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

Jul 24 , 2025 6

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

Cisco Catalyst 9300L series is a staple in enterprise access networking, designed for SMBs, branch offices, and campus edge environments. Among its variants, the C9300L-48T-4X-E and C9300L-48T-4X-A are nearly identical in core hardware and software, with differences primarily rooted in regional compliance, power adapter details, and localized features. Below is a detailed comparison across 11 dimensions:

1. Performance: Speed, RAM, and Storage

Both models share the same Catalyst 9300L hardware platform, delivering consistent 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 1,000+ 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.

Verdict: No performance gap—both meet SMB network demands.

2. Feature Set: Core Capabilities with Regional Tweaks

Both support 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports + 4 SFP+ ports, PoE+ (30W per port, 740W total), and key software features like IPv6 routing, VLANs, QoS, and 802.1X authentication. Differences are minor:

• C9300L-48T-4X-E: Optimized for EU EMC compliance, with firmware tuned for European-frequency wireless APs (e.g., Cisco Aironet 2800i).

• C9300L-48T-4X-A: Aligns with FCC Part 15 certification; early batches better support North American ISP IPoE (DHCP Option 82) deployments.

3. Design & Appearance: Subtle Regional Nuances

Both adopt a 1U rack-mount design (44mm height) with front-facing ports and rear power/stacking interfaces. Key differences:

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

• Certification Labels: E displays “CE” marks; A shows “FCC ID.” Some E models label local voltage (e.g., “230V”).

4. User Experience: Seamless for End Users

For IT admins and employees, 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: Power cords vary by region (Euro vs. US plugs), but this doesn’t affect performance.

5. Cost-Effectiveness: Same Hardware, Regional Pricing

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

• E Model: Slightly higher in Europe due to stricter EU environmental standards (RoHS), but often offset by tax incentives.

• A Model: More competitive in North America, with bundled services (e.g., 1-year Cisco Smart Net support) common in dealer offers.

Bottom Line: Same value for money—choose based on regional support needs.

6. Use Cases & Series Advantages

The C9300L-48T-4X series excels in “balanced” scenarios:

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

• Branch Offices: Stack up to 8 units for 384 Gigabit + 32 SFP+ ports, simplifying multi-site management via DNA Center.

• Education/Healthcare: 802.1X authentication secures access; QoS prioritizes video/medical imaging traffic.

Key Advantages:

• Scalability: StackWise technology reduces upfront costs.

• Intelligence: DNA Center automates configuration and monitoring.

• Reliability: Redundant power support (optional) ensures business continuity.

7. System Upgrades: Process, Pitfalls, and Fixes

Cisco IOS XE upgrades for C9300L-48T-4X 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-4X-E and -A are nearly identical in performance and features, with differences limited to regional compliance and minor design tweaks. Both are ideal for SMBs and branches seeking a reliable, scalable access switch—choose based on your location’s certification needs.