Cisco Catalyst C9500-48Y4C-E: Next Generation Enterprise Campus Switch

Key Features of the C9500-48Y4C-E

Industry-Leading 25 Gigabit Ethernet Performance

The Cisco Catalyst C9500-48Y4C-E represents the industry’s first purpose-built high performance 48 port 25G ethernet switch specifically designed for the enterprise campus environment. This next generation platform delivers exceptional switching capacity of up to 3.2 Tbps with 1 Bpps forwarding performance, powered by the advanced Cisco UADP 3.0 ASIC architecture. The switch features 48 ports of 25 Gigabit Ethernet SFP28 interfaces operating in full duplex mode, providing unmatched density and performance for demanding enterprise applications. Each port supports flexible speed configurations from 1G to 25G, enabling seamless migration from existing gigabit ethernet infrastructure while future-proofing network investments. The high end platform incorporates sophisticated QoS mechanisms and advanced traffic management capabilities that ensure optimal performance across all applications, making it the ideal foundation for transforms business operations in the modern enterprise campus.

Cisco DNA Software Driven Architecture Integration

Built on Cisco’s revolutionary Software Defined Access (SD-Access) framework, the C9500-48Y4C-E simplifies enterprise network operations through intelligent automation and policy-driven segmentation. This ethernet switch integrates seamlessly with Cisco DNA Center, providing centralized management and orchestration that accelerates deployment and reduces operational complexity. The platform supports comprehensive virtual interfaces and network fabric capabilities that enable secure segmentation without compromising performance or user experience. Advanced security features include Cisco TrustWorthy Solutions with MACsec 256-bit encryption, providing robust protection against evolving cyber threats. The software driven architecture enables rapid provisioning, automated policy enforcement, and intelligent network analytics that help IT teams focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine configuration tasks.

Enterprise-Class High Availability and Reliability

The Catalyst 9500 Series switches deliver enterprise-grade reliability through redundant, platinum-rated AC power supply configurations and hot-swappable fan modules that ensure continuous operation. Advanced high availability features include Graceful Insertion and Removal (GIR), Nonstop Forwarding with Stateful Switchover (NSF/SSO), and comprehensive patching capabilities that minimize service disruptions during maintenance operations. The switch operates reliably across standard operating temperature ranges and incorporates robust environmental monitoring to maintain optimal performance under varying conditions. Cisco StackWise Virtual technology enables multiple switch models to operate as a single logical unit, providing seamless scalability and simplified management without requiring dedicated stacking cables. The platform’s four point mounting system and durable construction ensure secure installation in standard 1RU rack configurations.

Advanced Enterprise Applications and IoT Enablement

The C9500-48Y4C-E provides comprehensive support for enterprise applications including MPLS Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPNs, multicast services with PIM-SM and PIM-SSM protocols, and advanced routing capabilities with IS-IS protocol support. The platform’s extensible architecture accommodates emerging technologies including IoT device onboarding, network analytics, and cloud integration services. Built-in support for IEEE standards ensures broad compatibility with existing infrastructure, while the open platform design enables third-party application integration and customization. The switch supports container-based application hosting on its x86 CPU architecture, enabling edge computing scenarios and distributed application deployment. Advanced features like ARP optimization, network address translation, and comprehensive VLAN management provide the flexibility needed to support diverse enterprise environments and evolving business requirements.

Specifications of the C9500-48Y4C-E

Hardware Specifications

Port Configuration and Interface Details

The C9500-48Y4C-E features 48 ports of SFP28 25 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces supporting 1G/10G/25G speeds with full duplex operation, plus 4 QSFP28 100 Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports that can operate at 40G/100G speeds. All ethernet interfaces support comprehensive management capabilities including remote monitoring, link aggregation, and advanced traffic analysis. The platform provides extensive virtual interfaces support for VLAN segmentation, routing, and network virtualization services. Interface configuration flexibility allows for mixed-speed deployments, enabling gradual migration from legacy gigabit ethernet infrastructure to high-speed 25G connections. The switch incorporates intelligent buffering and advanced QoS features that optimize performance across all port speeds and traffic types, ensuring consistent application performance regardless of network load conditions.

Software Capabilities and Cisco DNA Integration

Running Cisco IOS XE software with Network Essentials licensing, the switch provides comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionality including advanced routing protocols, multicast services, and security features. The platform supports Cisco DNA software defined access capabilities that enable policy-based automation, network segmentation, and centralized management through Cisco DNA Center. Advanced enterprise applications include MPLS VPN services, network address translation, comprehensive VLAN management, and support for virtual routing and forwarding (VRF) instances. The switch integrates with Cisco TrustWorthy Solutions framework, providing enhanced security through hardware-based encryption, secure boot processes, and comprehensive threat detection capabilities. Container-based application hosting on the integrated x86 CPU enables edge computing scenarios and custom application deployment directly on the switch platform.

Comparison with Other Catalyst 9500 Series Models

Within the Catalyst 9500 Series switches lineup, the C9500-48Y4C-E provides the highest port density for 25G connections while maintaining the compact 1RU form factor. Compared to the C9500-24Y4C model, this switch doubles the access port count while offering the same uplink capabilities, making it ideal for high-density access layer deployments. The platform shares the same software driven architecture and enterprise-class features as other switch models in the series, ensuring consistent management and operational experiences across the entire network fabric. Unlike lower-end switch models, the C9500-48Y4C-E incorporates the advanced UADP 3.0 ASIC that provides superior performance, enhanced security capabilities, and support for future protocol innovations. The switch offers better price-performance ratios for large-scale deployments compared to smaller cards or multiple switch configurations, while maintaining the flexibility to support diverse enterprise campus requirements.

At Network Republic, our end-user accounts are covered by a 1-Year Warranty on all hardware—whether New, New Open Box, New Pull, Refurbished, or Refurbished by Manufacturer —from the date of delivery. This warranty covers hardware defects under normal use and allows for repair, replacement, or in-house credit at our discretion.

For resellers and wholesale purchases, we offer a 30-Day Warranty limited strictly to functional issues or defects upon arrival, including dead-on-arrival (DOA) items; it does not apply to problems arising after prolonged use. Resellers are responsible for inspecting and testing products within the 30-day window. This warranty excludes accidental damage, misuse, cosmetic wear, third-party modifications, and software-related issues unrelated to hardware failure. Check out our full warranty policy here.

Software licenses are not covered under the standard return and warranty policies and need to be activated on the hardware within 7 days of receipt. Any issues need to be reported immediately, within 10 days, so we can issue an exchange. Under no circumstances will refunds be issued for software licenses.