Allied Telesis CentreCom GS980MX/52 Layer 3 Switch

The Allied Telesis CentreCOM GS980MX/52 is a high-performance, stackable Layer 3 Lite switch designed to meet the demands of modern networks that require scalable density, resilient operation, and simplified management. Built for growing enterprises, branch offices, and campus networks, this switch combines Multi-Gigabit capability with robust Layer 3 Lite routing to deliver fast inter-VLAN communication, secure access, and dependable network uptime. As part of the CentreCOM family, the GS980MX/52 emphasizes reliability, ease of deployment, and predictable performance, making it an excellent choice for administrators who value straightforward configuration, centralized management, and future-proof networking in a compact footprint.

With its emphasis on stacking flexibility, the GS980MX/52 is engineered to scale alongside your organization. When you need to expand port density and reduce complexity, you can add additional units to form a cohesive stack that behaves as a single switch, simplifying policy enforcement, firmware management, and network-wide visibility. The multi-gig capabilities accommodate newer devices that demand higher uplink speeds while preserving compatibility with legacy 1G endpoints. This blend of backward compatibility and forward-looking performance enables a smooth migration path as the network evolves without forcing a complete refresh of your switching fabric.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) variants in the GS980MX/52 family address the rising need to power IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, and other PoE devices directly from the switch. By centralizing power delivery, these models reduce cable clutter and simplify deployment in areas where electrical outlets are scarce or inconvenient. PoE support is SKU-dependent, so selecting the right model ensures you meet both the power budget and the number of powered devices required for your site. This capability is particularly valuable for branch locations and classrooms, where reliable PoE provisioning can streamline installation and maintenance.

The Layer 3 Lite functionality of the GS980MX/52 provides essential routing features that improve network efficiency without the complexity of full enterprise-grade Layer 3. Administrators can implement static routing and inter-VLAN routing to optimize traffic between network segments, enabling faster application delivery and reduced broadcast domains. In addition to routing, the switch supports basic IPv4/IPv6 capabilities, VLAN segmentation, and policy-based controls that help protect critical workloads while maintaining predictable performance. This combination of Layer 3 capabilities with a comfortable learning curve makes the GS980MX/52 an attractive option for networks transitioning toward more advanced routing and security features.

Security and quality of service (QoS) are integral to maintaining application performance in today’s networks. The GS980MX/52 family provides robust QoS to prioritize latency-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video conferencing, ensuring that critical traffic receives appropriate bandwidth during times of congestion. Built-in ACLs and port security features further reinforce network access control and posture assessment, helping administrators enforce security policies at the edge of the network. Centralized management through a web-based GUI and CLI supports consistent policy deployment across multiple switches, delivering a unified management experience that reduces operational overhead.

Finally, Allied Telesis emphasizes reliability and long-term support in the CentreCOM line. The GS980MX/52 is designed for easy firmware updates, straightforward maintenance, and compatibility with the broader CentreCOM ecosystem. This makes it easier for IT teams to manage devices, monitor health, and plan for future expansions without disruptive downtime. Whether you’re upgrading a single location or building a scalable campus network, the GS980MX/52 offers a balanced mix of performance, manageability, and future-proofing that aligns with contemporary networking requirements.

• High-performance stackable architecture: The GS980MX/52 is designed to be stacked with other CentreCOM switches, delivering scalable port density and consistent policy enforcement across the network. Stack capability simplifies growth, reduces administrator overhead, and improves fault tolerance by eliminating single points of failure in the access layer.
• Multi-Gigabit connectivity and PoE options: This series supports Multi-Gigabit uplinks, enabling higher-speed connectivity for modern devices while maintaining compatibility with existing 1G endpoints. PoE-enabled variants provide centralized power for IP cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, and other powered devices, reducing the need for extra power infrastructure and enabling cleaner, more efficient deployments.
• Layer 3 Lite routing for efficient traffic management: With Layer 3 Lite capabilities, the switch can perform inter-VLAN routing, basic static routing, and IPv4/IPv6 routing tasks to optimize traffic flow between network segments. This reduces broadcast domains at the access layer, improves application performance, and supports a simpler network design for mid-sized environments.
• Security, policy, and QoS for business-critical applications: The GS980MX/52 includes essential security features and QoS controls to prioritize critical workloads, protect against unauthorized access, and ensure predictable performance for voice, video, and collaboration services across the network.
• Centralized management and reliable lifecycle support: Administrators can configure and monitor the switch via a web-based GUI, CLI, and SNMP, enabling consistent policy deployment and streamlined firmware management across multiple devices in the CentreCOM portfolio. The product line is known for stable firmware updates and solid vendor support, which helps organizations maintain security and performance over time.

Technical Details of Allied Telesis CentreCom GS980MX/52 Layer 3 Switch

• Model: GS980MX/52
• Series: CentreCom
• Technology: Layer 3 Lite switching
• PoE: PoE variants available (SKU-dependent)
• Stacking: Stackable with compatible CentreCOM switches
• Management: Web-based GUI, CLI, SNMP
• Ports: Port configurations vary by SKU (refer to the product listing)
• Performance: Multi-Gigabit capable (specifications vary by SKU)

How to install Allied Telesis CentreCom GS980MX/52 Layer 3 Switch

Installing the GS980MX/52 is designed to be straightforward and unobtrusive, enabling rapid deployment with minimal downtime. Use the following guidance to ensure a smooth integration into your existing network infrastructure:

• Plan your topology: Determine the role of the switch within your network (core, distribution, or access), define VLANs, inter-VLAN routing requirements, and PoE needs to guide configuration decisions and future scaling.
• Prepare the hardware: Verify you have the correct stacking cables or expansion options if you intend to create a stack with other CentreCOM devices. Confirm power supply compatibility and ensure a clean, well-ventilated rack environment.
• Connect and power up: Install the switch in a standard 19-inch rack or place it on a stable surface with adequate airflow. Connect power and verify that the status LEDs indicate normal operation before proceeding with configuration.
• Initial configuration: Access the switch via the web-based GUI or the console CLI. Set up a management IP address, configure appropriate VLANs, and implement security basics (strong passwords, access controls, and administrative roles). Enable Layer 3 routing features as required by your design.
• Policy rollout and validation: Create QoS policies to prioritize critical traffic, implement ACLs to restrict unauthorized access, and verify routing paths between VLANs. Save the configuration and, if possible, schedule firmware updates to ensure devices remain secure and up-to-date.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Does the GS980MX/52 support PoE?
  A: PoE support is available on select SKUs within the GS980MX/52 family. Verify the exact SKU specifications to confirm PoE capability, power budget, and the number of PoE-enabled ports.
• Q: How many ports does the GS980MX/52 provide?
  A: Port counts vary by SKU within the GS980MX/52 family. Check the product listing for exact port density, uplink options, and any expansion capabilities.
• Q: Can the switch be stacked?
  A: Yes, the GS980MX/52 is designed to be stacked with compatible CentreCOM switches to scale capacity and simplify management across the network.
• Q: What Layer 3 features are included?
  A: The switch offers Layer 3 Lite features, including inter-VLAN routing, static routing, and basic IPv4/IPv6 support, suitable for mid-size enterprise deployments.
• Q: How is the device managed?
  A: Management is available via a web-based GUI, CLI, and SNMP, enabling centralized configuration, monitoring, and firmware maintenance across the CentreCOM line.