Cisco C6800-48P-TX: Assessing Its Place in Modern Network Upgrades ​

Jun 10 , 2025 17

Title: Cisco C6800-48P-TX: Assessing Its Place in Modern Network Upgrades

Choosing the right network switch involves careful consideration of current needs and future growth. The Cisco Catalyst 6800 Series, particularly the C6800-48P-TX model, was once a mainstay in demanding environments. But how does it stack up today for businesses considering upgrades or replacements? Let's examine its key attributes compared to newer alternatives.

1. Performance & Core Specs 

• C6800-48P-TX: Offers 48 Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) RJ-45 ports. Performance is tied to the installed Supervisor Engine (Sup). Sup2T engines provide higher forwarding rates (up to 720 Mpps) and throughput. Memory (DRAM) and storage (Flash) depend entirely on the Sup engine used. Its architecture delivers robust Layer 2/3 switching but lacks the raw speed and density of modern platforms. 

• Comparison Point: Newer platforms like the Catalyst 9300/9400 or Nexus 9000 series offer significantly higher port speeds (multi-gigabit, 10G, 25G, 40G, 100G), vastly superior aggregate switching capacity (terabits vs. hundreds of gigabits), and integrated high-density 10G uplinks. They also feature more powerful CPUs and larger, faster memory by default. 

2. Functionality & Features 

• C6800-48P-TX: Provides mature Layer 2/3 features (VLANs, STP variants, OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, PIM, etc.). It supports advanced features like MPLS, VRF-lite, NetFlow, and comprehensive QoS. PoE capability (C6800-48P-TX) is a key strength, supporting legacy PoE (802.3af) and PoE+ (802.3at) for powering devices like phones and older APs. 

• Comparison Point: While feature-rich for its era, it lacks modern capabilities like built-in Application Visibility and Control (AVC), Cisco DNA Center management, advanced telemetry (e.g., streaming telemetry), software-defined access readiness, or native support for higher PoE standards like PoE++ (802.3bt) for newer high-power devices. 

3. Design, Build & User Experience

• C6800-48P-TX: Built with Cisco's renowned enterprise-grade chassis (slot-based). It's a large, heavy, and power-hungry switch designed for core/distribution layers or large access stacks. Installation requires rack space and proper cooling. The modular design allows flexibility (adding line cards, upgrading Sup engines). The CLI is classic Cisco IOS, familiar to network veterans but less intuitive than newer graphical interfaces. 

• Comparison Point: Modern Catalyst switches prioritize stackable, fixed-configuration form factors for access layers, offering denser ports in smaller spaces with significantly better power efficiency per port. They often feature quieter operation and simpler physical management. The user experience is enhanced through intuitive web GUIs and integration with centralized cloud-based management platforms like Cisco DNA Center. 

4. Power Consumption & Efficiency 

• C6800-48P-TX: Known for relatively high power draw, especially when loaded with PoE devices and high-performance Sup engines. Cooling fans can generate noticeable noise. Its energy efficiency is lower compared to modern switches built with newer ASICs and power supplies. 

• Comparison Point: Newer switches leverage advanced silicon (ASICs) and power supply designs (like Digital Electricity) to deliver dramatically lower power consumption per port and much higher PoE efficiency (less wasted power as heat). This translates to significant operational cost savings and reduced cooling requirements. 

5. Price Point 

• C6800-48P-TX: As a mature, often end-of-sale platform, its initial purchase price on the secondary market (like Linknewnet) is typically significantly lower than comparable brand-new modern switches offering similar port counts. However, this is just one factor. 

• Comparison Point: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) must be considered. Higher power consumption, potential lack of software updates/security patches, limited warranty/support options, and the need for ancillary modules (Sup, uplinks) can erode the initial savings. Newer switches offer better efficiency, longer support lifecycles, and potentially lower TCO over 5+ years. 

6. Compatibility & Extensibility 

• C6800-48P-TX: Excellent compatibility with a vast ecosystem of Cisco line cards (for fiber uplinks, additional ports, services like Firewall or WAN modules). Integrates well within existing Catalyst 6500/6800 environments. Runs mature, stable Cisco IOS or IOS XE software. Support lifecycle is likely nearing its end or already ended, limiting access to the latest features and critical security patches. 

• Comparison Point: Modern switches offer native high-speed uplinks (10G/25G/40G/100G) without requiring costly add-on modules. They integrate seamlessly with Cisco's latest software-defined architectures (SD-Access, ACI) and cloud management (DNA Center, Meraki Dashboard). They run current IOS XE versions with ongoing feature development and security updates. 

7. Software Support & Longevity

• C6800-48P-TX: Runs proven Cisco IOS/IOS XE versions. However, active software development and major feature enhancements for this platform ceased years ago. Security updates may also be limited or no longer available, posing a significant risk. 

• Comparison Point: Current Catalyst and Nexus platforms receive regular software updates, including critical security patches, performance improvements, and new features aligned with evolving network demands (automation, analytics, enhanced security). They are positioned for long-term support lifecycles. 

Conclusion: Where Does the C6800-48P-TX Fit? 

The Cisco C6800-48P-TX remains a powerful and reliable workhorse if:

1. You are expanding an existing Catalyst 6500/6800 chassis-based infrastructure.

2. Your requirements are met by its feature set and port density (48x GigE PoE+).

3. Power consumption and noise are not primary concerns.

4. You have a plan for mitigating the risks associated with end-of-support software (limited updates, potential vulnerabilities).

5. The secondary market price offers compelling value against the TCO risks.

For new deployments or significant network refreshes, modern Catalyst access switches (e.g., 9200L, 9300) or aggregation/core switches (9400, 9500, Nexus models) generally offer superior performance, efficiency, management, security, PoE capabilities, and long-term support, making them a more future-proof investment despite a potentially higher initial purchase price. 

Linknewnet Insight: We understand legacy infrastructure needs. While we offer reliable refurbished C6800-48P-TX units and compatible modules for extending existing investments, we also encourage customers to explore modern alternatives for sustainable, secure, and manageable networks. Contact us to discuss your specific scenario and the best path forward.