Cisco Catalyst C9300LM-48T-4Y Ethernet Switch: High-Performance Edge Networking for Hybrid Environments

The Cisco Catalyst C9300LM-48T-4Y Ethernet Switch is engineered to power modern, security-focused networks at the edge. This robust 48-port, 10/100/1000 Mbps copper switch is purpose-built for hybrid workspaces, branch offices, and campus edge deployments where reliability, scalability, and intelligent management are non-negotiable. With a design that emphasizes ease of deployment, lifecycle automation, and enterprise-grade security, the C9300LM-48T-4Y helps IT teams deliver fast, consistent user experiences across devices, applications, and IoT endpoints—without compromising on control or protection. Whether you’re consolidating network access, supporting high-density wireless environments, or enabling rapid policy enforcement across multiple sites, this model offers a solid foundation for future-proof networks. From small teams to distributed organizations, it provides the performance, resilience, and manageability required for today’s workloads and tomorrow’s innovations.

• 48-port copper connectivity with 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45 interfaces delivers flexible, cost-efficient cabling and easy device compatibility for desktops, printers, IP phones, and wireless access points. This broad port mix supports quick migration from older installations while maintaining solid performance for latency-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video conferencing in hybrid work models.
• Four 1G SFP uplink ports provide scalable fiber connectivity to distribution or data center layers, enabling efficient neighborhood segmentation, high-speed inter-switch links, and simplified fiber backhaul. The uplinks help future-proof your network as bandwidth demands grow and density increases in campus and edge environments.
• Layer 3 routing capabilities, combined with robust security features, empower intelligent traffic steering, policy enforcement, and secure remote access. Expect solid support for routing protocols, access control lists, and traffic segmentation that protects sensitive data as it traverses the network, even at the edge where threats are most prevalent.
• Enterprise-grade security and segmentation features, including access control mechanisms, 802.1X authentication, and encryption options, help protect user devices and critical resources. The switch is designed to work with Cisco’s security ecosystem to enforce consistent policies, reduce attack surfaces, and simplify compliance across distributed sites.
• Service-rich performance with QoS, traffic prioritization for latency-sensitive applications, and ease of management through Cisco DNA Center integration. This combination enables automated policy deployment, centralized monitoring, and rapid troubleshooting—crucial for maintaining quality user experiences in hybrid work scenarios and evolving cloud-based workloads.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst C9300LM-48T-4Y Ethernet Switch

• Ports: 48 x 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45 Ethernet ports
• Uplink: 4 x 1G SFP uplink ports
• Performance: designed to support high-density edge deployments with reliable throughput for standard enterprise workloads
• Routing: supports Layer 3 features, including static routing and dynamic routing protocols
• Security: integrated security features such as ACLs, 802.1X, and encryption options to protect data-in-motion and control access
• Management: compatible with Cisco DNA Center and centralized management for policy automation, visibility, and assurance
• Power & Efficiency: built for dependable operation with energy-conscious design and efficient power management to lower operational costs

How to Install Cisco Catalyst C9300LM-48T-4Y Ethernet Switch

Before you begin, ensure you have the appropriate rack space, cabling, and a compatible power supply configuration. Plan your IP addressing and security policies in advance to minimize post-install changes. Begin with a staged deployment in a lab or piloting environment if possible, then scale to live sites as you validate functionality and performance.

• Mount the switch securely in a standard 19-inch equipment rack, ensuring adequate airflow and clearance for cooling fans and cables.
• Connect the four uplink SFP ports to your core or distribution layer using appropriate fiber transceivers and cables, verifying link status on the management console.
• Attach the 48 RJ-45 access ports to user devices, servers, or wireless access points as per your network design, while maintaining planned VLANs and access control policies.
• Configure initial device settings via console or secure remote management, including hostname, management IP, SNMP, NTP, and basic security features such as 802.1X and ACLs.
• Enable and tailor QoS policies, routing configurations, and security features, and integrate with Cisco DNA Center or your preferred management platform to automate provisioning and monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Is the Cisco Catalyst C9300LM-48T-4Y PoE-enabled? A: This model is typically a non-PoE variant focused on edge connectivity with RJ-45 access ports. If PoE is required for devices like IP phones or wireless access points, consider PoE-enabled variants within the Catalyst 9300 family.
• Q: Can I stack multiple C9300LM-48T-4Y switches? A: Cisco 9300 series switches support stackable configurations using StackWise technology or similar stacking methods, enabling simplified management, increased resilience, and scalable uplink bandwidth across multiple units.
• Q: What deployment scenarios is this switch best suited for? A: It is ideal for hybrid work environments, branch offices, and campus edge deployments where reliable access-layer connectivity, secure policy enforcement, and straightforward management are priorities.
• Q: Does it integrate with Cisco DNA Center? A: Yes, this model is designed to work with Cisco DNA Center for centralized policy automation, network assurance, and streamlined lifecycle management across distributed sites.
• Q: What kind of security features can I expect? A: Expect enterprise-grade security features such as ACLs, port security, 802.1X authentication, and encryption options to protect data-in-motion and enforce granular access controls at the edge.