Cisco Catalyst 9300 2 x 25G Network Module

The Cisco Catalyst 9300 2 x 25G Network Module is a purpose-built, enterprise-grade expansion accessory designed to elevate your network’s performance, scalability, and reliability. Engineered for the demanding requirements of modern campus and data-center ecosystems, this plug-in module unlocks higher bandwidth and flexible uplink options without sacrificing the compact, modular design that the Catalyst 9300 series is known for. With two 25G uplinks, it delivers the speed needed for bandwidth-intensive applications, latency-sensitive workloads, and growing data traffic, while preserving the security and manageability that Cisco networks are famous for. Whether you’re upgrading a growing campus edge, reinforcing a distribution layer, or consolidating services across a single stack, this module helps you future-proof your infrastructure while maintaining seamless interoperability with your existing Cisco DNA Center, IOS XE, and policy-based networking workflows.

• 2 x 25G SFP28 ports deliver high-bandwidth uplinks ideal for data-intensive workloads, real-time analytics, and multi-application mergers across campus or small-to-mid-sized data centers.
• Designed as a plug-in expansion module for the Cisco Catalyst 9300 series, this module integrates cleanly with existing stacks, keeps cable management tidy, and preserves the familiar Cisco deployment model you rely on.
• Supports low-latency, line-rate forwarding and scalable performance that grows with your network, enabling seamless aggregation, east-west traffic handling, and rapid failover in critical paths.
• Hot-swappable, modular upgrade capability with minimal downtime, allowing you to scale bandwidth and adapt to evolving requirements without a full chassis replacement.
• Full integration with Cisco IOS XE and Cisco DNA Center for policy-based automation, centralized provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting across your network fabric.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst 9300 2 x 25G Network Module

• Interfaces: 2 x 25G SFP28 ports for high-speed uplinks and flexible fiber or copper (DAC) connectivity.
• Form factor: Plug-in expansion module designed for Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series switches, enabling seamless stacking and scalable upgrades.
• Compatibility: Supports deployment on Cisco Catalyst 9300 family devices, aligning with existing software and policy frameworks.
• Performance characteristics: Delivers 25 Gbps per port with robust, predictable performance suitable for enterprise workloads, virtualized environments, and mixed traffic types.
• Connectivity options: Supports a range of transceivers and cables compatible with SFP28 standard, including fiber-based modules and direct-attach copper options.
• Management and automation: Fully compatible with Cisco IOS XE for CLI-based management and with Cisco DNA Center for centralized policy, provisioning, and assurance.
• Reliability and operation: Built for continuous operation in enterprise deployments with attention to power efficiency and thermal performance within Catalyst 9300 ecosystems.

How to install Cisco Catalyst 9300 2 x 25G Network Module

Installing the Cisco Catalyst 9300 2 x 25G Network Module is straightforward when following standard Cisco hardware practices. Plan the upgrade during a maintenance window if possible, and ensure you have access to the appropriate administrative credentials for the device’s IOS XE environment. Before installation, verify that your Catalyst 9300 chassis supports expansion modules and that the slot remains unoccupied or is ready for replacement with the new module. Gather the required SFP28 transceivers or DAC cables you intend to use, along with any necessary fiber patch cables and secure mounting hardware if applicable.

Step-by-step guidance:

• Power down the affected stack or place the switch in a maintenance mode if your environment supports in-service upgrades, to minimize disruption and preserve service continuity.
• Identify the correct expansion slot on the Catalyst 9300 chassis for the 2 x 25G module, and release any latches or retention mechanisms designed to hold the module in place.
• Carefully align the module with the slot’s connector interface, ensuring even seating and preventing bent pins or misalignment.
• Insert the module until it clicks or seats firmly, then re-engage any latches or securing screws as required by your chassis model.
• Reconnect power or restore service, then enter the device’s management console to verify recognition of the new module using commands like show module or show inventory.
• Connect your 25G SFP28 transceivers or DAC cables to the two ports, and route them to the appropriate destinations (servers, NAS, uplink peers, or other switches).
• Verify link status, speed negotiation, and port health through the CLI or your preferred management platform. Validate traffic flow and apply any necessary QoS or policy rules to leverage the new uplinks.
• Update device firmware and IOS XE as needed to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features, then monitor performance and stability over the next several hours and days.

Tips for best results:

• Plan for a brief period of reduced redundancy during the installation in environments with critical uplinks; communicate maintenance windows clearly to stakeholders.
• Test both fiber and copper options in advance if your network design calls for mixed media; verify power budgets and fan profiles to avoid thermal throttling.
• Document port mappings, cable routes, and device configurations to simplify future troubleshooting and replacement cycles.
• After installation, consider running a baseline performance test to compare pre- and post-upgrade bandwidth and latency metrics.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Cisco Catalyst 9300 2 x 25G Network Module? It is a plug-in expansion module for Cisco Catalyst 9300 switches that provides two 25G SFP28 uplink ports, enabling higher bandwidth connections and flexible network design while preserving the Catalyst 9300’s modular management capabilities.
• What type of cables does it support? The module supports 25G SFP28 connections, which means you can use SFP28 fiber transceivers for fiber links or direct-attach copper (DAC) cables where supported by your network topology and hardware.
• Is it hot-swappable? Yes, the module is designed to be hot-swappable in compatible Catalyst 9300 configurations, allowing upgrades with minimal downtime in many enterprise environments.
• Which Cisco technologies work best with this module? The module integrates smoothly with Cisco IOS XE for traditional CLI management and with Cisco DNA Center for policy-based automation, monitoring, and centralized provisioning across your network fabric.
• What deployment scenarios benefit most from 2 x 25G uplinks? This module shines in environments requiring scalable uplinks for servers, virtualization workloads, storage connectivity, and inter-switch links within stacks, as well as for campus edge or distribution layer designs that demand higher bandwidth with low latency.
• Do I need to upgrade other components when installing this module? You may want to verify compatibility with your current IOS XE version, transceiver types, and power/thermal profiles. While not always necessary, updating firmware and ensuring compatible management tooling can optimize performance and reliability.