Q1: What does the "T" and "A" mean in the C9200-48T-A model number?
A: In the Catalyst 9200 series naming convention, the "T" indicates that this is a data-only (non-PoE) switch designed for standard wired connectivity. The "A" signifies that it includes the Network Advantage software license, which unlocks advanced enterprise routing and segmentation capabilities.
Q2: Does the Cisco C9200-48T-A support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
A: No, it does not. The C9200-48T-A is optimized for data-only network environments. If your deployment requires powering VoIP phones, IP cameras, or Wi-Fi 6 access points, you should consider the C9200-48P-A model instead.
Q3: What is the main difference between the modular C9200-48T-A and the fixed C9200L-48T-4G-A?
A: The C9200-48T-A is a true enterprise-grade modular switch. It features Field-Replaceable Unit (FRU) redundant cooling fans, an interchangeable uplink slot (supporting 1G or 10G modules), 160 Gbps stacking bandwidth, and hardware support for up to 4 Virtual Networks in SD-Access. The C9200L series uses fixed fans, fixed uplinks, and supports only 1 Virtual Network.
Q4: What advanced features are unlocked with the Network Advantage license on this switch?
A: The Network Advantage license transforms the switch into a powerful edge routing platform. It enables full enterprise routing protocols such as EIGRP, IS-IS, and Full OSPF, along with advanced network segmentation features including VRF, VXLAN, LISP, and SGT for zero-trust architectures.
Q5: Which uplink network modules (NM) are compatible with the C9200-48T-A?
A: This model supports the C9200-NM-4G module (four 1G SFP ports) and the C9200-NM-4X module (four 1/10G SFP+ ports), allowing flexible uplink scalability.
Q6: Can I install a 25G or 40G uplink module in this Gigabit switch?
A: No. The 25G (C9200-NM-2Y) and 40G (C9200-NM-2Q) uplink modules are exclusively supported on Catalyst 9200 Multigigabit (PXG) models and are not compatible with this standard Gigabit switch.
Q7: Does the C9200-48T-A support BGP routing?
A: No. Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is not supported on standard Catalyst 9200 or 9200L series switches, even with the Network Advantage license. BGP is only available on the compact C9200CX models.
Q8: What power supply comes standard with this switch?
A: Because it does not provide PoE power, the switch is highly energy-efficient and ships with a compact 125W AC primary power supply (PWR-C6-125WAC). A secondary 125W PSU can be added for 1+1 power redundancy.
Q9: Are the cooling fans field-replaceable (FRU)?
A: Yes. As a modular enterprise-grade switch, it includes FRU redundant cooling fans (FAN-T2=), allowing hot-swapping without interrupting network operations.
Q10: What is the actual switching capacity and performance of this 48-port model?
A: It delivers a non-blocking switching capacity of 176 Gbps and a wire-speed forwarding rate of 130.95 Mpps, ensuring consistent performance across all 48 Gigabit ports and 10G uplinks.
Q11: Can I stack the C9200-48T-A with my existing C9200L switches?
A: No. Mixed stacking is not supported. Modular C9200 switches can only be stacked with other modular C9200 switches running the same license tier, using the StackWise-160 architecture (supporting up to 8 switches).
Q12: What is the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) for this switch?
A: Due to the absence of PoE-related thermal load, the C9200-48T-A achieves a high MTBF of 571,440 hours, making it a reliable choice for continuous enterprise operations.