Switches

Executive SummaryThe Cisco Nexus 3000 Series delivers ultra-low-latency, high-density, and power-efficient switching for next-generation data centers. Supporting speeds from 1G to 100G, full VXLAN/EVPN overlays, and open programmability, it ensures consistent, predictable performance for cloud, HPC, and financial tr...

IntroThe Cisco Nexus 9000 Series defines the next generation of data center networking—combining performance, density, and programmability with dual-mode flexibility (NX-OS and ACI). Designed for scalable architectures and cloud agility, it bridges traditional L2/L3 operations with application-driven automation. Sup...

Introduction - The Short AnswerNo - Cisco Catalyst 9300 stack kits and Cisco Catalyst 9300L stack kits are not compatible with each other. Although both series support stacking, they use different technologies, bandwidths, and physical connectors, preventing cross-model interoperability.Mixing the wrong stack kits o...

Introduction - The Evolution of Cisco StackingIn modern enterprise networks, scalability, availability, and simplified management are top priorities. Traditional switch stacking, such as Cisco’s StackWise-480, revolutionized access and distribution layer designs by simplifying management and ensuring redundancy with...

Introduction - Why Stack Cisco 9300 Switches?In today’s enterprise networking environment, organizations face constant pressure to scale efficiently, ensure uptime, and simplify management without escalating operational complexity. For small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the challenge is even greater: how do y...

One-Minute Selection Cheat Sheet Scenario Recommended Uplink Module Optics / Cables License Key Notes Access 1 G Aggregation C9300-NM-4G SFP 1 G or Copper DNA Essentials / Advantage Entry-level, low cost ...

Quick OverviewThe Cisco Catalyst 3850 series has officially reached its End-of-Sale (EoS) and is nearing End-of-Support (EoL). If your organization still relies on 3850 switches, now is the right time to plan an upgrade to maintain performance, security, and vendor support. ...

Introduction – What is Cisco SMARTnet ?Cisco SMARTnet is Cisco’s flagship support and maintenance program, designed to help organizations keep their networks stable, secure, and future-ready. It’s a service contract that provides: 24/7 access to Cisco’s Technical Assistance Center (TAC) Hardware rep...

Introduction – Understanding the Jumbo Frame ProblemMany network administrators experience dropped packets, iSCSI timeouts, or storage instability after enabling jumbo frames on their Cisco Catalyst 9300 switches. While jumbo frames can significantly improve throughput and reduce CPU overhead, even a single MTU mism...

TL;DR – Quick AnswerMost Cisco enterprise switches - including the Catalyst 2960, 9200, 9300, and higher — have no default username or password. You must create login credentials during the first console-based setup.Only the Cisco Catalyst C1200 and C1300 Series (SMB switches) have factory default credentials: ...