Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Showdown:C9200-24P-A vs C9200-24P-E

Jul 03 , 2025 141

Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Showdown:C9200-24P-A vs C9200-24P-E 

When selecting a switch for campus or branch networks, Cisco’s Catalyst 9200 Series offers flexibility and scalability. But how do the C9200-24P-A and C9200-24P-E differ? Let’s break down their specs, use cases, and value propositions.

1. Performance Specs at a Glance

Why it matters: The C9200-24P-A prioritizes PoE+ density for IoT and VoIP, while the C9200-24P-E offers faster 10G uplinks for demanding applications.

2. Core Functionality

• C9200-24P-A:

• Edge-centric design: 24 PoE+/PoE++ ports for powering IP phones, cameras, and wireless APs.

• Basic stacking: Up to 8 switches in a stack for centralized management.

• C9200-24P-E:

• Future-proofing: Native 10G SFP+ uplinks for connecting to core switches or routers.

• Advanced security: Integrated TrustSec and MACsec encryption for sensitive data.

Why it matters: The C9200-24P-E is built for scalability, while the C9200-24P-A excels in cost-effective PoE deployments.

3. Design & Aesthetics

• Form Factor: Both are 1RU rack-mountable and fanless for quiet operation.

• Ports:

• C9200-24P-A: 24 front-facing RJ-45 ports (all PoE/PoE+).

• C9200-24P-E: 24 SFP+ slots (fiber/copper) + 4 combo ports for flexibility.

• Durability: MIL-SPEC-810H certified for extreme temperatures and vibrations.

Why it matters: The C9200-24P-A simplifies cable management, while the C9200-24P-E accommodates fiber deployments.

4. User Experience

• Management: Both support Cisco DNA Center, CLI, and REST APIs.

• Ease of Use:

• C9200-24P-A: Streamlined setup for PoE-heavy environments (e.g., SMBs).

• C9200-24P-E: Requires advanced configuration for VXLAN or TrustSec.

• Troubleshooting: LED indicators and Cisco Prime Infrastructure integration.

Why it matters: The C9200-24P-A is beginner-friendly; the C9200-24P-E targets network professionals.

5. Pricing & ROI

• C9200-24P-A: ~3,500–4,500 (street price).

• C9200-24P-E: ~5,000–6,500.

• Value Proposition: The C9200-24P-A delivers immediate PoE savings; the C9200-24P-E balances cost with long-term 10G scalability.

Why it matters: Tight budgets favor the C9200-24P-A; enterprises may prefer the C9200-24P-E’s upgrade potential.

6. Power Efficiency

• Idle Power: ~35W (both).

• Under Load: ~150W (C9200-24P-A) vs. ~180W (C9200-24P-E).

• Efficiency Rating: ENERGY STAR compliant, but the C9200-24P-A uses less power under heavy PoE loads.

Why it matters: Greener deployments or cost-sensitive sites may lean toward the C9200-24P-A.

7. Compatibility & Expansion

• C9200-24P-A:

• Works with Cisco ISR/ASR routers and third-party PoE devices.

• Limited to 24 ports (no expansion slots).

• C9200-24P-E:

• Supports 10G SFP+ modules for fiber uplinks.

• Stacking with Catalyst 9200/9300 switches.

Why it matters: The C9200-24P-E future-proofs your network; the C9200-24P-A is plug-and-play.

8. Software Enablement

• Shared Features:

• SD-WAN (Viptela integration), TrustSec segmentation, Meraki cloud management.

• C9200-24P-E Exclusive:

• VXLAN/EVPN overlays with advanced licensing.

Why it matters: The C9200-24P-E is ideal for cloud-native architectures.

Final Recommendation

• Pick the C9200-24P-A if:
  You need a budget-friendly, PoE-dense switch for SMBs or branch offices with no near-term plans for 10G upgrades.

• Choose the C9200-24P-E if:
  Scalability, fiber connectivity, and advanced security/features are critical for your evolving network.

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