-48PD-SF switch supports PoE, providing the ability to power devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras directly over Ethernet cables. This eliminates the need for additional power supplies, reduces infrastructure costs, and simplifies deployment in complex network environments. With a total PoE budget capable of supporting multiple devices simultaneously, businesses can scale their network while maintaining energy efficiency.

Stacking and Scalability

Cisco’s StackWise technology allows multiple WS-C3750E-48PD-SF switches to be interconnected and managed as a single logical unit, providing high availability, simplified management, and increased bandwidth. Up to nine switches can be stacked, offering a combined backplane capacity of 32 Gbps per stack. This feature is particularly valuable in growing enterprises where future network expansion and redundancy are critical. Stacking not only improves performance but also ensures continuous network operation during individual switch maintenance or upgrades.

Advanced Network Management

The switch comes with Cisco IOS Software, which provides a comprehensive suite of management tools, including CLI, SNMP, and web-based interfaces. Network administrators can monitor traffic, configure VLANs, implement Quality of Service (QoS) policies, and perform detailed diagnostics to ensure optimal performance. With advanced features such as Flexible NetFlow and Enhanced Security capabilities, the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF enables granular traffic analysis and helps organizations maintain a secure and efficient network infrastructure.

Enhanced Security Features

Security is a top priority in modern networks, and the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF includes features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, DHCP snooping, and IP source guard to protect against unauthorized access and potential attacks. These measures ensure that sensitive information is safeguarded and that network resources are allocated efficiently. Additionally, the switch supports secure management protocols such as SSH, SNMPv3, and HTTPS, allowing administrators to remotely monitor and configure the network without compromising security.

Energy Efficiency and Reliability

The WS-C3750E-48PD-SF incorporates energy-efficient technologies, including low-power silicon design and intelligent power management, reducing overall energy consumption without sacrificing performance. The switch is designed for continuous operation, featuring redundant power supplies and fans that can be replaced without interrupting network traffic. These design considerations make it a reliable choice for mission-critical enterprise networks that require high uptime and consistent performance.

Layer 2 Switching Capabilities

At the Layer 2 level, the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF provides essential Ethernet switching functions, including VLAN support, trunking, spanning tree protocol, and port aggregation. VLANs allow network segmentation, improving security and reducing broadcast traffic, while trunking and EtherChannel support high-bandwidth connections between switches. Spanning Tree Protocol ensures loop-free topology, preventing network outages and enhancing overall stability. These features make it a versatile solution for enterprises looking to optimize their internal network performance.

VLAN Management and Segmentation

With support for multiple VLANs, administrators can logically segment the network according to department, function, or security level. VLANs improve traffic management, reduce congestion, and enhance security by isolating sensitive resources. The switch also supports dynamic VLAN assignment through protocols like GVRP, enabling automated network configuration and simplified deployment for large-scale networks.

Layer 3 Routing Capabilities

The WS-C3750E-48PD-SF extends beyond traditional switching by offering Layer 3 routing capabilities. It supports static routing and dynamic routing protocols such as OSPF, EIGRP, and RIP, providing flexible inter-VLAN routing and efficient network traffic distribution. By integrating routing directly into the switch, organizations can reduce latency, optimize performance, and simplify the network topology without relying solely on external routers. This multi-layer functionality makes the switch ideal for complex enterprise networks with high traffic demands.

High Availability and Redundancy

To ensure uninterrupted service, the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF is designed with high availability in mind. Features like redundant power supplies, dual-active management, and StackWise virtual chassis technology provide continuous operation even during hardware failures or maintenance. Rapid convergence protocols further enhance network resilience, minimizing downtime and maintaining consistent connectivity across the enterprise environment. Businesses can rely on this switch to support critical applications and communications without interruption.

Deployment Scenarios and Applications

The Cisco WS-C3750E-48PD-SF is suitable for a wide range of deployment scenarios, including enterprise campus networks, data centers, and branch offices. Its combination of Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, PoE capabilities, and high port density make it ideal for environments requiring robust connectivity, reliable performance, and centralized management. Whether supporting voice, video, or data applications, this switch ensures seamless integration and efficient network operation, allowing organizations to meet their growing digital demands.

Campus Networks

In campus environments, the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF can serve as an access or distribution layer switch, connecting endpoints, servers, and wireless access points. Its stacking capabilities allow for scalable expansion while maintaining centralized management. Advanced QoS policies ensure that critical applications such as VoIP and video conferencing receive priority traffic handling, improving user experience and operational efficiency.

Branch Offices

For branch office deployments, the switch provides a compact, energy-efficient solution capable of supporting multiple devices through PoE. Integrated security features protect branch networks from external threats, while Layer 3 routing enables efficient communication with central offices or data centers. Remote management capabilities allow IT teams to monitor and configure branch networks without physical presence, reducing operational costs and complexity.

Data Center Integration

While primarily designed for enterprise campus networks, the WS-C3750E-48PD-SF can also be integrated into smaller data center environments where high-performance access switching and inter-VLAN routing are required. Its SFP uplinks allow for high-speed connectivity to aggregation or core switches, providing flexible data center architecture that supports virtualization and modern workloads. Redundant components and energy-efficient design further ensure reliability and operational cost savings in demanding data center settings.