Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T Ethernet Switch

Discover enterprise-grade reliability in a compact, fixed-managed Gigabit Ethernet switch—the Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T. This Cisco Catalyst 1000 Series model is built for small businesses and branch offices that need robust Layer 2 switching without the complexity of higher-end networks. It delivers secure, scalable connectivity for everyday office devices, IP cameras, printers, workstations, and the growing fleet of IoT endpoints, all while offering straightforward management that reduces administration time and operational costs. With Cisco’s proven reliability and long-term support, this switch helps you build a resilient network that grows with your business, delivering predictable performance, easy deployment, and enduring value.

• High‑density Gigabit performance: The C1000-48T provides 48 fixed Gigabit Ethernet ports that deliver dependable, wire-speed access for desktops, printers, cameras, POS systems, and other endpoint devices. This fixed configuration simplifies deployment and minimizes misconfigurations, making it ideal for small offices and branch sites demanding steady, low-latency connectivity for everyday business applications and real-time traffic like VoIP and video conferencing. With support for VLANs and smart traffic segmentation, you can keep critical resources separate from guest networks and IoT devices while preserving fast access for users.

• Simple management and security: Manage the C1000-48T with an intuitive web-based GUI and CLI, making configuration straightforward for IT teams of any size. Built-in security features, including ACLs, port security, and secure management options, help protect your network from unauthorized access. The switch supports modern management protocols and monitoring tools, enabling you to enforce security policies consistently across your small network and to monitor performance and health in real time.

• IoT-ready and flexible: The C1000-48T is well-suited to support a mixed environment of traditional devices and IoT endpoints. It enables you to create dedicated IoT VLANs, apply QoS to time-sensitive sensors and cameras, and centrally manage policies to keep IoT traffic isolated from core IT resources. This approach helps you scale IoT deployments securely while maintaining reliable service levels for critical applications across the network.

• Flexible deployment for growing networks: Designed to integrate smoothly with existing Cisco infrastructure, the Catalyst 1000 Series brings consistent features, policies, and management across your network. The C1000-48T supports VLANs, QoS, and security policies that can be standardized across multiple sites, ensuring uniform behavior as you add more switches or expand to additional branch offices. Its fixed port configuration eliminates guesswork during deployment, while its compatibility with Cisco management and security ecosystems helps you scale with confidence.

• Reliability and energy efficiency: Built for everyday office operation, the C1000-48T emphasizes quiet, energy-efficient performance suitable for work environments. The hardware is designed for consistent uptime, while efficient power management helps reduce operating costs over the device’s lifecycle. This combination of reliability and efficiency makes it a practical choice for businesses seeking stable, long-term network infrastructure without compromising on energy use or noise levels.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T Ethernet Switch

• Ports: 48 x 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45 Ethernet ports for easy, direct connections to desktops, printers, and IP devices.

• Uplink: 4 x 1G SFP uplink ports (SKU variations may include different uplink configurations).

• Management: Web GUI and CLI access with standard Cisco management features; IPv4/IPv6 support; SNMP for monitoring; secure management options.

• Layer: Fixed-managed Layer 2 switch with support for VLANs, basic QoS, and security policies to segment and protect traffic.

• Form factor and power: 1U rack-mountable fixed switch designed for office environments with energy-efficient operation.

• Operating system and compatibility: Runs Cisco IOS XE-based management environment with familiar configuration paradigms for administrators already using Cisco solutions.

How to install Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T Ethernet Switch

Installing the Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T is a straightforward process designed for quick deployment in small offices and branch sites. Follow these practical steps to bring the switch online and integrated with your existing network:

1) Plan and prepare: Review your network design, including VLANs, IP addressing, and security policies. Confirm SKU specifications for uplinks and power options, and ensure you have a compatible management computer or console connected to your network. Have any required cables (Ethernet patches and SFP modules if used) ready before installation.

2) Rack mounting and placement: Mount the switch in a standard 19-inch equipment rack or place it on a stable surface in a climate-controlled area. Ensure adequate ventilation to keep temperatures within recommended ranges and avoid placing the device near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

3) Power and cabling: Connect the switch to a suitable power source using the included power cord. Route cables neatly to prevent tangling and to maintain a clean, safe workspace. Verify that connected devices (desktops, printers, cameras, sensors) have network access through the 48 fixed ports and that uplink cables to your core network or distribution layer are properly seated in the SFP uplink ports.

4) Management access setup: Connect a laptop or management PC to the switch’s management network (either via DHCP or by assigning a static IP within the management subnet). Access the switch’s web-based GUI or connect through the CLI to begin initial configuration. If this is your first Cisco Catalyst device, consider enabling a secure management method, setting a strong administrative password, and configuring a management VLAN to isolate device management traffic from user data.

5) Initial configuration and validation: Create your initial network design in the switch, including VLANs for departments, IoT devices, and guest networks if needed. Configure QoS to prioritize critical applications like VoIP and video conferencing. Apply security policies such as ACLs and port security to limit access to trusted devices. Save the configuration and verify connectivity by testing access from endpoints and ensuring traffic routes correctly to the core network.

6) Firmware and ongoing maintenance: Check for the latest firmware updates from Cisco and apply them following the vendor’s recommended upgrade process. Establish a routine for monitoring switch health, reviewing logs, and auditing security policies. Document the configuration changes for future reference and support continuity.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the Cisco Catalyst C1000-48T Ethernet Switch best used for?

  A: It is designed for small businesses and branch offices needing reliable, Layer 2, fixed‑configuration Gigabit switching with straightforward management. It excels in office environments that require solid desk-to-desktop connectivity, secure network segmentation, and IoT-friendly deployments without the complexity of larger enterprise switches.

• Q: Does the C1000-48T support PoE on its ports?

  A: PoE capability varies by SKU in the Catalyst 1000 family. The C1000-48T in common configurations does not provide PoE on all ports in this form factor. If PoE is required, verify the exact SKU specifications or consider a Catalyst model designed for PoE, and plan power budgeting accordingly.

• Q: How many ports does it have and what about uplinks?

  A: The switch includes 48 fixed Gigabit Ethernet ports. Uplink options typically include 4 x 1G SFP ports (subject to SKU). This combination supports straightforward access connectivity and a scalable link to your core network or distribution layer.

• Q: Is this switch suitable for IoT deployments?

  A: Yes. Its design supports IoT-friendly networking, including VLAN segmentation and QoS to prioritize IoT traffic. That keeps sensors, cameras, and other devices isolated from critical IT resources while enabling centralized management and monitoring.

• Q: How do I manage and monitor the switch?

  A: Management is available through a web GUI and CLI. It supports standardized Cisco management practices, and can be integrated with existing monitoring systems (SNMP) and security policies. Regular firmware updates are recommended to maintain security and performance.

• Q: Can I scale this switch as my network grows?

  A: Yes. The C1000-48T is part of the Catalyst 1000 series, which is designed for consistent features and management across multiple switches. You can expand your network by adding additional fixed-config switches and applying uniform VLAN, QoS, and security policies to maintain consistent behavior across sites.