Extreme Networks QSFP28 Module — 100GBASE-SR4 Multi-Mode Transceiver

The Extreme Networks QSFP28 Module is a high-performance 100G Ethernet transceiver designed for today's data centers and high-density campus networks. Engineered to deliver reliable, scalable throughput, this QSFP28 SR4 module leverages parallel multi-mode fiber to provide rapid, low-latency connections between aggregation and spine switches, top-of-rack devices, and unified fabric architectures. Built for Extreme Networks environments, it combines plug-and-play simplicity with robust optical performance to support demanding traffic patterns such as virtualization, cloud services, and large-scale storage replication. Whether you’re upgrading an existing 40G/100G fabric or deploying a new 100G topology, this module is designed to optimize your network’s efficiency, space, and operational costs.

• Extreme Networks 100GBASE-SR4 performance: This QSFP28 module is purpose-built for 100 Gigabit Ethernet using the SR4 signaling standard, delivering four parallel 25 Gbps lanes over multimode fiber. The SR4 approach reduces switch port counts and enables straightforward, high-bandwidth uplinks across data-center fabrics. This translates into lower port density, simplified cable management, and improved link reliability in dense topologies. The module is optimized for short-reach data-center deployments, where the majority of interconnects fall within 100 meters, making it an ideal choice for top-of-rack and end-of-row solutions that require fast, predictable performance.
• Multi-mode fiber architecture with high compatibility: Designed for multi-mode fiber (MMF) deployments, this transceiver supports OM3 and OM4 fiber types, offering substantial bandwidth headroom and future-proofing for evolving workloads. MMF SR4 links are common in modern data centers due to their cost efficiency and compatibility with standard data-center infrastructures. By leveraging multi-mode fiber, you can achieve high data rates with cost-effective cabling, while still maintaining robust signal integrity and low insertion loss across typical data-center distances.
• High-density, scalable design for data centers: The QSFP28 form factor consolidates 100 Gbps into a compact module suitable for dense switch line cards and spine-leaf architectures. This enables data centers to scale their networks with fewer slots and simpler cable management, reducing rack space requirements and power consumption. The module’s design aligns with modern data-center fabric strategies, enabling seamless upgrades from 40G to 100G with minimal disruption and maximal return on investment.
• Plug-and-play reliability with Extreme Networks hardware: Built to integrate seamlessly with Extreme Networks switches and routers, the module supports hot-swapping on supported platforms and offers straightforward management through standard CLI and management interfaces. Expect predictable link establishment, straightforward diagnostics, and dependable performance across mixed workloads—from latency-sensitive virtualized apps to large-scale data transfers and analytics pipelines.
• Reliable performance with predictable reach and latency: The SR4 interface leverages four parallel 25 Gbps channels to deliver consistent throughput while maintaining tight tolerances on latency. This makes it well-suited for latency-sensitive environments such as real-time analytics, high-frequency trading testbeds, and interactive cloud services that require consistent, deterministic network behavior. In addition, the module’s robust optical engineering helps minimize jitter, amplification noise, and cross-talk across the four lanes, ensuring stable performance even under dynamic traffic conditions.

Technical Details of Extreme Networks QSFP28 Module

• Form factor: QSFP28 transceiver module designed for high-density 100G deployments.
• Data rate: 100 Gbps in a four-lane SR4 configuration (four 25 Gbps lanes).
• Optical compatibility: Multi-mode fiber (MMF), optimized for OM3/OM4 fiber types to support short-reach data-center links.
• Wavelength and optics: 850 nm SR4 laser/receiver technology to enable parallel 4x25 Gbps transmission over MMF.
• Connector interface: Intended for QSFP28 assemblies; uses multi-fiber connectivity consistent with SR4 specifications in most data-center deployments (MPO/MTP-style multi-fiber interface on the fiber side).
• Reach: Up to approximately 100 meters (328 feet) on OM3/OM4 MMF, suitable for within-rack and across-rack applications in typical data-center layouts.
• Power and thermal: Engineered for typical data-center cooling environments with power characteristics aligned to standard QSFP28 modules; designed for continuous operation in busy networks.
• Management and compatibility: Optimized for seamless interoperability with Extreme Networks devices; supports hot-swapping on compatible platforms and straightforward management through common provisioning tools.

How to Install Extreme Networks QSFP28 Module

• Power down or follow your institution’s power-down guidelines for the device into which you are installing the module, or ensure the port is disabled per your management policy to reduce risk during hot-swap procedures.
• Identify the appropriate empty QSFP28 port on the Extreme Networks switch or router that supports 100GBASE-SR4 modules, ensuring compatibility with your hardware model and software version.
• Remove the existing transceiver (if applicable) by gently unlatching the module from its slot and carefully pulling it straight out, taking care to avoid bending any cables or stressing the connector pins.
• Align the new Extreme Networks QSFP28 module with the slot and insert it firmly until it seats with a click. Do not force the module; improper seating can cause improper link establishment or damage.
• Connect your MMF fiber cable to the appropriate connector on the module (as specified by your deployment, typically MPO/MTP for SR4 in MMF). Route cables to prevent excessive bending and ensure proper cable management for airflow and maintenance access.
• Power on the device (or re-enable the port) and verify link status through the management interface. Confirm that the port negotiates to 100G, check the optical link reliability, and monitor error counters to ensure a healthy connection. If needed, perform a basic loopback test or traffic test to validate end-to-end performance.

Frequently asked questions

• What is a QSFP28 100GBASE-SR4 module? It is a high-density, hot-swappable transceiver that uses four parallel 25 Gbps channels to achieve 100 Gbps data rates over short-reach multi-mode fiber. SR4 optics are commonly deployed in data centers to provide efficient, high-capacity uplinks between switches and storage devices, enabling scalable fabrics and reduced interconnect complexity.
• What type of fiber does it use? The SR4 100GBASE-SR4 module is designed for multi-mode fiber (MMF), typically OM3 or OM4, which supports short-range, high-bandwidth links suitable for data-center environments. This makes it a cost-effective option for within-rack and across-rack interconnects.
• What distances can I expect? Depending on the fiber type and quality, you can achieve up to about 100 meters (approximately 328 feet) on OM3/OM4 MMF. For longer runs, other 100G standards or single-mode solutions may be required, but SR4 excels in data-center topologies where short reach is the norm.
• Is the module compatible with Extreme Networks switches? Yes. The Extreme Networks QSFP28 SR4 module is designed for compatibility with Extreme Networks devices, providing plug-and-play capability and straightforward management through the vendor’s tooling and interfaces when used on supported hardware and software versions.
• How do I install and verify the module? Follow the installation steps listed above: insert into the correct QSFP28 port, connect MMF fiber, and confirm link negotiation to 100G with proper signal integrity checks using your management interface. If the port fails to come online, consult the hardware compatibility guide and verify fiber quality, connector cleanliness, and correct orientation of the module.