WS-C3750V2-24FS-S Cisco Catalyst 3750V2 Switch (24 Ports)

Cisco Catalyst 3750V2 Fiber Ethernet Switch Overview

The Cisco WS-C3750V2-24FS-S Catalyst 3750V2 is designed for enterprise-grade networking environments that demand reliable fiber connectivity, advanced traffic control, and scalable switching performance. This managed Layer 3 switch integrates Fast Ethernet fiber ports with flexible uplink options to support growing network infrastructures.

Product Identity and Classification

• Brand: Cisco
• Model Series: Catalyst 3750V2
• SKU / Part Number: WS-C3750V2-24FS-S
• Network Device Type: Managed Ethernet Switch
• Total Port Count: 24 ports

Hardware Design and Physical Characteristics

Chassis and Installation

• Rack-ready 1U enclosure for standard data center cabinets
• StackWise support for simplified scalability and unified management
• Durable grey metal housing suitable for continuous operation
• Integrated LED indicators for real-time system and port status

Dimensions and Weight

• Width: 174.6 mm
• Depth: 116.2 mm
• Height: 17.3 mm
• Approximate Weight: 10 LBS

Switching Performance and Architecture

Managed Layer 3 Capabilities

• Advanced Layer 3 switching with IP routing support
• High-performance switching capacity up to 32 Gbps
• Packet forwarding rate reaching 6.5 million packets per second
• Optimized data handling with jumbo frame compatibility

Traffic Handling and Optimization

• Automatic MDI/MDI-X detection for simplified cabling
• Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing critical applications
• Efficient multicast traffic management via IGMP snooping

Port Configuration and Expansion Options

Fiber and Ethernet Interfaces

• 24 Fast Ethernet 100BASE-FX fiber ports for secure long-distance links
• 2 Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 uplink ports
• 26 SFP slots enabling flexible fiber module deployment

Supported Media Types

• Copper standards: 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T
• Fiber standards: 1000BASE-SX, LX, LH, ZX

Networking Standards and Protocol Compatibility

IEEE Compliance

• IEEE 802.1D Spanning Tree Protocol
• IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging
• IEEE 802.1p traffic prioritization
• IEEE 802.1w and 802.1s for rapid and multiple spanning trees
• IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab, and 802.3z Ethernet standards

Routing and Network Protocols

• Static routing and RIP support
• IPv4 and IPv6 protocol compatibility
• Reliable transport using TCP/IP networking

VLAN, Addressing, and Network Scalability

Advanced Network Segmentation

• Support for up to 1,000 virtual LANs
• MAC address table capacity of 12,000 entries
• Improved broadcast control for large-scale deployments

Security, Control, and Administration

Network Protection Features

• 802.1X authentication with RADIUS integration
• Configurable Access Control Lists (ACLs)
• MAC address-based filtering for enhanced access control

Monitoring and Management Tools

• SNMP v1, v2, and v3 support for centralized management
• Web-based graphical interface for simplified configuration
• System event logging for proactive troubleshooting

Power Requirements and Environmental Tolerance

Electrical Specifications

• Universal AC input ranging from 100 to 240 volts
• Input frequency support between 50 and 60 Hz
• Operational power consumption up to 160 watts

Environmental Operating Conditions

• Operating temperature range: 0°C to 45°C
• Storage temperature tolerance: -25°C to 70°C
• Humidity support from 10% to 85% non-condensing
• Operational altitude capability up to 3,000 meters

Enterprise-Grade Optical Ethernet Switching Architecture

The Cisco WS-C3750V2-24FS-S Catalyst 3750V2 Ethernet Switch belongs to a specialized category of enterprise access-layer switches engineered to deliver reliable optical Ethernet connectivity in high-density network environments. This category focuses on fiber-based Fast Ethernet switching, emphasizing extended distance transmission, electromagnetic immunity, and deterministic performance across campus, industrial, and service provider edge networks. With twenty-four 100BASE-FX fiber ports complemented by two Small Form-Factor Pluggable uplink interfaces, this class of switches is designed for organizations that require stable fiber access without compromising Cisco Catalyst reliability and software intelligence.

