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Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series: In-Depth Review of C9300X-24Y-A & C9300X-12Y-A Models

Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series: In-Depth Review of C9300X-24Y-A & C9300X-12Y-A Models

May 12, 2025

Peter Shaw

Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series: Deep Dive Into the C9300X-24Y-A & C9300X-12Y-A

Cisco has long been a leader in enterprise networking, consistently delivering innovative and reliable hardware solutions. The Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series continues this legacy with advanced features, robust performance, and flexible deployment options. In this article, we take a detailed look at two prominent models in this series — the C9300X-24Y-A and the C9300X-12Y-A — to help IT professionals understand their capabilities and decide which fits their network needs best.

Overview of the Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series

The Catalyst 9300X Series is Cisco’s flagship stackable enterprise switch platform, designed for secure, scalable, and high-performance campus networks. Built with a focus on increased throughput and future-proof architecture, these switches provide improved hardware capabilities and support advanced software features including Cisco DNA (Digital Network Architecture).

Key advantages of the 9300X Series include:

  • Enhanced 10/25/40GbE uplink options
  • High throughput with low latency
  • Flexible stacking capabilities up to 8 units
  • Advanced security and automation features
  • Support for Cisco IOS XE software for programmability

Introducing the C9300X-24Y-A

The C9300X-24Y-A is a 24-port switch offering from the 9300X lineup, tailored for organizations requiring dense 10 Gigabit Ethernet access ports. Here are the key highlights:

  • Port Configuration: 24 x 10GBASE-T ports capable of delivering high-speed connectivity to servers, access points, and high-demand endpoints.
  • Uplink Flexibility: Equipped with 4 x 25 Gigabit SFP28 uplink ports to facilitate high-capacity uplinks and network aggregation.
  • Stacking: Supports Cisco StackWise Virtual technology with up to 480 Gbps stack bandwidth, allowing seamless scalability and simplified management.
  • Performance: Delivers wire-speed switching with advanced QoS, multicast, and security features.
  • Power & Cooling: Designed for efficient power consumption and heat dissipation, making it ideal for data centers and campus core deployments.

This model is perfect for enterprises looking to upgrade their infrastructure with high-density 10GbE ports and superior uplink speeds while maintaining Cisco’s trusted reliability.

Exploring the C9300X-12Y-A

The C9300X-12Y-A is a slightly more compact offering designed for environments that need a balance between port density and uplink capacity. Key features include:

  • Port Configuration: 12 x 10GBASE-T ports providing high-speed connectivity for medium-sized deployments.
  • Uplink Options: Like its 24-port sibling, it offers 4 x 25 Gigabit SFP28 uplinks, ensuring robust network backbone connectivity.
  • Stacking Support: Full support for StackWise Virtual, allowing these switches to be combined with others for enhanced redundancy and scalability.
  • Optimized for Flexibility: Its smaller footprint is ideal for wiring closets or smaller network aggregation points.

Organizations that require a leaner switch with powerful uplink options and consistent Cisco DNA benefits find this model a smart choice.

Why Choose the Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series?

Both the C9300X-24Y-A and C9300X-12Y-A models offer features that go beyond basic switching. Some compelling reasons to consider these switches include:

  • Security: Advanced segmentation and Cisco TrustSec integration protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access.
  • Automation: Integrated support for Cisco DNA Center enables simplified management, automated provisioning, and rapid troubleshooting.
  • Scalability: With StackWise Virtual, organizations can build resilient, scalable networks that grow with their needs.
  • Future-Ready: Supports 25 Gigabit uplinks and flexible port configurations, future-proofing the network against increasing bandwidth demands.
  • Energy Efficiency: Designed to reduce power consumption and operational costs with efficient hardware components.

Use Cases for C9300X-24Y-A & C9300X-12Y-A

  • Enterprise Access Layer: Both models are perfect for connecting end-user devices, access points, and IP phones in enterprise campuses.
  • Data Center Aggregation: The 24-port model especially excels as a high-density aggregation switch for server racks.
  • Branch Offices: The 12-port variant is well-suited for branch office networks requiring high throughput with compact hardware.
  • Network Core in SMBs: These switches can serve as core switches for small to medium-sized businesses, offering scalability and advanced feature sets.

Conclusion

The Cisco Catalyst 9300X Series, particularly the C9300X-24Y-A and C9300X-12Y-A, represents Cisco’s commitment to high-performance, secure, and scalable networking solutions. Whether you need a dense 24-port switch with powerful uplinks or a compact 12-port model for smaller spaces, these switches provide the flexibility and features to support modern enterprise network demands.

By integrating cutting-edge hardware with Cisco’s robust software ecosystem, the 9300X Series is a smart investment for organizations focused on future-proofing their network infrastructure.