​Ten Key Differences Between Cisco C9300L-48T-4G-E and C9300L-48T-4X-A

Jul 24 , 2025 9

Ten Key Differences Between Cisco C9300L-48T-4G-E and C9300L-48T-4X-A

Cisco Catalyst 9300L series is a go-to for enterprise access networks, designed for SMBs, branch offices, and campus edge environments. Among its variants, the C9300L-48T-4G-E and C9300L-48T-4X-A are tailored for distinct use cases, with differences rooted in interface types, regional compliance, and performance focus. Below is a detailed comparison across 11 dimensions:

1. Performance: Same Hardware, Different Interface "Flavors"

Both models share the same 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.

• 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.

Key Difference: The 4G-E features 4 Gigabit SFP ports (1G rate), while the 4X-A includes 4 Ten-Gigabit SFP+ ports (10G rate).

2. Feature Set: Core Capabilities with Interface-Driven Specialization

Both support 48 Gigabit Ethernet 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 compatibility:

• 4G-E: Optimized for low-to-medium bandwidth connections (e.g., IP cameras, legacy APs) or short-range fiber links (1G SFP modules are cost-effective and widely compatible).

• 4X-A: Built for high-bandwidth scenarios (e.g., connecting to core switches, firewalls, or 8K video streams) with 10G SFP+ ports that eliminate uplink bottlenecks.

3. Design & Appearance: Subtle Differences in Port Layout

Both adopt a 1U rack-mount design (44mm height) with front-facing ports, but port organization varies by interface type:

• 4G-E: Smaller SFP ports (1G) are often grouped separately from electrical ports, with a compact layout ideal for space-constrained server rooms.

• 4X-A: Larger SFP+ ports (10G) are clearly labeled (e.g., “10G SFP+”) and may include additional cooling vents to handle slightly higher module heat output.

4. User Experience: Seamless for Admins, Planning Matters

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 types to link requirements (e.g., use 4X-A if core switches have 10G ports).

5. Cost-Effectiveness: Same Hardware, Different Value Propositions

Hardware costs are nearly identical, but regional factors (taxes, certifications) may cause minor price gaps:

• 4G-E: More affordable in Europe, targeting SMBs with stable gigabit networks (e.g., small offices, retail chains).

• 4X-A: Priced slightly higher in North America, but ideal for enterprises planning long-term expansion (avoids future upgrades when core networks migrate to 10G).

6. Use Cases & Series Advantages

The C9300L-48T-4G/E series shines in “flexible” scenarios:

• Branch Offices: 48 Gigabit ports + 4 optical uplinks support 100-200 users, with PoE+ powering IP phones, APs, and cameras.

• Campus Access Layers: Stack up to 8 units for 384 Gigabit + 32 optical ports, simplifying multi-site management via DNA Center.

• Data Center Edge: 10G SFP+ ports (4X-A) directly connect to core switches, avoiding performance bottlenecks for storage or virtualization traffic.

Key Advantages:

• Interface Flexibility: Mix of electrical and optical ports adapts to diverse network edge needs.

• 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-48T-4G/E 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-48T-4G-E and -4X-A are built on the same reliable hardware platform, with differences boiling down to interface types and regional optimizations. The 4G-E excels in cost-sensitive gigabit environments, while the 4X-A is built for high-bandwidth growth. Both are excellent choices for SMBs and branches—simply pick based on your current and future network needs.