Role of 100BASE-FX Fiber Switching in Modern Networks

Fiber-based Fast Ethernet remains relevant in many enterprise and institutional deployments where copper cabling is unsuitable due to distance, electrical interference, or environmental constraints. The 100BASE-FX standard enables data transmission over multimode fiber, supporting longer cable runs than traditional twisted-pair Ethernet. Switches in this category act as aggregation points for optical endpoints such as building-to-building links, factory floor devices, campus access nodes, and legacy fiber infrastructures that still depend on Fast Ethernet signaling.

Optical Media Advantages in Access Layer Design

The use of fiber optic interfaces ensures signal integrity across extended distances, making these switches ideal for distributed network topologies. Optical media eliminates susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, ensuring consistent throughput in electrically noisy environments. This advantage is particularly valuable in manufacturing plants, transportation facilities, healthcare campuses, and educational institutions where reliable connectivity is essential.

Compatibility with Existing Fiber Infrastructure

Switches in this category are optimized for compatibility with existing multimode fiber installations, allowing organizations to extend the life of deployed cabling assets. This reduces upgrade costs while maintaining dependable network performance. The Cisco WS-C3750V2-24FS-S is aligned with these requirements, offering a seamless fit into established fiber-based access networks.

Catalyst 3750V2 Series Design Philosophy

The Catalyst 3750V2 series represents Cisco’s commitment to scalable, stackable switching solutions that simplify network expansion while maintaining centralized management. This category emphasizes modular growth, operational consistency, and robust Layer 2 and basic Layer 3 capabilities suitable for enterprise access and distribution layers. The WS-C3750V2-24FS-S model specifically addresses environments where fiber connectivity is the primary medium.

StackWise Technology for Unified Switching

StackWise technology defines this switch category by enabling multiple physical switches to operate as a single logical unit. This capability simplifies network design by allowing administrators to manage several switches through a single configuration and IP address. It also enhances redundancy by distributing traffic and control across the stack, ensuring that network services remain available even if one member experiences a failure.

Scalability Without Complexity

Stackable fiber switches offer the ability to scale port density without introducing additional management overhead. Organizations can expand network capacity by adding switches to the stack while preserving consistent performance and configuration policies. This approach is especially beneficial in growing campuses or industrial environments where incremental expansion is common.

Operational Consistency Across the Stack

Uniform software images and synchronized configurations across stacked switches ensure predictable behavior and simplified troubleshooting. This consistency is a defining characteristic of the Catalyst 3750V2 category, making it a preferred choice for IT teams seeking operational efficiency.

Standard Image Software Capabilities

The Standard Image software defines a balanced feature set that supports essential switching and routing functions required at the access layer. This category is positioned to deliver dependable Layer 2 switching with selective Layer 3 features that enable basic inter-VLAN routing and network segmentation. The software architecture prioritizes stability, security, and ease of deployment.

Layer 2 Switching Excellence

At its core, this category excels in Layer 2 Ethernet switching, supporting VLAN segmentation, trunking, and spanning tree protocols that maintain loop-free network topologies. These capabilities are critical in environments with multiple interconnected access switches and redundant fiber links.

Basic Layer 3 Awareness

While primarily focused on Layer 2 functionality, the Standard Image includes limited Layer 3 features that allow for efficient routing between VLANs at the access layer. This reduces reliance on centralized routers and improves traffic flow within local network segments.

Security and Network Control Features

Switches in this category integrate essential security mechanisms such as port security, access control lists, and network monitoring capabilities. These features help protect network resources and ensure compliance with organizational security policies without adding unnecessary complexity.

Fiber Port Density and Network Aggregation

The defining characteristic of this category is its high-density fiber port configuration. Twenty-four 100BASE-FX ports provide ample connectivity for optical endpoints, enabling efficient aggregation of fiber links within a compact form factor. This density supports centralized fiber distribution points in large facilities or campus environments.

Efficient Use of Rack Space

High port density within a single rack unit reduces the physical footprint of the access layer, allowing organizations to maximize data center and wiring closet space. This efficiency is particularly valuable in environments with limited rack capacity or high equipment density.

