Cisco Catalyst 3650-24P Ethernet Switch: Powering Converged Enterprise Networks with PoE+ and Scalable Stacking

The Cisco Catalyst 3650-24P Ethernet Switch is a cornerstone for modern enterprise campuses, delivering a reliable, scalable foundation for full convergence between wired and wireless networks. Built to simplify network design while expanding capacity, this switch combines robust Layer 2 and basic Layer 3 features with the proven Cisco IOS XE operating system. Designed for both standalone deployments and stackable configurations, the Catalyst 3650-24P empowers IT teams to deploy powerful access-layer switches that can grow with your organization’s needs. With 24 PoE+ capable ports, power-hungry wireless access points, IP phones, cameras, and other networked devices can be powered directly from the switch, reducing cable clutter and improving reliability. The result is a flexible, high-performance platform that supports the demanding traffic, security, and management requirements of today’s digital workplaces. Whether you are outfitting a branch office, a campus edge, or a dense conference area, the Catalyst 3650-24P is engineered to deliver consistent performance, simplified operations, and robust security across your entire network.

• The Catalyst 3650-24P enables true converged networking by integrating wired and wireless management on a single platform, which simplifies policy enforcement, security, and visibility across devices and users. This design helps IT teams reduce the complexity of multi-vendor environments and accelerates time-to-value for new deployments, all while maintaining a consistent, policy-driven experience for end users.
• StackWise-160 technology provides scalable, stackable performance that lets you extend a single, easy-to-manage control plane across multiple switches. With this approach, you can add switches as your network grows, improving redundancy and simplifying maintenance without sacrificing stability or performance. The result is a resilient campus fabric that reduces downtime and streamlines upgrades.
• Twenty-four PoE+ ports give you the power you need for modern endpoints, including IP phones, high-density wireless access points, cameras, and other powered devices. Integrated power management helps optimize energy use and reduces the need for separate power infrastructure, while ensuring critical devices stay online during peak usage periods.
• Advanced security and quality of service help protect your network from threats and ensure reliable performance for voice, video, and data. The Catalyst 3650-24P supports modern security policies, access controls, and network segmentation, along with QoS features that prioritize critical applications, deliver predictable latency, and maintain high user satisfaction.
• Energy-efficient design and flexible deployment options make the Catalyst 3650-24P a practical choice for modern campuses. It supports rack-mount installations in data centers or edge deployments, while its power-saving capabilities help lower operating costs over the lifecycle of the network.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst 3650-24P Ethernet Switch

• Platform and role: An enterprise-class access-layer switch designed for standalone use or stacking with other Catalyst devices to create a scalable campus access network.
• Ports and PoE: 24 Ethernet ports with PoE+ support for powering a wide range of networked devices directly from the switch, reducing the need for separate power supplies and simplifying cabling.
• Stacking and resilience: Supports StackWise-160 to form a single logical switch across multiple physical units, enabling simplified management, seamless failover, and scalable growth as your network expands.
• Operating system: Runs Cisco IOS XE, delivering a modern, feature-rich environment for security, routing, policy control, automation, and centralized management.
• Security features: Built-in security controls, including authentication, access control lists, and protective measures designed to defend against common threats while maintaining user productivity.
• Quality of Service: Advanced QoS to ensure priority for voice, video, and critical business applications, helping to maintain performance during times of peak traffic.
• Management and automation: Intuitive web-based management alongside CLI access, making device provisioning, monitoring, and maintenance straightforward for IT teams. Compatibility with Cisco management tools supports efficient lifecycle management.
• Energy efficiency: Design focuses on reducing power consumption while preserving performance, contributing to a greener network and lower total cost of ownership.

How to install Cisco Catalyst 3650-24P Ethernet Switch

• Prepare the installation space by selecting a well-ventilated rack or cabinet with stable power and appropriate clearance for cooling and cable management. Ensure ambient conditions meet the device's operating requirements for reliable performance.
• Mount the switch securely in the rack and connect the power supply. Attach network cables to the PoE+ ports for end devices and to the uplink interfaces that will connect to the distribution layer or to other Catalyst devices if stacking is planned.
• Access the switch for initial configuration via console, SSH, or a browser-based management interface. Configure basic settings such as device name, management IP address, and domain. Enable essential features and establish baseline security policies to protect the device from unauthorized access.
• If you plan to deploy a stack, connect the StackWise-160 cables between the switches as per the hardware guide and configure stacking parameters so that all units operate as a single logical switch with a unified control plane.
• Implement VLANs, security policies, PoE settings, and QoS profiles that align with your network design. Validate connectivity, test failover in stack configurations, and monitor performance using your preferred management tools. Save your configuration and establish a routine for firmware updates and health monitoring to maintain optimal operation.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Cisco Catalyst 3650-24P Ethernet Switch?
  A: It is an enterprise-class, 24-port PoE+ Ethernet switch designed for standalone use or stacking with other Catalyst devices to provide a scalable, converged wired and wireless network solution.
• Q: Does it support PoE+?
  A: Yes. The 3650-24P delivers PoE+ power to connected devices, simplifying deployments of IP phones, wireless access points, cameras, and other powered endpoints.
• Q: Can I stack multiple switches for larger deployments?
  A: Yes. The switch supports StackWise-160, enabling you to form a single, resilient logical switch across multiple physical units for easier management and consistent performance.
• Q: What operating system does it run?
  A: It runs Cisco IOS XE, offering a modern, secure, feature-rich environment with built-in management, automation capabilities, and rich networking services.
• Q: Is this switch suitable for converged wired and wireless networks?
  A: Absolutely. The Catalyst 3650-24P is designed to power time-sensitive wireless access points and other devices while providing a consistent policy framework and reliable connectivity for all networked devices.