Cisco NIM-2T Dual-Mode 2-Port Network Interface Module for Catalyst 8200/8300 Series

Designed for agile campus and edge networks, the Cisco NIM-2T delivers flexible, high‑performance connectivity in a compact, field‑replaceable module. This 2‑port dual‑mode network interface module combines copper and fiber uplinks, enabling you to mix 100 Mbps copper (RJ‑45) and 1 Gbps fiber (SFP) in a single card across Cisco’s Catalyst 8200 Series, 8200L, and all 8300 Series platforms. With MACsec capability built into the module, it offers secure on‑wire encryption without sacrificing throughput or port density, helping you protect sensitive data as it traverses campus backbones and intersite links. The NIM‑2T is engineered to maximize investment protection by supporting multiple transmission standards on a single card, reducing the need for separate, single‑purpose modules as your network evolves. Its modular design fits neatly into standard Cisco NIM slots, enabling rapid deployment of upgraded uplinks, simplified network segmentation, and scalable connectivity for data center edge, campus distribution, and branch networks. In practice, this NIM delivers reliable performance, flexible topology options, and robust security for today’s fast‑paced enterprise environments.

• The NIM-2T provides two versatile uplink ports that can operate at either 100 Mbps copper (RJ‑45) or 1 Gbps fiber (SFP), giving you dual‑mode flexibility to match your current and future network needs without replacing the entire module. This dual‑mode capability supports mixed deployments—use copper for shorter, cost‑effective links and fiber for longer, interference‑free connections—while preserving a compact, single‑slot footprint in the Catalyst chassis.
• Security is embedded at the hardware level with MACsec encryption, safeguarding data in transit across campus links and interconnects. This hardware‑accelerated protection minimizes CPU load and latency while maintaining high throughput, helping to enforce strong data‑plane security policies across distributed networks and edge devices.
• Compatibility and scalability are central to the NIM‑2T design. It supports Catalyst 8200 Series, 8200L, and all 8300 Series platforms, delivering consistent performance across a broad family of Cisco devices. Its hot‑swappable nature reduces downtime during upgrades, allowing you to insert or replace the module in service without a full chassis outage—ideal for campus outages, staged migrations, or rapid capacity expansion.
• High‑density performance with flexible uplinks enables diverse deployment scenarios—from data center edge interconnects to campus distribution and WAN aggregation. The NIM‑2T integrates smoothly with Cisco IOS XE, offering familiar configuration, centralized management, and compatibility with existing QoS, security, and policy frameworks. Expect predictable latency, stable throughput, and reliable operation under typical campus and enterprise traffic patterns.
• Easy deployment and management are emphasized throughout the product lifecycle. The NIM‑2T works with standard Cisco management tooling and CLI workflows, supports common monitoring protocols, and aligns with Cisco’s hardware lifecycle approach. This makes routine tasks—provisioning, monitoring, and upgrading—straightforward for network engineers, reducing operational overhead while maintaining robust performance and security.

Technical Details of Cisco NIM-2T

• Product type: Network Interface Module (NIM) for Cisco Catalyst platforms
• Ports: 2 physical ports (2‑port module)
• Interface speeds: 100 Mbps copper or 1 Gbps fiber per port (dual‑mode capability)
• Uplink options: Copper RJ‑45 and fiber SFP options supported by the module
• Security: MACsec hardware encryption built into the NIM
• Supported platforms: Cisco Catalyst 8200 Series, 8200L, and all 8300 Series platforms
• Form factor: Modular NIM designed for Cisco chassis slots; hot‑swappable according to Cisco guidelines
• Management and interoperability: Integrates with Cisco IOS XE; compatible with standard network management and security policies

How to install Cisco NIM-2T

• Power down the chassis or follow Cisco’s hot‑swap procedure if your platform supports in‑service NIM replacement. Verify you have the correct slot availability and that the device model and IOS XE version support the NIM‑2T.
• Prepare the module by handling it with proper ESD precautions. Remove any blanking plates from the NIM slot and confirm that port transceivers (SFPs) are properly installed if fiber is to be used.
• Insert the NIM‑2T firmly into an available NIM slot until it seats with a positive click. Avoid applying lateral force to prevent mechanical damage; once seated, secure any device‑side fasteners as required by the chassis design.
• Power on the device (or resume service per your hot‑swap procedure). Confirm the NIM is recognized by the system with the appropriate show commands (for example, show inventory or show platform hardware). Review transceiver status if SFPs are installed and monitored through the platform’s CLI or management interface.
• Configure the interfaces for your deployment. Enable the two ports with the desired speed and duplex settings, assign them to the appropriate VLANs, and apply QoS or security policies as required. If MACsec is enabled, ensure the proper key exchange, policy, and encryption settings are configured consistent with your security architecture.
• Test connectivity end‑to‑end across the new uplinks, verify throughput, and monitor for any errors or collisions. Validate that the paths align with your network design—whether as campus uplinks, data center edge links, or WAN aggregation points—and confirm stability under typical traffic conditions.
• Document the new hardware configuration for future support and inventory tracking. Update management records to reflect the NIM‑2T installation, port assignments, and any security configurations relevant to MACsec or policy enforcement.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What platforms support the Cisco NIM-2T?

  A: The NIM-2T is designed for Cisco Catalyst platforms, specifically the 8200 Series, 8200L, and all 8300 Series switches. These platforms accommodate modular NIMs to extend uplink capabilities and port densities.

• Q: What speeds and interfaces does the NIM-2T support?

  A: Each of the two ports on the NIM-2T can operate in either 100 Mbps copper or 1 Gbps fiber mode, giving you flexible uplink options that adapt to your current cabling and distance requirements.

• Q: Does the NIM-2T support MACsec?

  A: Yes. The NIM‑2T includes hardware‑based MACsec encryption to protect data traversing wired links, helping to secure campus networks and intersite connections without adding CPU overhead.

• Q: Is the NIM-2T hot‑swappable?

  A: Cisco NIMs are designed to be hot‑swappable in supported chassis configurations, allowing you to upgrade or replace modules with minimal or no downtime, depending on your maintenance window and hardware policies.

• Q: How should I configure the NIM-2T in a typical deployment?

  A: After installation, configure each port for the desired speed, duplex, VLAN assignment, and QoS policies. Enable MACsec if required by your security policy, and integrate with existing Cisco management tools to monitor link status, error counters, and throughput. Follow Cisco best practices for security hardening and network segmentation to maximize the benefits of the NIM‑2T.