Introduction
Enterprise local area networks (LANs) are experiencing unprecedented demands. Between WiFi 6/7 access points requiring high-density Power over Ethernet (PoE+), smart IoT devices connecting to corporate grids, and cloud backup traffic, access layer switches must handle massive traffic loads.
The Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series is Cisco’s lead stackable enterprise access switching platform. In this post, we discuss why it has become the standard replacement for legacy Catalyst 3750 and 3850 models.
Key Architectural Advantages of Catalyst 9300
1. StackWise Technology
Stacking allows multiple physical switches to behave as a single logical switch. Cisco StackWise-480 architecture on Catalyst 9300 delivers up to 480 Gbps of stacking bandwidth. This creates automatic failover resilience: if a member switch fails, data packets reroute in milliseconds.
2. Advanced Power over Ethernet (PoE, PoE+, UPOE)
Modern access points and smart displays demand more than standard 15W PoE. Catalyst 9300 supports:
- PoE+: Up to 30W per port.
- UPOE: Up to 60W per port (and UPOE+ supporting up to 90W). This removes the need for ad-hoc power injectors in false ceilings.
3. Multigigabit Ethernet (mGig)
Instead of forcing expensive fiber recabling, Catalyst 9300 mGig ports support speeds of 10G, 5G, 2.5G, and 1G over standard Cat5e or Cat6 cables, providing an easy upgrade path for high-capacity endpoints.
Popular Cisco Catalyst 9300 Models
| Switch Model | Port Density | PoE Support | Stacking Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| C9300-24T | 24 Ports Data | None (Data Only) | StackWise-480 |
| C9300-48P | 48 Ports PoE+ | Yes (715W AC Base) | StackWise-480 |
| C9300-48U | 48 Ports UPOE | Yes (1100W AC Base) | StackWise-480 |
Summary Checklist for Upgrading
- Audit Power Budgets: Calculate total power requirements of IP phones, access points, and cameras before ordering power supply units (PSUs).
- Decide Stacking Cables: StackWise cables are separate accessories; verify correct lengths (0.5m, 1m, or 3m) during order planning.
- Verify Software Licenses: Catalyst switches run Cisco IOS XE and require Network Essentials or Network Advantage subscriptions.
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