Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Network Module 2-Port 40 Gigabit Ethernet with QSFP+

Designed for high-performance enterprise networks, the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Network Module delivers dense 40 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity via QSFP+ for optical networks and data backbones. This module is engineered to integrate with the Catalyst 9500 family, offering scalable performance, robust security features, and industry-leading QoS to support latency-sensitive applications, virtualization, and large-scale workloads. With QSFP+ technology and 40GBASE-X signaling over optical fiber, it enables long-reach links and flexible deployment across campus cores, data centers, and edge aggregations. Built for reliability and efficiency, it helps organizations maximize uptime while expanding their bandwidth footprint to meet growing traffic demands.

• High-density 40G connectivity: The module provides two QSFP+ ports delivering 40 Gigabit Ethernet per port, enabling high-bandwidth uplinks and server-to-storage connections while preserving valuable switch space and reducing rack footprint in dense data-center deployments.
• QSFP+ optical interface for flexible fiber options: With QSFP+ form factor and 40GBASE-X signaling, it supports both multi-mode and single-mode fiber options, enabling flexible deployment across campus networks, data centers, and metro environments with varying distance requirements.
• Enterprise-grade reliability and performance: Built for Cisco’s robust Catalyst architecture, this network module offers dependable operation under heavy traffic, efficient traffic management, and strong error detection to minimize packet loss and latency in mission-critical workloads.
• Expansion-ready design with scalable growth: Featuring 2.0 x Expansion Slots, the module is engineered for seamless insertion into Catalyst 9500 chassis, enabling effortless scalability as your network grows and bandwidth demands rise.
• Optimized for data and optical networks: The 40GBase-X capability supports a range of use cases—from high-speed data center uplinks to inter-switch links and aggregation points—delivering reliable performance for modern, software-defined networks.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Network Module 2-port 40 Gigabit Ethernet with QSFP+

• Optical Fiber and 40GBASE-X: 40 Gigabit Ethernet via QSFP+ with 40GBASE-X signaling for high-throughput fiber connectivity.
• Ports and speed: 2-port 40 Gigabit Ethernet (QSFP+); up to 80 Gbps total theoretical bandwidth across both ports.
• Expansion slots: 2.0 x Expansion Slots integrated within the Catalyst 9500 module framework to allow scalable installation.
• Module type: Network Module designed for Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series switches; intended for optical network use cases and data networking.
• Form factor: QSFP+ interface with suitable fiber connectors (compatibility to be confirmed with fiber type and MPO/MX connectors as per deployment).
• Compatibility: Designed to fit Cisco Catalyst 9500 series chassis; check Cisco interoperability guides and SKU/UPC references for exact model compatibility.

How to install Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Network Module 2-Port 40 Gigabit Ethernet with QSFP+

Installing the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series network module is a straightforward process when upgrading data center or campus core networks. Follow these steps to ensure a correct and safe installation that minimizes downtime and protects your investment:

• Verify compatibility: Confirm that your Catalyst 9500 chassis supports the 40G QSFP+ network module and that the exact SKU/UPC aligns with the hardware you purchased. Review Cisco’s product compatibility guides and the Synnex specifications page for precise references.
• Power down or prepare for minimal downtime: If your deployment policy requires, power down the switch or coordinate a maintenance window to minimize disruption. In many configurations, modular network upgrades can be performed with limited downtime, but always follow your organization’s change control process.
• Prepare the slot: Identify an available expansion slot within the Catalyst 9500 chassis. Ensure the chassis is properly grounded and you’re using an ESD-safe environment.
• Align and insert the module: Hold the module by the edges and align the connectors with the slot. Slide it into place until you hear or feel a secure latch engage. Confirm any green OK LED indicators or slot-specific confirmation from Cisco’s documentation.
• Attach fiber cabling: Connect the QSFP+ fiber optic cables to the port interfaces, ensuring the correct polarity and pairing for your fiber type (multi-mode or single-mode as required). Use appropriate fiber connectors and ferrules as specified in your deployment plan.
• Power and verify: Restore power or apply the required power state. Use the switch’s CLI or GUI to verify that the module is recognized, the ports are up, and the 40G links are established. Check interface status, speed, duplex settings, and any LED indicators to confirm a healthy deployment.
• Configure your networks: Apply your QoS, VLANs, and routing policies to the new uplinks. Update any monitoring tools to reflect the new 40G interfaces and ensure traffic is properly balanced across the two ports for load sharing and redundancy.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series Network Module 2-Port 40 Gigabit Ethernet with QSFP+ used for? It provides high-density 40GbE connectivity for core uplinks, data center interconnects, and high-bandwidth server or storage connections within enterprise networks and data centers.
• How many ports does it have and what speeds? It features 2 ports, each supporting 40 Gigabit Ethernet via QSFP+ (40GBASE-X).
• What fiber options does it support? The module uses optical fiber interfaces; it supports fiber types that are compatible with 40GBASE-X implementations, including suitable single-mode or multi-mode fiber according to your deployment.
• Is this module hot-swappable? In compatible Cisco Catalyst chassis, network modules are designed to slot in and function without taking the entire switch offline, though it’s best to follow Cisco guidelines and change-control procedures for production environments.
• What does 2.0 x Expansion Slots indicate? It indicates the module’s support for expansion within the chassis architecture, enabling flexible installation and future growth as bandwidth needs increase.
• Where can I find exact specifications and compatibility? Refer to Cisco product documentation and the specifications listed by the reseller (e.g., Synnex) for SKU/UPC references and model compatibility with your Catalyst 9500 chassis.