Cisco Catalyst 9300 48-port Data Only, Network Essentials

The Cisco Catalyst 9300 48-port Data Only, Network Essentials switch is engineered for modern enterprises that demand a robust, secure, and high-performance networking foundation. This Data-Only variant removes PoE power delivery to focus on predictable performance, lower operating costs, and simplified licensing, while retaining the powerful features that Cisco’s Catalyst 9300 family is known for. With Cisco IOS XE software, intelligent policy enforcement, and scalable design, it’s an ideal choice for edge access, distribution, and campus networks that require reliable 1G data connectivity, streamlined management, and fortified security. Whether you’re deploying a new campus, upgrading an aging access layer, or expanding a multi-site network, this model delivers consistent, enterprise-grade results with future-ready capabilities.

• High-density 48-port data switching with enterprise-grade performance: Designed to support dense user connections in the access layer, the 48 data ports provide ample capacity for today’s devices while delivering low latency and predictable throughput suitable for business-critical applications, voice, and video traffic. The Network Essentials variant emphasizes steady performance with a focus on data-only traffic, helping IT teams optimize resource allocation and avoid unnecessary PoE management.
• Secure, policy-driven access at scale: Built to enforce security at the edge, this Catalyst switch integrates robust security features such as ACLs, advanced threat protection, and role-based access controls. It supports multi-layer policy enforcement, 802.1X authentication, dynamic ARP inspection, and IPv6 readiness, enabling safe user access across VLANs while reducing the risk of unauthorized devices affecting network performance.
• Flexible, future-ready network design: The Catalyst 9300 series is architected for growth with stacking and modular options. Its scalable architecture enables easy expansion via stack-wide throughput, simplified management across multiple switches, and seamless firmware upgrades. The Network Essentials edition focuses on delivering essential Layer 2/3 features with reliable operation, while maintaining compatibility with Cisco’s broader enterprise ecosystem.
• Powerful management and automation capabilities: With Cisco IOS XE, you gain a familiar, feature-rich operating system that supports modern network management paradigms. REST APIs, CLI, and a polished GUI enable efficient device provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Integrated QoS, rate limiting, and traffic shaping help guarantee performance for critical applications, even as network demands evolve.
• Energy efficiency and sustainable design: The Data-Only model benefits from energy-conscious design and efficient platform utilization. By focusing on data traffic without PoE power requirements, organizations can achieve lower total cost of ownership, reduced heat output, and streamlined cabling and power provisioning—while still enjoying the reliability and feature set expected from Cisco Catalyst switches.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst 9300 48-port Data Only, Network Essentials

• Model and platform: Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series, 48-port Data Only, Network Essentials edition. Fixed-configuration access switch designed for high-density data connectivity at the network edge.
• Data ports: 48 x 1-Gigabit Ethernet data ports (RJ-45). Designed for reliable, non-PoE data connectivity to desktops, laptops, IP phones, and generic edge devices requiring fast, steady access.
• Uplink options: Flexible uplink configurations available depending on SKU; multipurpose options include SFP/SFP+ uplinks for aggregation and distribution. Check the specific SKU for exact uplink counts and media types.
• Licensing and features: Network Essentials software license provides core Layer 2 and foundational Layer 3 capabilities, including advanced QoS, basic routing, security features, VLANs, and robust management. PoE functionality is not included in this data-only variant, aligning with energy and cost optimization goals.
• Performance and scalability: Built for enterprise access-layer performance with resilient switching, consistent forwarding rates, and integrated security. The Catalyst 9300 family supports stacking and unified management across multiple units, enabling scalable growth as network needs expand.
• Management and automation: Runs Cisco IOS XE with a rich set of management options (CLI, GUI, REST APIs) for straightforward device provisioning, monitoring, and configuration. Supports automation workflows and integration with Cisco DNA Center and other network management tools for visibility and control across the campus network.
• Security and reliability: Incorporates enterprise-grade security features such as 802.1X authentication, ACLs, IP source guard, and secure management access. Designed for high reliability with standard Cisco reliability engineering, long-term software support, and compatibility with a broad ecosystem of security solutions.
• Power and form factor: 1U fixed form factor with power options aligned to SKU; energy-efficient design tailored for data-only operation. Specific power supply configuration can vary by model, with guidance available in official data sheets for your SKU.
• Environment and warranty: Built for enterprise environments with robust thermal and acoustic performance suitable for data centers and office racks. Backed by Cisco’s warranty and support ecosystem to minimize downtime and maximize uptime.

