Cisco C240 M4 2U Rack Server

The Cisco C240 M4 2U Rack Server is a premier two-socket, two-rack-unit powerhouse engineered for data centers that demand high performance, expansive storage, and centralized management. Built to handle storage-intensive workloads—from big data analytics and virtualization to collaboration platforms—the C240 M4 blends raw processing speed with enterprise-grade security and remote administration. At its core are dual Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processors running at 2.40 GHz, delivering robust compute density within a compact 2U chassis that fits seamlessly into Cisco UCS ecosystems and scalable data-center architectures.

Designed for reliability, scalability, and efficient operation, this server combines a generous memory footprint with a capable storage pathway. The 12 Gb/s SAS controller ensures fast data movement and responsive storage I/O, while the 64 GB of RAM provides headroom for virtualization, caching, and memory-intensive workloads. The architecture emphasizes remote management capabilities and built-in security, allowing IT teams to monitor, provision, and safeguard critical applications from anywhere. Whether you’re expanding an existing Cisco UCS environment or deploying a new data-center solution, the C240 M4 is engineered to deliver consistent performance, predictable results, and efficient lifecycle management.

• Dual Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 processors at 2.40 GHz (14 cores per CPU, 28 threads per CPU) deliver scalable compute power for demanding workloads, with robust turbo performance for bursts when needed.
• 64 GB of RAM provides solid memory capacity for virtual machines, large databases, in-memory processing, and data analytics, with room to scale as workloads grow.
• 12 Gb/s SAS Controller enables high-speed storage I/O, supporting fast data access and throughput for storage-heavy applications and databases.
• 2U rack form factor with two CPU sockets, designed for dense data centers, enterprise reliability, and straightforward integration into Cisco UCS environments with centralized management.
• Built-in security features and remote management capabilities (CIMC) streamline monitoring, firmware updates, and governance, reducing downtime and administration overhead.

Technical Details of Cisco C240 M4 2U Rack Server

• Processor: 2 x Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 @ 2.40 GHz (14 cores per CPU, 28 threads per CPU; turbo up to 3.3 GHz)
• Memory: 64 GB RAM
• Storage Controller: 12 Gb/s SAS Controller
• Form Factor: 2U rack server
• Sockets: 2
• Management: Integrated remote management through Cisco CIMC
• Security: Enterprise-grade built-in security features
• Ideal workloads: Storage-intensive infrastructure, big data, virtualization, collaboration

How to install Cisco C240 M4 2U Rack Server

Install begins with preparing your data center rack space. Verify that your rack can accommodate a 2U chassis, confirm clearance for rear cabling, and ensure compatible rack rails are on hand. Gather necessary tools and accessories recommended by Cisco for rack mounting, including appropriate screws, rails, and cable management provisions. Plan cabling to promote airflow and easy maintenance, and power the unit from a reliable, redundant power source where possible.

Next, install the server into the rack. Attach the adjustable rails, slide the chassis into the rack, and secure it firmly with screws at the rack posts. Once seated, connect power cables to an appropriate power distribution unit (PDU) and attach essential network cables to the chosen network switch or fabric interconnects. Ensure proper grounding and verify that cooling airflow is unobstructed to prevent thermal throttling during peak workloads.

Power on and access the Cisco Integrated Management Controller (CIMC). CIMC provides out-of-band management for remote configuration, monitoring, and maintenance. Configure the initial network settings, including management interface IP, login credentials, and alert preferences. Update CIMC firmware to the latest supported version to maximize security and feature support, then proceed to configure the BIOS and platform firmware in coordination with your standard enterprise baseline.

Install and configure the operating system and drivers. Prepare storage as required for your workload—whether that means configuring SAS disks behind the 12 Gb/s controller, setting up RAID levels, or integrating with your existing storage area network. Install essential drivers for the SAS controller, network adapters, and management agents, and apply any Cisco UCS-specific policies or templates to ensure consistent performance across your fleet. Perform a validation pass to confirm proper CPU, memory, storage, and NIC recognition, and verify CIMC connectivity and remote management readiness.

Finally, tune performance and security settings. Review BIOS options for performance vs. energy efficiency, calibrate memory profiles, configure boot devices, and enable security features such as secure boot, drive erasure policies, and access controls. Plan a routine maintenance window for firmware updates and health checks, and establish monitoring dashboards in CIMC to keep an eye on temperature, power consumption, fan speeds, and subsystem health. With a properly configured system, the Cisco C240 M4 delivers reliable operation, scalable performance, and straightforward lifecycle management in line with enterprise expectations.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the Cisco C240 M4 2U Rack Server best suited for?

A: It is designed for storage-intensive infrastructure workloads, virtualization, data analytics, and collaboration, offering strong compute density in a 2U, dual-socket form factor.

Q: What processors are included?

A: The server features two Intel Xeon E5-2680 v4 CPUs at 2.40 GHz, providing substantial multi-core performance and parallel processing capabilities.

Q: How much memory does it ship with?

A: It ships with 64 GB of RAM, suitable for moderate-to-heavy virtualization and data-heavy workloads, with room to expand based on configuration needs.

Q: What storage connectivity is available?

A: A 12 Gb/s SAS Controller delivers high-speed storage connectivity, enabling fast data movement for I/O-intensive applications and large databases.

Q: Does it support remote management?

A: Yes. The server includes built-in remote management through Cisco Integrated Management Controller (CIMC), allowing out-of-band monitoring, provisioning, and maintenance from a centralized interface.

Q: Is this server compatible with Cisco UCS ecosystems?

A: The C240 M4 is designed for compatibility with Cisco UCS environments, enabling streamlined provisioning, policy-based management, and scalable integration within Cisco data center architectures.