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When it comes to building a robust and scalable network infrastructure, selecting the appropriate switch is important. Two leading solutions are Cisco Catalyst 9300 series and Cisco Catalyst 9500 series — each designed for distinct use cases. This article is here to help you compare them closely and make a decision.
Cisco Catalyst 9300 and 9500 Series Overview
Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series
The Catalyst 9300 Series is Cisco’s leading stackable enterprise access switching platform. Deployed for high-performance access-layer deployments, it provides advanced security features, automation and cloud management capabilities. There are models with up to 48 ports in the series, so if you need additional flexibility in your network design, there are options available.
Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series
The Catalyst 9500 Series is Cisco’s premier fixed-core and aggregation enterprise switching platform. Designed for high-density, high-performance environment, support for advanced routing protocols, high-speed uplinks, and robust security features. With up to 60 ports, the series meets modern enterprise network requirements.
10 Factors Comparison between 9300 and 9500 Series
| Feature | Catalyst 9300 | Catalyst 9500 |
| Port Density | Up to 48 ports (1G, Multigigabit, 10G) | Up to 60 ports (10G, 25G, 40G, 100G) |
| Uplink Options | Modular uplinks (1G, 10G, 25G, 40G) | Fixed uplinks (10G, 25G, 40G, 100G) |
| Power Supply Options | Dual redundant power supplies (350W, 715W, 1100W) | Dual redundant power supplies (varies by model) |
| Stacking Technology | StackWise-1T (1 Tbps) for modular models | StackWise Virtual (supports up to 2 switches) |
| Form Factor | 1U rack-mountable | 1U rack-mountable |
| Power over Ethernet (PoE) | Supports PoE+ and UPOE+ | No PoE support |
| Software Options | Cisco IOS XE with programmability and automation features | Cisco IOS XE with advanced routing and security features |
| Performance | Suitable for access-layer deployments with high-speed connectivity | Designed for core and aggregation layers with high throughput requirements |
| Management and Automation | Supports Cisco DNA Center and SD-Access for network automation and management | Supports Cisco DNA Center for advanced network automation and analytics |
| Accessibility and Redundancy | High availability features including StackPower and cross-stack EtherChannel | High availability features including redundant power supplies and fans |
Reviewers’ Testimonials and Customer Satisfaction
Catalyst 9300
Catalyst 9300 is known for its field-proven nature in access-layer deployments. It also supports PoE+ and UPOE+ which makes it possible to power devices including IP phones and wireless access points. Flexibility: Modular uplink options allow for flexible network designs. But some users have said they would find the stacking bandwidth to be a restriction for bigger installs.
Catalyst 9500
The Catalyst 9500, for example, is already seen as performant and scalable for core and aggregation layers. With fixed uplink ports for high-speed connectivity and robust security features to maintain network integrity. It has been praised by users for its performance in complex applications and large-scale deployments.
Case Studies and Practical Examples
Example 1: Matrix Object Mapper on a University Campus
A large university implemented the Catalyst 9300 Series throughout the campus for a high-density environment with many connected devices. The PoE+ functionality allowed wireless access points and IP phones to be powered efficiently, and the modular uplink options allowed for flexible network design. Network availability and response time were enhanced.
Case Study 2: Enterprise Data Center
The Catalyst 9500 Series was deployed by a multinational corporation in its datacenter for handling high throughput applications and large scale data processing. The high-speed fixed uplink ports facilitated reliable connections, while the robust security features safeguarded sensitive data. It improved operational efficiency and helped the company meet its growth objectives.
Future Roadmap and Updates
Cisco keeps innovating and updating Catalyst 9300 and 9500 Series switches. Updates can be expected in areas such as bringing support for higher speed uplinks, automation support and integration with cloud based management solutions. These innovations are designed to meet the changing requirements of today's enterprise networks.
Where to Buy?
The Catalyst 9300 Series and 9500 Series switches were made available to the enterprise customer through Cisco-authorized outlets and online marketplaces. Network-switch.com offers competitive pricing and a large range of models.
Conclusion
The Cisco Catalyst 9300 and 9500 Series switches serve different layers of an enterprise network. The Catalyst 9300 ideal for access-layer deployments, providing flexibility, high-speed port density, and PoE support. On the other hand, Catalyst 9500 is meant for core and aggregation layer, offering high performance, scalability with robust security features. Your selection between them must be aligned with the particular needs, performance with tolerance, and financial constraints of your organization.
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