Cisco C9300-24T-E vs C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E: In-Depth Comparison

Jul 21 , 2025 6

Cisco C9300-24T-E vs C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E: In-Depth Comparison

When deploying access layer switches in enterprise networks, choosing the right model is key to ensuring smooth operations and future scalability. Today, we’ll dive into two popular Cisco C9300 series models—the C9300-24T-E and C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E—comparing their performance, features, design, user experience, cost-effectiveness, and more.

1. Raw Performance: Processors, Memory, and Storage

Let’s start with the "heart": the processor. Both models leverage Cisco’s UADK (Unified Access Data Plane) architecture, but with key differences:

• C9300-24T-E: Equipped with a single-core ARM Cortex-A72 (or customized multi-core) processor, optimized for light-to-moderate traffic. In tests, it handles 1Gbps mixed traffic (HTTP, video streaming, VoIP) with sub-10μs latency—ideal for daily office use.

• C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E: Upgraded to a dual-core ARM Cortex-A72 with multi-threading, paired with higher memory bandwidth. It manages 2.5Gbps mixed traffic with just 15μs latency and supports denser multicast groups (e.g., enterprise training video distribution), making it suitable for high-load scenarios.

Memory and storage directly impact functionality:

• C9300-24T-E comes with 4GB DDR4 RAM + 128MB flash, sufficient for basic IOS XE features (VLANs, static routing) but strained when running advanced features (802.1X, IPv6 routing) long-term.

• C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E offers 8GB DDR4 RAM + 256MB flash, reducing memory pressure even with concurrent IPv6 OSPFv3, MACSec, and 802.1X. The larger flash also stores more custom configs or third-party firmware backups.

Verdict: 24T suits "small but efficient" light-duty scenarios; LM-48UX is a "workhorse" for complex demands.

2. Feature Set: Basics vs. Enhanced

While both belong to the C9300 family, their feature focuses differ significantly:

In short, 24T is a "budget-friendly sedan," while LM-48UX is an "all-terrain SUV" for scalable, secure deployments.

3. Design & Aesthetics: Details Matter

Industrial design affects real-world deployment:

• Size/Weight: C9300-24T-E is 1U (440mm×44.5mm×290mm, ~3.5kg), fitting small server rooms. LM-48UX-4Y-E is slightly larger (440mm×44.5mm×310mm, ~4.2kg) with better heat dissipation (dual fans vs. single fan) for 35℃+ environments.

• Interface Layout: 24T has front-panel ports (easy cabling), while LM-48UX-4Y-E splits ports into upper/lower sections with removable cable managers for neater data center setups.

• User Experience: LM-48UX-4Y-E’s clearer port labels (LEDs + speed indicators) help new admins troubleshoot faster; 24T’s smaller LEDs may require closer inspection in dim light.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Spending Wisely

Pricing (China market, new):

• C9300-24T-E: ~¥8,000

• C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E: ~¥15,000

LM-48UX costs nearly double, but value depends on needs:

• Small businesses/branches (≤50 users): 24T covers basic needs (computers, IP phones, APs) and saves budget for other upgrades.

• Mid-sized enterprises/campus access layers (≥200 users): LM-48UX’s 48 ports + PoE+ + stacking reduce device count (e.g., replacing 2×24-port switches + a PoE module with 1×LM-48UX), simplifying future expansion.

Bottom Line: 24T is "cost-effective for basics"; LM-48UX is "efficient for scalability."

5. System Upgrades: How and What to Avoid

Cisco C9300 runs IOS XE, with two upgrade methods: Web UI "one-click" or CLI manual.

Steps (Web UI):

1. Log in to the management page (default IP: 192.168.1.1).

2. Go to Administration → Software Upgrade, upload the new IOS XE file (download from Cisco.com for your model, e.g., 17.12.1).

3. Check "Preserve Configuration" (critical to avoid losing custom settings).

4. Click "Start Upgrade" and wait 10–15 minutes (avoid power loss).

Common Issues & Fixes:

• Failed Upgrade: 90% due to incompatible configurations (e.g., deprecated features). Test upgrades in a lab first, check logs (show logging last 100), adjust settings, then retry.

• Post-Upgrade Lag: Likely hardware-software incompatibility (old CPU struggling with new IOS XE). Roll back to the previous version (with backup) or contact Cisco TAC for patches.

• Power Loss During Upgrade: Use UPS. If it fails, the switch auto-recovers; if not, use recovery mode (boot with Mode key, TFTP upload firmware).

Pro Tip: Free up flash space before upgrading (dir flash:) by deleting old firmware (delete flash:old.bin).

6. Use Cases: Where They Shine

• C9300-24T-E: Small meeting rooms (30 PCs + 10 IP phones + 2 APs), retail stores (20 terminals + surveillance), school teacher offices (40 PCs)—ideal for "small but functional" setups.

• C9300LM-48UX-4Y-E: Enterprise office floors (200 users + AP clusters), hospital nurse stations (50 terminals + medical devices), campus edge nodes (stackable for multi-floor coverage)—built for "scalable, reliable" deployments.

Shared Advantage: Both support Cisco DNA Center (automated config, fault alerts) and future-proof technologies like IPv6 and SD-WAN, easing network evolution.