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Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-E vs C9200L-24P-4X-E: Which Switch is Best for Growing Networks?

Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-E vs C9200L-24P-4X-E: Which Switch is Best for Growing Networks?

May 30, 2025

Peter Shaw

Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-E vs C9200L-24P-4X-E: Best Switch for Growing Networks

Expanding businesses require robust and scalable networking infrastructure to support increasing data traffic and connected devices. Cisco’s Catalyst 9200L Series switches are designed with this in mind, offering powerful features, high reliability, and flexible scalability. Two popular models in this series are the Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-E and the Cisco C9200L-24P-4X-E. This comparison will help you understand the differences and decide which switch best fits your growing network needs.

Overview of Cisco Catalyst 9200L Series

The Cisco Catalyst 9200L Series provides enterprise-grade Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, tailored for campus access and small-to-medium network deployments. These switches come equipped with advanced security, automation, and high availability features, making them ideal for organizations focused on scalability and operational efficiency.

Key Differences: C9200L-48P-4X-E vs C9200L-24P-4X-E

1. Port Density and PoE Support

  • C9200L-48P-4X-E:
    This model offers 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, all supporting Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+). It’s suitable for environments with a high number of endpoints, such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras.
  • C9200L-24P-4X-E:
    With 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports supporting PoE+, this switch is ideal for smaller networks or edge deployments where port density requirements are moderate.

2. Uplink Capacity

Both models feature four fixed 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplinks (4X), providing high-bandwidth connectivity to the core network or data center. This uplink capacity supports heavy traffic loads and ensures network performance.

3. Scalability

The 48-port switch is designed for growing networks that anticipate a higher number of connected devices, while the 24-port variant suits smaller or less dense network environments.

4. Physical Size and Power Consumption

  • The 48-port switch has a larger footprint and consumes more power due to the higher port count and PoE support.
  • The 24-port switch is more compact and energy-efficient, which can be advantageous for space-constrained deployments or where power savings are a priority.

Common Features Both Models Share

  • Advanced Security: Cisco TrustSec and MACsec encryption protect data across the network.
  • Network Automation: Integration with Cisco DNA Center allows for simplified management and automation.
  • High Availability: Support for StackWise technology enables up to eight switches to be managed as a single unit, increasing resilience and scalability.
  • Layer 3 Routing: Both switches support static routing, OSPF, and EIGRP, making them versatile for various network topologies.

Which Cisco Catalyst 9200L Switch is Right for Your Network?

Choosing between the Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-E and C9200L-24P-4X-E depends largely on your network size, device count, and growth plans.

  • Opt for the C9200L-48P-4X-E if:
    • Your network requires high port density to connect many devices.
    • You want to future-proof your infrastructure with room for growth.
    • You have higher power demands for PoE devices.
  • Choose the C9200L-24P-4X-E if:
    • You have a smaller network or fewer PoE devices.
    • Space or power consumption is a concern.
    • You want a cost-effective switch without compromising essential features.

Benefits of Cisco Catalyst 9200L Series for Growing Networks

  • Simplified Management: With Cisco DNA Center and network automation, IT teams can deploy and manage network policies quickly and efficiently.
  • Enhanced Security: Built-in security features protect your network from evolving threats without impacting performance.
  • Reliability: Redundant power supplies and StackWise technology minimize downtime.
  • Future-Ready: Supports software-defined access (SD-Access), enabling seamless network segmentation and automation as your network grows.

Conclusion

The Cisco C9200L-48P-4X-E and C9200L-24P-4X-E switches are both powerful choices within the Catalyst 9200L Series, designed to meet different network demands. Your decision should be guided by your current device count, power requirements, and plans for expansion.

For large or rapidly expanding networks requiring high port density and robust PoE support, the C9200L-48P-4X-E offers an ideal platform with scalability and advanced features. Conversely, for smaller or cost-sensitive deployments, the C9200L-24P-4X-E provides excellent performance and features in a more compact form factor.

Investing in either Cisco switch will ensure your growing network remains secure, manageable, and ready for future challenges.