Cisco Catalyst 9000 Series: C9300-NM-4G – 4-Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Module

Product Overview

The Cisco C9300-NM-4G is a high-performance 4-port Gigabit Ethernet network module designed for Catalyst 9300 Series switches. This flexible expansion module provides additional copper and fiber connectivity options, enabling network administrators to customize port density and media types to meet diverse deployment requirements in enterprise access, distribution, and small core environments.

Key Features & Specifications

Hardware & Performance

• Port Configuration:

• 4 x 10/100/1000BASE-T RJ-45 ports (auto-negotiating)

• SFP-based uplink flexibility (when used with SFP modules)

• Non-blocking architecture with full wire-speed forwarding

• Performance Characteristics:

• 4 Gbps aggregate throughput

• <3µs latency per port

• Support for jumbo frames (up to 9216 bytes)

• Power & Environmental:

• 8W typical power consumption

• Operates in 0°C to 40°C environments

• Front-accessible status LEDs

Software & Management

• Full Cisco IOS XE compatibility:

• Unified access with DNA Center

• Support for advanced features (QoS, ACLs, NetFlow)

• MACsec 256-bit encryption capability

• Deployment Flexibility:

• Hot-swappable without switch reboot

• Auto-detection and configuration

• Stacking support across Catalyst 9300 switches

Use Case Applications

✔ Branch office connectivity expansion
✔ Security appliance connectivity
✔ Server/storage access ports
✔ Wireless controller uplinks
✔ Legacy device connectivity

Next-Generation Successor: C9300-NM-4GX (Projected 2024 Release)

Evolutionary Improvements

Strategic Advantages

1. Multi-Gigabit Ready – Supports modern Wi-Fi 6/6E access points

2. Smart Power Management – Dynamic PoE allocation

3. Intent-Based Networking – Automated policy enforcement

4. Enhanced Diagnostics – Cable quality monitoring

5. Sustainable Design – 25% smaller carbon footprint

Migration Considerations

• Backward Compatibility: Works in existing Catalyst 9300 chassis

• Deployment Scenarios:

• Wi-Fi 6/6E infrastructure upgrades

• IoT device connectivity

• High-density office spaces

• Financial Planning:

• 15% cost premium with 3-year ROI through operational efficiencies

Conclusion

The C9300-NM-4G provides reliable Gigabit expansion for Catalyst 9300 switches, while the C9300-NM-4GX delivers:

• Multi-Gigabit connectivity (up to 5Gbps)

• Advanced PoE+ capabilities

• AI-driven network analytics

• Sustainable power efficiency

• Future-ready security

Alternative Title Concepts

1. "From Gigabit to Multi-Gig: The Evolution of Access Switching"

2. "The Smarter Network Edge: Intelligent Port Expansion"

3. "Beyond Connectivity: Powering the Modern Workspace"

4. "The Sustainable Switch: Eco-Conscious Networking"