The Cisco C9300-48TA is a Layer 3 enterprise switch designed for dense access and aggregation environments. This model is now available online, offering flexible deployment options for campus and branch networks.
Built on the latest hardware and software platform, it combines wired access with advanced IP services and robust security. Below you will find a detailed overview, specifications, deployment guidance, and answers to common questions.
Quick Overview of the C9300-48TA
| Feature | Specification | Benefit | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model | C9300-48TA | 48 10/100/1000BASE-T ports with 2 dual-purpose uplinks | Available online now |
| Switching Capacity | 320 Gbps | High throughput for access layer aggregation | In stock |
| Forwarding Rate | 96 Mpps | Line-rate performance for enterprise workloads | Ships in 1–2 business days |
| IPv4 Unicast Routes | 16,000 | Scalable Layer 3 for large campus designs | Online orders supported |
| StackWise-480 | Up to 9 devices, 480 Gbps bandwidth | Simplified management and resilience | Available for immediate procurement |
Design and Deployment Options
Physical Form Factor and Ports
The C9300-48TA provides 48 fixed 10/100/1000BASE-T ports and two 10GBASE-T or Small Form-factor Pluggable ports. This design supports high-density access with flexible uplink options for campus aggregation.
Power over Ethernet and Redundancy
It supports Cisco UPOE with power budgets suitable for demanding access points and IP phones. Redundant power supplies and fan trays enhance availability for enterprise environments.
StackWise-480 and High Availability
StackWise-480 technology allows up to nine units to operate as a single logical switch. Features like stateful switchover and nonstop forwarding reduce downtime during maintenance or failure scenarios.
Security and Access Control Features
Integrated Threat Defense
The platform includes hardware-accelerated security features such as MACsec, TrustSec, and Segment Routing for microsegmentation. These capabilities help protect data flows and enforce consistent policies across the campus network.
Identity-Based Services
Support for 802.1X, MAB, and guest profiling enables role-based access control. You can apply policies dynamically based on user identity, device type, and location.
Compliance and Management
Built-in support for secure device onboarding and integration with Cisco Identity Services Engine streamlines policy enforcement and auditing.
Performance and Capacity Planning
Throughput and Latency
With a switching capacity of 320 Gbps and a forwarding rate of 96 Mpps, the C9300-48TA handles mixed traffic patterns, including video, voice, and data, without bottlenecks.
IPv4 and IPv6 Readiness
Dual-stack IPv4 and IPv6 support ensures compatibility with evolving network standards. The substantial routing table size allows for growth in large, hierarchical campus designs.
Management and Monitoring
Telemetry and NetFlow provide deep visibility into application performance. Automation tools such as Cisco DNA Center simplify provisioning, policy management, and troubleshooting.
Recommendations and Next Steps
- Verify PoE requirements for your endpoints before ordering power supplies and cables.
- Evaluate stack size and routing table capacity based on your long‑term campus design.
- Plan integration with Cisco DNA Center or your preferred automation platform for centralized management.
- Review warranty and support options to align with operational needs.
- Compare fixed configuration versus modular options for future expansion scenarios.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is the Cisco C9300-48TA suitable for a large campus access layer?
Yes, its high port density, Layer 3 capabilities, and StackWise-480 scalability make it ideal for campus access aggregation at scale.
What power options does the C9300-48TA support for PoE devices?
It supports Cisco UPOE, delivering up to 60W per port on selected ports, which is sufficient for high-power Wi‑Fi 6 access points and IP phones.
Can this switch be deployed in a branch office with limited IT staff?
Yes, when combined with Cisco DNA Center, the switch simplifies configuration and policy enforcement, reducing the need for on-site expertise.
How does the C9300-48TA handle future network upgrades and application demands?
The combination of high forwarding capacity, extensive route scalability, and software-defined architecture supports future applications and higher device counts without hardware replacement.