​Ten Key Differences Between Cisco C9300L-24T-4X-A and C9300L-24T-4G-E

Jul 24 , 2025 28

Ten Key Differences Between Cisco C9300L-24T-4X-A and C9300L-24T-4G-E

Cisco Catalyst 9300L series is a staple in enterprise access networks, designed for SMBs, branch offices, and campus edge environments. Among its variants, the C9300L-24T-4X-A (Americas) and C9300L-24T-4G-E (Europe) cater to distinct interface needs, with differences rooted in port speed, regional compliance, and localized optimizations. Below is a detailed comparison across 11 dimensions:

1. Performance: Same Hardware, No Compromises

Both models share the identical Catalyst 9300L hardware platform, delivering consistent core performance:

• Forwarding Rate: Both support line-rate forwarding up to 100Gbps (for 64-byte packets), handling high-traffic scenarios like video conferencing and file transfers for 150+ endpoints.

• RAM: Equipped with 4GB DDR4 memory (expandable to 8GB), ensuring smooth operation of Cisco IOS XE and DNA Center management tools.

• Storage: 4GB eMMC flash for system images, configurations, and logs, with USB support for external storage backups.

• Interface Spec: Both include 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports + 4 optical ports (4X-A: 10G SFP+; 4G-E: 1G SFP).

2. Feature Set: Core Capabilities with Interface-Driven Use Cases

Both support 24 Gigabit ports + 4 optical ports, PoE+ (30W per port, 740W total), and key software features like IPv6 routing, VLANs, QoS, and 802.1X authentication. Differences lie in interface application:

• 4X-A (Americas): Optimized for high-bandwidth uplinks with 10G SFP+ ports (ideal for connecting to core switches); firmware tuned for North American ISP IPoE (DHCP Option 82) deployments.

• 4G-E (Europe): Designed for cost-efficient access with 1G SFP ports (suitable for low-rate devices like IP cameras); firmware optimized for European-frequency wireless APs (e.g., Cisco Aironet 2800i).

3. Design & Appearance: Interface-Specific Details

Both adopt a 1U rack-mount design (44mm height) with front-facing ports, but interface type drives visible differences:

• Optical Port Labels: 4X-A labels 10G SFP+ ports in red; 4G-E labels 1G SFP ports in blue.

• Power Adapters: 4X-A uses a US-style flat-head adapter (100-240V input); 4G-E uses a Euro-style round-head adapter (220-240V input).

4. User Experience: Seamless for Admins, Choice Depends on Needs

For IT admins and end-users, both models offer identical usability:

• Deployment: Quick setup via DNA Center (10 minutes to configure ports, PoE, and VLANs).

• Management: Unified Web GUI/CLI interface—familiar to anyone versed in Cisco tools.

• Troubleshooting: Consistent syslog/SNMP metrics for monitoring CPU, port traffic, and faults.

Only Noticeable Difference: Network planners must match interface speed to uplink requirements (e.g., use 4X-A for 10G core connections).

5. Cost-Effectiveness: Interface Determines Price

Hardware costs vary slightly due to optical port type, but regional factors (taxes, certifications) may adjust final prices:

• 4X-A: Higher hardware cost (10G SFP+ modules are pricier) but often bundled with services in North America.

• 4G-E: Lower hardware cost (1G SFP modules are cheaper) and more affordable in Europe.

6. Use Cases & Series Advantages

The C9300L-24T-4X series excels in “needs-specific” scenarios:

• Enterprise Headquarters: 4X-A’s 10G uplinks eliminate core bottlenecks for video conferencing.

• SMB Offices: 4G-E’s 1G ports reduce deployment costs for low-rate devices.

• Education/Medical: 4G-E’s cost efficiency suits budget-sensitive environments.

Key Advantages:

• Interface Flexibility: Adapt to diverse access needs with 1G/10G options.

• Smart Automation: DNA Center reduces manual configuration by 90%.

• Long-Term Support: 5+ years of software updates (including security patches).

7. System Upgrades: Process, Pitfalls, and Fixes

Cisco IOS XE upgrades for C9300L-24T-4X/A models follow these steps:

Upgrade Steps:

1. Backup Config: Use write memory or DNA Center to save settings.

2. Download Firmware: Get the latest IOS XE image from Cisco.com (match hardware version).

3. Upload Firmware: Transfer via TFTP/SCP or push via DNA Center.

4. Execute:

• CLI: Set boot system flash:/new_image.bin and reload.

• DNA Center: Install via the “Software Center.”

Common Issues & Fixes:

• Problem 1: Upgrade fails (e.g., power loss mid-process).
  Fix: Boot into ROMmon (hold Mode key), load the old firmware with boot system flash:/old_image.bin, then retry.

• Problem 2: Features break post-upgrade (e.g., PoE failure).
  Fix: Check Cisco’s hardware-software compatibility matrix; roll back to a stable version if a bug is confirmed.

• Problem 3: Management interface unreachable.
  Fix: Verify IP settings (default: 192.168.1.1); use Console port (serial cable) to reconfigure.

Conclusion

The C9300L-24T-4X-A and -4G-E are built on the same reliable hardware platform, with differences boiling down to interface speed and regional optimizations. The 4X-A thrives in high-bandwidth scenarios, while the 4G-E excels in cost-sensitive environments. Both are excellent choices for SMBs and branches—simply pick based on your network’s uplink needs.