The Catalyst 9000 Series – An Overview
With the Catalyst 9000 series, Cisco has created a platform that was specifically designed for digital transformation in companies. The focus is on the idea of a software-defined network (SDN) that combines central management, high security standards, and automatable processes.
The series is primarily aimed at businesses, government agencies, and educational institutions that want to operate large networks efficiently and securely. It supports both traditional on-premises infrastructures and cloud or hybrid approaches and is fully compatible with Cisco's DNA Center – the central platform for network management, automation, and analytics.
Which models belong to the Catalyst 9000 series?
The Catalyst 9000 series is divided into different models, each designed for specific use cases:
Catalyst 9200 series
These switches are designed for classic access layer scenarios. They are ideal for smaller branch offices or office buildings. The 9200 series offers basic Layer 2 and Layer 3 functions, has PoE+ support, and can be seamlessly integrated into DNA Center.
Typical features:
Up to 48 ports
Modular or fixed uplink
StackWise technology for redundancy
Affordable entry into the world of SD-Access
Catalyst 9300 Series
A true all-rounder in the access sector with significantly expanded functions compared to the 9200 series. The 9300 series offers greater scalability, a wider range of models, and expanded support for multigigabit Ethernet, making it particularly attractive for high-density environments.
Typical areas of application: Schools, hospitals, larger office networks, or industrial facilities with many end devices.
Catalyst 9400 Series
These modular switches are designed for the core or distribution layer in larger networks. They offer high port densities, modular expansions, and a redundant architecture.
Highlights:
Hot-swappable components
Support for supervisor engines
Ideal for high-availability enterprise networks
Catalyst 9500 Series
Designed for campus core environments, these switches offer particularly high performance in a small space. They support high-speed uplinks and enterprise-level Layer 3 functionality.
Particularly suitable for: Companies that require core routing with maximum performance, such as data centers or backbone connections.
Catalyst 9600 Series
The high-end variant for particularly large and demanding network environments. The 9600 Series is fully modular and offers comprehensive routing functionality, very high bandwidths, and maximum redundancy.
Significant features of the Catalyst 9000 Series
The strengths of the series lie not only in the hardware, but especially in the intelligent combination with software features:
Cisco DNA Center integration: Centralized control, configuration, and monitoring
Software Defined Access (SD-Access): Automated network segmentation
Trustworthy Systems: Security features such as MACsec encryption, secure boot, encrypted traffic analytics
PoE and UPOE support: Ideal for IP phones, cameras, access points
IoT capability: Industrial environments with sensors and control systems can also be integrated
Multigigabit functionality: A major advantage when using existing cable infrastructure, especially with the 9300 series
Differences at a glance
Although all models share the same DNA architecture, the series differ significantly in terms of function, performance, and expandability:
Model | Layer | Ports | Deployment Location | Redundancy | PoE Capability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9200 | Access | up to 48 | Branch, office | StackWise | Yes |
9300 | Access | up to 96 | Campus, High-Density | StackWise | Yes, incl. UPOE |
9400 | Distribution/ Core | modular | Large networks | Supervisor Engines | Yes |
9500 | Core | up to 48 | Datacenter, Campus Backbone | Dual PSU | Yes |
9600 | Core | modular | Enterprise Backbone | full redundancy | Yes |
Which series is suitable for whom?
Small and medium-sized businesses usually benefit from the 9200 or 9300 series, especially if the networks need to remain scalable.
Large campus environments or corporate headquarters do well with the 9400 and 9500 if high performance and redundancy are the main focus.
Critical infrastructures and large backbone networks rely on the Catalyst 9600 models to ensure maximum availability and performance.
Future-proof networks with the Catalyst 9000 series from Cisco
The Catalyst 9000 family combines performance, security, scalability, and centralized management at the highest level. Depending on their requirements, companies can choose between the series and, with integration into the Cisco DNA Center, receive a powerful and future-proof platform for their network management.
At IT-Market.com, we not only offer you a wide selection of new and refurbished Cisco Catalyst 9000 switches, but also comprehensive advice on the right solution for your infrastructure. Our certified technicians support you in selection, implementation, and maintenance—upon request, also as part of an individual CleverCare service contract.
Do you have questions about the Cisco Catalyst 9000 series or would you like to know which models are suitable for your environment? Then get in touch with us – the IT-Market.com team is here to help.