Consistent Performance Across All Ports

Each fiber port delivers consistent Fast Ethernet performance, ensuring predictable throughput for connected devices. This uniformity is essential for applications that rely on stable latency and bandwidth characteristics.

Integration with Fiber Distribution Frames

The design of this category aligns with standard fiber distribution practices, allowing straightforward integration with patch panels and distribution frames. This compatibility simplifies installation and ongoing maintenance.

SFP Uplink Flexibility

The inclusion of two SFP uplink interfaces extends the versatility of this switch category by enabling flexible connectivity to upstream distribution or core switches. These uplinks support a range of fiber transceivers, allowing organizations to tailor link distance and performance to their specific network topology.

Adaptable Backbone Connectivity

SFP uplinks provide adaptability in backbone connections, supporting multimode or single-mode fiber as required. This flexibility ensures seamless integration into diverse network architectures, from compact campuses to geographically dispersed facilities.

Optimized Traffic Flow

By aggregating access-layer traffic through dedicated uplinks, this category ensures efficient data flow toward the core network. This design minimizes congestion and supports consistent application performance across the network.

Future-Proof Uplink Options

The modular nature of SFP interfaces allows organizations to upgrade uplink transceivers as network requirements evolve, extending the useful life of the switch hardware.

Reliability and Availability in Mission-Critical Networks

Reliability is a cornerstone of this category, reflecting Cisco’s focus on enterprise-grade hardware design and software stability. The Catalyst 3750V2 family is engineered to deliver continuous operation in demanding environments where downtime is unacceptable.

Redundant Network Paths

Support for advanced spanning tree protocols and link aggregation ensures that redundant fiber paths can be deployed without creating network loops. This redundancy enhances availability and resilience against link failures.

Hardware Quality and Longevity

Enterprise-grade components and rigorous testing contribute to the long operational lifespan of switches in this category. This durability makes them suitable for environments with extended deployment cycles and limited maintenance windows.

Operational Stability Under Load

The switching architecture is designed to maintain stability even under sustained traffic loads, ensuring reliable performance for connected devices and applications.

Use Cases Across Industries

This category of fiber-based Ethernet switches serves a wide range of industries and deployment scenarios. From educational campuses to industrial automation networks, the combination of optical connectivity and enterprise software features addresses diverse operational needs.

Campus and Educational Networks

In educational environments, fiber access switches support inter-building connectivity and centralized network management. The ability to stack switches simplifies administration across large campuses with multiple wiring closets.

Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities

Fiber connectivity is ideal for industrial settings where electrical interference is common. Switches in this category provide stable communication between control systems, monitoring devices, and centralized management platforms.

Healthcare and Government Institutions

Healthcare and government networks benefit from the reliability, security, and manageability of enterprise fiber switches. The Catalyst 3750V2 category supports mission-critical applications where data integrity and availability are paramount.

Energy Efficiency and Operational Cost Control

Energy efficiency is an important consideration in enterprise network design. This category balances performance with power consumption, helping organizations manage operational costs while maintaining reliable connectivity.

Optimized Power Utilization

The hardware design emphasizes efficient power usage without sacrificing performance. This efficiency contributes to lower energy costs over the lifespan of the deployment.

Thermal Management and Cooling

Effective thermal design ensures stable operation in standard data center and wiring closet environments. Proper airflow and cooling reduce the risk of overheating and extend hardware longevity.

Lower Total Cost of Ownership

By combining durability, efficiency, and manageable scalability, switches in this category deliver a favorable total cost of ownership for long-term enterprise deployments.

Integration Within Cisco Network Ecosystems

The Catalyst 3750V2 category is designed to integrate seamlessly with broader Cisco network architectures. Compatibility with Cisco management tools and protocols simplifies deployment and ongoing operations.

Centralized Network Management

Support for Cisco management platforms enables centralized monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting. This integration enhances visibility and control across the network infrastructure.

Interoperability with Other Catalyst Switches

Consistency across the Catalyst product line ensures smooth interoperability with other access, distribution, and core switches. This uniformity supports standardized network designs and simplifies upgrades.

Alignment with Enterprise Networking Best Practices

The design principles and feature set of this category align with established enterprise networking best practices, making it a trusted choice for organizations seeking reliable fiber-based access switching solutions.