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Cisco C9300-48P-E vs C9300-48P-A: A Detailed Comparison of 48-Port PoE+ Access Switches
Jul 18 , 2025 6

Cisco C9300-48P-E vs C9300-48P-A: A Detailed Comparison of 48-Port PoE+ Access Switches

In enterprise network access layer selection, the choice between a "basic" and "enhanced" 48-port PoE+ switch often hinges on "general-purpose" vs "specialized" needs. As members of Cisco’s Catalyst 9300 series, the C9300-48P-E (48-port Gigabit PoE+ fixed access switch) and C9300-48P-A (48-port Gigabit PoE++ enhanced access switch) share the same family DNA but diverge significantly in power delivery, expansion capabilities, and use cases. This article breaks down their core differences from hardware specs, features, design, user experience, to cost-effectiveness.

1. Performance Differences: "Stable Output" vs "Powerful Burst"

Both models leverage the Cisco Silicon One Q200 chipset, delivering identical foundational performance: ~2.56Tbps switching capacity and 1.92Mpps packet forwarding rate. However, their performance manifests differently under load:

  • C9300-48P-E: Optimized for general PoE+ use, it uses standard PoE+ modules (30W/port). In full load (48 ports ×1Gbps +24 PoE devices), latency is ~4.5μs, with a total power consumption of ~650W. Ideal for small-to-medium enterprises or community centers.

  • C9300-48P-A: Designed for high-load PoE++ deployments, it upgrades to enhanced PoE++ modules (60W/port) and optimizes cooling (additional fans + heat sinks). In full load (48 ports ×1Gbps +48 PoE++ devices), latency remains stable at ~4.8μs, with a total power consumption of ~900W. Perfect for large venues or industrial sites.

2. Feature Set: "General Coverage" vs "Specialized Expansion"

Their functional differences stem from power delivery and expansion design:

FeatureC9300-48P-EC9300-48P-A
Power Delivery48×PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at), 30W/port, total ≈740W (dual power supply)48×PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt), 60W/port, total ≈1,440W (dual redundant power)
ExpansionNo modular slots; 48 ports fixedSupports 1 modular slot (SFP+/10G interfaces)
Stack SupportStackWise-480 (up to 8 units, 192 ports)StackWise-480 (up to 8 units, 192 ports)
Ideal Use CasesSmall-to-medium offices, community centersLarge venues, industrial facilities
C9300-48P-E vs C9300-48P-A.jpg

3. Design & Aesthetics: "Compact" vs "Robust"

Both follow Cisco’s "industrial reliability" design, but details reflect their use cases:

  • Size & Weight:
    C9300-48P-E is compact (480mm×44.5mm×400mm, ~9kg); C9300-48P-A is bulkier (500mm×44.5mm×420mm, ~10.5kg) with added cooling grilles.

  • Port Layout:
    48P-E has a clean 2×24 port arrangement; 48P-A includes a modular slot (labeled "MOD") for hot-swappable modules.

  • Labeling:
    48P-E marks PoE+ ports with a yellow "PoE+" icon; 48P-A uses an orange "PoE++ MAX" to highlight its enhanced power.

4. User Experience: "Effortless Setup" vs "Professional Management"

User experience hinges on deployment scale and device type:

  • C9300-48P-E: Perfect for general use. A 200-person office with 50 IP phones and 30 APs can connect all devices via 48P-E, using Cisco DNA Center for one-click PoE+ configuration.

  • C9300-48P-A: Built for specialized needs. A large stadium with 80 4K cameras (60W each) and 20 APs can rely on 48P-A’s 60W ports and modular design for stable, scalable connectivity.

5. Cost-Effectiveness: Matching Needs to Avoid Waste

C9300-48P-A costs 30%-40% more than 48P-E, primarily due to enhanced PoE++ modules and cooling. The key is aligning with high-power PoE device count:

  • Small-to-medium offices with 20-40 PoE devices: 48P-E’s "48 ports +740W" is cost-effective.

  • Large venues with 50+ high-power PoE devices: 48P-A’s "48 ports +1,440W" avoids multiple switches, saving long-term costs.

6. System Upgrades: Common Issues and Fixes

Both support IOS XE upgrades (e.g., 17.3.x to 17.6.x) via DNA Center or CLI, but 48P-A requires extra care:

Issue TypeSymptomSolution
Power Module CompatibilityRed blinking after upgradeUse Cisco’s compatibility matrix to confirm power module support; replace with official models.
Uneven PoE++ DeliverySome devices underpoweredCheck power load balance with show power inline; redistribute ports across power supplies.
Modular Interface FailureModule unrecognizable after upgradeConfirm module compatibility with target IOS; update module firmware first.
High-Load Packet LossDropouts during peak trafficEnsure proper ventilation; restart switch if overheating persists.

7. Product Series Use Cases: Highlighting Advantages

C9300 series targets "all-scenario access," but their traits define distinct use cases:

  • C9300-48P-E:

    • Small-to-medium offices: 50-80 terminals +30-40 PoE phones.

    • Community centers: 20-30 cameras +10-15 APs (PoE+).

    • School labs: 40 computers +20 non-PoE whiteboards.

  • C9300-48P-A:

    • Large venues: 80-100 4K cameras +20-30 APs.

    • Industrial facilities: 50-60 PLC controllers +30-40 industrial cameras.

    • University lecture halls: 100 IP phones +40 APs per floor.

Conclusion: Choosing Between "General" and "Specialized"

The core divide between C9300-48P-E and C9300-48P-A lies in "general-purpose adaptability" vs "specialized performance." The former is a "versatile tool" for compact, cost-sensitive environments; the latter is a "high-performance solution" for dense, high-demand deployments.

When purchasing, ask: "How many high-power PoE devices do we need now?" and "Will we add more 60W+ terminals in 3 years?" The answer will guide you to the model that best fits your network’s needs—because "fit" often matters more than "specs" in long-term usability.


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