Cisco WS-C3850-48P-L Catalyst

Product Overview: Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-48P-L Switch

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-48P-L is a robust Layer 2 managed network switch designed to deliver enterprise-grade access-layer performance with Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) support. It offers 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, making it ideal for modern business environments with heavy device connectivity needs. Moreover, it includes the LAN Base software image, focusing on Layer 2 switching capabilities, network scalability, and integrated security.

Product Features in Full Detail

1. 48 x Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ Ports

To begin with, this switch includes 48 ports of 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet with PoE+ support. It provides a total PoE budget of up to 740W, making it perfect for powering IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras directly over Ethernet.

2. LAN Base Software for Layer 2 Switching

Next, it operates with LAN Base image software, offering a complete suite of Layer 2 features including VLANs, spanning-tree enhancements, and quality of service (QoS). This helps simplify deployment in enterprise edge and access layers without the need for complex Layer 3 routing.

3. Cisco StackWise-480 Support

Additionally, the switch supports Cisco StackWise-480, enabling up to 9 switches to be stacked with a combined throughput of 480 Gbps. This ensures future scalability and high availability for growing networks, particularly in dense environments.

4. Intelligent Power Management

Furthermore, the switch intelligently manages PoE+ power distribution using Cisco Perpetual PoE and Fast PoE, allowing uninterrupted power during switch reboots and reducing downtime for connected devices.

5. Security & Access Control

Moreover, advanced security capabilities like 802.1X, port security, and DHCP snooping are available to protect the edge of the network. These ensure only authorized users and devices gain access to network resources.

6. Unified Access and Energy Efficiency

Finally, the switch integrates with Cisco’s Unified Access architecture, combining wired and wireless management in one platform. It is also Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) compliant, minimizing power consumption during low traffic.

Why Choose the Cisco WS-C3850-48P-L?

You should choose this switch because it delivers high port density, advanced PoE+ support, and scalable stackability in a compact 1RU form factor. Since it focuses on Layer 2 access switching, it simplifies deployment in branch offices, education campuses, and enterprise workgroups.

Additionally, Cisco’s long-standing reliability and the flexibility to scale or stack with other 3850 units make this switch a future-ready investment. It reduces operational complexity while maintaining high-speed access and power delivery to essential business devices.

Additional Benefits

• Ideal for voice, video, and data convergence at the edge

• Redundant power support increases uptime and stability

• Compatible with Cisco Prime Infrastructure and DNA Center

• Streamlined for plug-and-play branch or office deployments

• Delivers business-class features at an access-layer price

• 1RU design fits standard network racks or compact enclosures

Quick Specs Summary: