Cisco Catalyst 9300 24-Port Modular Uplinks 1G SFP, Network Advantage

The Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series switches are the cornerstone of modern, secure, scalable campus networks. Engineered for security, IoT, mobility, and cloud, this line represents Cisco’s next generation of stackable, enterprise-grade switching. The Cisco Catalyst 9300 24-Port Modular Uplinks 1G SFP model combines robust performance with flexible uplink options, delivering a future‑proof platform that helps organizations accelerate digital transformation while maintaining tight control over access, policy, and security. Built to support high-density IoT devices, streaming applications, and cloud‑connected services, this switch is designed to simplify complex networks and reduce operational overhead without sacrificing reliability or security.

• Security-first architecture for IoT and user devices: The Catalyst 9300 integrates advanced access control and segmentation to protect critical assets and isolate IoT endpoints. Built-in features support secure device onboarding, policy enforcement, and consistent security across wired and wireless segments, helping to prevent lateral movement and reduce threat exposure.
• Stackability and scalability for growing campuses: With Cisco StackWise and optional StackPower capabilities, this switch is designed to scale with your organization. Add more access or distribution switches as your network grows, simplify management with a single control plane, and reduce total cost of ownership through simplified operations and easier upgrades.
• Flexible 1G SFP uplinks for diverse connectivity: The modular uplink design enables you to connect to core, distribution, or data center fabrics using 1G SFP transceivers. This flexibility supports fiber and copper media, enabling smooth integration with existing infrastructure and future-proofing for evolving bandwidth needs.
• Cloud-ready, policy-driven management: Cisco IOS XE and the Network Advantage licensing deliver robust analytics, automation, and policy enforcement. Integrated with Cisco DNA Center and compatible APIs, the Catalyst 9300 enables intent-based networking, proactive telemetry, and rapid remediation across campus networks.
• Reliability and dependable operation for mission-critical networks: Built for 24x7 operation, the Catalyst 9300 offers high-availability features, durable components, and reliable performance. Select SKUs provide redundant power and cooling options, helping keep networks online during maintenance windows or unexpected power events.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst 9300 24-Port 1G SFP Modular Uplinks

• Platform family: Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series, Network Advantage ready; stackable enterprise switch designed for secure, policy-driven automation and IoT integration.
• Ports and uplinks: 24 fixed 1G SFP-capable ports with modular uplink options, enabling flexible connections to core/distribution layers and cloud services. Supports stacking to simplify management and scale out as needed.
• Management and software: Runs Cisco IOS XE with Network Advantage licensing. Supports Cisco DNA Center integration, REST APIs, automation, telemetry, and advanced security features for centralized management and policy enforcement.
• Security features: Includes enterprise-grade access control policies, device authentication, and segmentation capabilities to protect endpoints and the data plane from threats while enabling secure IoT onboarding and policy enforcement across the network.
• Reliability and lifecycle: Engineered for dense office environments and campus deployments with durable hardware, robust chassis design, and support for deployment in environments requiring steady performance and long service lifecycles.

how to install Cisco Catalyst 9300 24-Port

Installing the Catalyst 9300 24-Port with 1G SFP uplinks involves careful planning, physical installation, and initial configuration to unlock the full potential of its security, mobility, and cloud-ready capabilities. Start with a clear network design that defines where uplinks will connect to the core or data center, how VLANs will be segmented, and which IoT devices or wireless access points will require dedicated policy rules. Prepare the rack space in a well-ventilated location, ensuring adequate airflow to maintain stable temperatures under load. Mount the switch securely in a standard 19-inch rack, attach redundant power or ensure the available power source meets the unit’s requirements, and install any required SFP modules suitable for your 1G uplink media (fiber or copper) as planned in your network design.

Power on the device and connect to it via console access to perform the initial setup. Use either the CLI or the preferred GUI/REST-based tools to configure core settings: set a unique hostname that reflects your site, configure a management IP on the out-of-band or in-band management interface, enable SSH for secure remote administration, and set time synchronization to ensure logs and telemetry are accurate. Establish basic security policies, including 802.1X authentication where appropriate, and define access control lists (ACLs) to protect management interfaces.

Configure uplinks and port channels as needed to optimize throughput and redundancy. If you are building a scalable campus network, consider stacking multiple Catalyst 9300 units using StackWise for a single management plane and cohesive forwarding behavior. Enable QoS policies to prioritize latency-sensitive traffic such as voice, video, and real-time IoT data. Leverage Cisco DNA Center or corresponding automation tools to implement intent-based policies, monitor network health, and receive proactive alerts about performance or security issues. Finally, verify firmware and licensing—ensure you are running a supported IOS XE version with the Network Advantage license activated to access the full suite of features. Validate connectivity end-to-end, confirm VLAN segmentation works as designed, and monitor latency and jitter under typical load to gauge performance in your environment.

For ongoing operations, set up regular telemetry and monitoring, schedule firmware updates according to your maintenance window, and establish a rollback plan in case of compatibility issues after an upgrade. When deploying in campus or enterprise environments with diverse endpoints and wireless access layers, keep configurations modular and well-documented so future upgrades, expansions, or migrations can be performed with minimal disruption. The Catalyst 9300’s modular uplinks and robust software ecosystem are designed to simplify day-to-day administration, reduce mean time to repair, and enable administrators to focus on strategic initiatives rather than firefighting technical issues.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Cisco Catalyst 9300 24-Port Modular Uplinks 1G SFP? It is a stackable, enterprise-grade switch in the Cisco Catalyst 9300 family, featuring 24 fixed 1G SFP-capable ports and modular uplink options. It is designed for secure, scalable campus networks with cloud-ready management and IoT support.
• What license is needed for enhanced features? Cisco Network Advantage licensing unlocks advanced automation, analytics, and policy capabilities. Some SKUs include or require this license to access the full feature set.
• Can Catalyst 9300 switches be stacked? Yes. Catalyst 9300 supports StackWise for simplified management, predictable performance, and easier scalability across multiple switches in a single stack.
• Is PoE supported on this model? PoE capabilities depend on the specific SKU. Some Catalyst 9300 models offer PoE/PoE+, while others may not. Check the exact SKU to confirm power features and port capabilities.
• How do I manage this switch? It can be managed via the Cisco IOS XE CLI or GUI, with optional integration to Cisco DNA Center for automation, telemetry, and policy-driven operations.
• What deployment scenarios suit the Catalyst 9300 24-Port? Ideal for campus edge to distribution, IoT onboarding, and integration with wireless networks. Its modular uplinks and security features make it suitable for organizations pursuing secure, policy-driven networking with cloud readiness.