Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series: High-Performance 32-Port 100G Switch with NW Advanced License

The Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series represents the next generation of enterprise-class core and aggregation switches, engineered for full programmability, serviceability, and uncompromising performance. Built on an x86-based architecture, these fixed-core switches deliver dense 100G connectivity, robust security, and seamless integration with Cisco’s broad networking ecosystem. The Network Advantage (NW Adv) license unlocks the full power of the Catalyst 9500 platform, enabling advanced automation, analytics, and policy-driven networking that align with modern campus and data center requirements. If you need a dependable, scalable solution for high-speed interconnects, zero-touch provisioning, and streamlined operations, the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series high-performance 32-port 100G switch with NW Advanced License is designed to meet those demands while simplifying day-to-day management.

• High-density 32 x 100G ports deliver exceptional data throughput for core and distribution needs, enabling scalable spine-and-leaf or collapsed-core deployments without compromising latency or reliability. This density makes it an ideal choice for campus backbones, data center interconnects, or high-performance network fabrics where every port matters and downtime is not an option.
• Network Advantage (NW Adv) License unlocks advanced programmability, analytics, and automation across the Catalyst 9500 platform. With NW Adv, you gain access to policy-driven networking, deep telemetry, and streamlined operations that reduce manual tasks, accelerate incident response, and support AI-driven network optimization for faster service delivery.
• Enterprise-grade reliability, security, and serviceability come standard with the fixed 9500 series design. The x86-based processor delivers solid performance headroom for demanding workloads, while the platform supports robust software updates, hot-swappable components where applicable, and straightforward lifecycle management to minimize downtime during upgrades.
• Comprehensive security and segmentation capabilities scale with your network. Built-in encryption for management traffic, role-based access control, and integrated threat mitigation help protect critical services, enforce compliance, and reduce risk across campus and data-center environments.
• Seamless integration with Cisco’s management and automation ecosystem, including Cisco DNA Center, RESTCONF, NETCONF, and Python-based automation. This enables centralized policy enforcement, real-time telemetry, and automated provisioning that align with modern IT operations and DevOps practices.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series 32-Port 100G Switch

• Ports and density: 32 x 100G ports for high-throughput, low-latency connectivity suitable for core, distribution, and high-performance aggregation roles.
• Form factor: Fixed enterprise-class core/aggregation switch designed for reliable, scalable deployment in campus and data center networks.
• Processor architecture: x86-based CPU delivering robust performance and support for modern software features, automation, and virtualization capabilities.
• Software and licensing: Cisco IOS XE with Network Advantage (NW Adv) license included, enabling enhanced programmability, telemetry, and policy-driven networking.
• Programmability and APIs: Supports RESTCONF, NETCONF, and Python scripting for automation, configuration management, and integration with orchestration platforms.
• Security features: Enterprise-grade security with RBAC, encrypted management traffic, secure boot where applicable, and policy-driven access controls to protect control and data planes.
• Management and analytics: Compatible with Cisco DNA Center for end-to-end management, assurance, and analytics; supports integration with monitoring tools and telemetry streams for proactive network operations.
• Reliability and servicability: Design includes options for redundancy (such as power and cooling configurations) and hot-swappable components, helping maintain uptime in critical networks.

How to install Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series 32-Port 100G Switch

• Plan your deployment carefully by determining the role of the switch within your campus or data-center topology (core, distribution, or high-density aggregation) and identifying required Port, PoE, or uplink configurations.
• Rack and power the device in a suitable equipment area with appropriate environmental controls. Ensure availability of redundant power and cooling where your SKU supports them and verify that the power sources meet your facility’s requirements.
• Establish network connectivity by attaching the 32 x 100G interfaces to your fiber or copper distribution networks, and connect the management plane to a secure out-of-band or management network as needed.
• Access the switch for initial setup via the console port or secure remote management (SSH). Confirm hardware status, boot sequence, and firmware integrity before applying any configuration changes.
• Install or verify the Network Advantage license on the device. Update to the latest Cisco IOS XE software release to ensure maximum feature support, security patches, and performance improvements.
• Configure essential baseline settings: hostname, management IP, default gateway, NTP, time zone, and SNMP settings. Implement RBAC and authentication methods to restrict access to management interfaces.
• Enable and leverage automation and telemetry by connecting to Cisco DNA Center or your preferred network orchestration platform. Define policies, security groups, and automation workflows to accelerate provisioning and improve operational efficiency.
• Validate end-to-end connectivity and performance. Conduct throughput tests, latency checks, and failover scenarios to ensure the switch meets your service-level requirements before handing it over to production traffic.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Network Advantage license for the Catalyst 9500 Series? The Network Advantage (NW Adv) license unlocks enhanced programmability, automation, analytics, and advanced security features, enabling policy-driven networking and deeper visibility across the Catalyst 9500 platform.
• How many 100G ports does this switch provide? The model described offers 32 x 100G ports, making it well-suited for high-density core or distribution roles where large-scale data transfers are common.
• Is IOS XE used on the Catalyst 9500 Series? Yes. The Catalyst 9500 Series runs Cisco IOS XE, which supports modern automation interfaces such as RESTCONF, NETCONF, and Python scripting for programmable networks and streamlined operations.
• Can I manage the Catalyst 9500 with Cisco DNA Center? Absolutely. The Catalyst 9500 integrates with Cisco DNA Center for centralized provisioning, assurance, telemetry, and policy enforcement across your network.
• What security features are included? The device includes enterprise-grade security options such as RBAC, encrypted management traffic, secure access controls, and policy-based segmentation to protect critical services and data.
• Are redundant power and cooling options available? Depending on the SKU, the Catalyst 9500 may support redundant power supplies and hot-swappable fans, designed to maximize uptime in mission-critical environments.