Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24T-4X-E vs C9200L-48PL-4X-A: A Modern Campus Switch Face-Off

Jul 15 , 2025 6

Cisco Catalyst C9200L-24T-4X-E vs C9200L-48PL-4X-A: A Modern Campus Switch Face-Off

In today’s evolving campus networks, Cisco’s Catalyst series remains a cornerstone for organizations seeking flexibility and performance. This detailed comparison between the C9200L-24T-4X-E and C9200L-48PL-4X-A will guide you through their unique strengths, empowering you to make a strategic choice.

1. Product Overview

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Ports: 24x 10G SFP+ + 4x 10G SFP+ (expandable with optional modules)

• Switching Capacity: 128Gbps

• Forwarding Rate: 95.23Mpps

• ASIC: Cisco Trio ASIC

• Buffer: 0.5MB per port

• Key Features: Advanced stacking (up to 8 switches), IPv6 first-hop security, and modular SFP+ expansion.

• Best For: Hyperconverged clusters, AI/ML workloads, and future-proofed core networks.

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• Ports: 48x 802.3af/at PoE++ + 4x 10G SFP+

• Switching Capacity: 128Gbps

• Forwarding Rate: 95.23Mpps

• ASIC: Cisco Trio ASIC

• Buffer: 0.5MB per port

• Key Features: EnergyWise power management, Cisco DNA Center integration, and compact 1RU design.

• Best For: IoT deployments, Wi-Fi 6 access points, and dense PoE-powered environments.

  
  

2. Performance Showdown

3. Functionality Breakdown

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Higher power draw due to advanced stacking features.

• StackWise-480 technology for unified management of up to 8 switches.

• IPv6 first-hop security for robust routing protection.

• Core Strengths:

• Limitations:

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• No stacking support for multi-switch environments.

• EnergyWise optimizes power distribution for IoT devices.

• Cisco DNA Center integration simplifies network automation.

• Game-Changing Features:

• Limitations:

4. Design & Aesthetics

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Rugged 1RU metal chassis with redundant fan trays.

• Modular design supports flexible uplink configurations.

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• Sleek 1RU form factor with front-facing PoE status LEDs.

• Optimized airflow for high-density PoE deployments.

5. User Experience

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Advanced CLI scripting and REST API support for DevOps workflows.

• Comprehensive monitoring via Cisco Prime Infrastructure.

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• Intuitive web-based GUI for rapid deployment.

• Zero-touch provisioning with Cisco DNA Center.

6. Pricing Strategy

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Premium model (~8,000–10,000 USD), justified by advanced scalability and security.

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• Cost-effective entry point (~6,000–8,000 USD), ideal for budget-sensitive deployments.

7. Compatibility & Expansion

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Stacks with other Catalyst 9200/9300 switches.

• Supports third-party SFP+ transceivers for fiber uplinks.

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• Limited to 48 PoE ports but compatible with Cisco EnergyWise devices.

• Expandable via optional 10G SFP+ modules.

8. Software Ecosystem

• Both switches run NX-OS, but the C9200L-24T-4X-E prioritizes:

• Advanced security features (e.g., MACsec).

• Integration with Cisco Stealthwatch for threat detection.

• AI-driven network analytics.

9. Battery Consumption

Neither switch requires internal batteries. The C9200L-24T-4X-E’s redundant power supplies ensure failover resilience during outages.

10. Real-World Scenarios

• C9200L-24T-4X-E:

• Deployed in university campuses for high-density classroom connectivity.

• C9200L-48PL-4X-A:

• Deployed in smart buildings for IoT sensor networks and Wi-Fi 6 APs.

11. Final Recommendations

Choose the C9200L-24T-4X-E if:
✓ Scalability and stacking are critical for future growth.
✓ Advanced security and automation are non-negotiable.

Opt for the C9200L-48PL-4X-A if:
✓ Simplicity and cost-effectiveness drive your purchasing decision.
✓ You prioritize PoE++ density for IoT/Wi-Fi 6.