How to install Cisco Catalyst 9300 48-port Data Only, Network Essentials

• Plan and prepare: Review your site’s rack space, power requirements, and uplink topology. Verify that you have the correct rack rails, mounting kit, and cable types for your installation. Confirm that you have the Network Essentials license and the correct SKU for your deployment needs.
• Rack and power: Mount the switch in a suitable 19-inch rack using the provided hardware. Connect power via the appropriate Power Distribution Unit (PDU) or outlet, ensuring compliance with local electrical standards. If your model supports redundant power, install the second unit or redundant power supply according to vendor guidelines.
• Initial connection and access: Use a console cable to connect to the device for initial configuration. Access the CLI to initialize the device, set a secure management IP address, and configure initial administrative credentials. This first step establishes secure, remote management access for ongoing operations.
• Configure network basics and security: Create management VLANs, set up basic security policies (802.1X, ACLs), enable QoS as required for critical applications, and define routing or switching behavior per your architectural plan. If you are integrating with Cisco DNA Center, prepare the device for automatic discovery and policy application.
• Enable stacking and firmware management: If your deployment uses multiple Catalyst 9300 switches, configure StackWise-Plus (or your vendor-recommended stacking method) to enable coordinated management and shared forwarding across the stack. Plan firmware upgrades to minimize downtime, ensuring compatibility across all stacked units and peripheral devices.
• Connect endpoints and verify: Attach user devices, IP phones, and other edge devices to the 48 data ports. Connect uplinks to aggregation or distribution layers as planned. Validate connectivity with test traffic, verify VLAN segmentation, confirm access policies, and monitor for any anomalies via the management interface or network analytics platform.

Frequently asked questions

• What does “Data Only” mean for this Cisco Catalyst 9300 model?

  “Data Only” indicates that the switch is designed without Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. It focuses on delivering reliable data connectivity and enterprise-grade switching features while simplifying power management and licensing. This makes it suitable for environments where PoE is handled separately or not required.

• What licenses are included with Network Essentials?

  Network Essentials provides core Layer 2 and foundational Layer 3 functionality, including robust QoS, VLANs, routing capabilities, and essential security features. It is designed for stable, cost-effective operation in campus and edge deployments, with upgrade paths to more feature-rich licenses as needed.

• Can I stack multiple 9300 data-only switches?

  Yes. The Catalyst 9300 family supports stacking (StackWise-Plus). Stacking allows centralized management and high-throughput inter-switch connectivity across multiple units, enabling scalable deployments across larger campuses or enterprise networks.

• Is PoE possible on this model?

  PoE is not included in the Data Only variant. If PoE is required for your devices, you would need a model with PoE capabilities or add PoE-capable modules or switches in your network architecture to supply power to endpoint devices.

• What kind of management tools work with this switch?

  The switch runs Cisco IOS XE, offering CLI, GUI, and REST API access. It is compatible with Cisco DNA Center for network assurance, automation, and policy-based management, enabling streamlined operations across the campus network.

• What performance characteristics should I expect?

  Performance depends on the exact SKU, uplink configuration, and traffic mix. In general, Catalyst 9300 devices deliver dependable enterprise-grade switching with low latency, predictable forwarding, and robust security features. For intensive workloads or large campuses, plan for appropriate uplink bandwidth, stacking capacity, and QoS policies to guarantee performance for critical applications.

• Who should consider the Cisco Catalyst 9300 48-port Data Only, Network Essentials?

  This model is well-suited for mid-to-large enterprises needing a reliable, secure, data-focused access switch in the campus or edge layer, especially when PoE is handled separately or not required. It pairs well with Cisco’s broader networking ecosystem, offering a path to more advanced licenses and features as the network evolves.

• Where can I find exact technical specifications for my SKU?

  Exact specifications, including uplink counts, power supply configuration, and performance metrics, vary by SKU. Refer to the official product data sheet or the Synnex/Ecosystem listing for your UPC or SKU to confirm precise specifications before purchase or deployment.