Cisco Nexus 3000 Series N3K-C3172PQ-10GE: A High-Performance Switch for Modern Networks

May 26 , 2025 37

Cisco Nexus 3000 Series N3K-C3172PQ-10GE: A High-Performance Switch for Modern Networks

Product Overview

The Cisco Nexus 3172PQ-10GE is a 10-Gigabit Ethernet switch designed for high-performance data center and enterprise environments. Part of the Nexus 3000 Series, it combines cutting-edge hardware with advanced software features to deliver low latency, high scalability, and energy efficiency. Ideal for spine-leaf architectures, cloud computing, and mission-critical applications, this switch ensures reliable connectivity and future-ready infrastructure.

1. Performance Comparison

Compared to older Cisco switches like the Catalyst 2960 series, the N3K-C3172PQ-10GE stands out with:

• Processing Speed: Line-rate 10-Gbps throughput per port, supporting up to 768 10GE ports for massive bandwidth demands.

• Memory & Storage: 4 GB of DRAM and 16 MB packet buffer memory ensure smooth traffic handling and QoS prioritization.

• Latency: Sub-microsecond latency for real-time applications (e.g., financial trading, IoT).

2. Key Features

• Virtualization Support: Integration with VMware NSX and Cisco ACI for software-defined networking (SDN).

• Energy Efficiency: Intelligent power management reduces electricity consumption by 30% compared to legacy models.

• Security: Built-in ACLs, DDoS protection, and TrustSec for encrypted traffic.

• Management: Unified CLI, REST API, and integration with Cisco DNA Center for centralized control.

3. Design & Aesthetics

• Form Factor: Compact 1RU chassis with 48 front-access 10GE SFP+ ports and 6 QSFP+ uplinks.

• Cooling: Redundant, hot-swappable fans and power supplies for 24/7 reliability.

• Port Density: Optimized layout for high-density deployments without compromising airflow.

4. User Experience

• Ease of Use: Intuitive web-based GUI and CLI templates simplify configuration.

• Troubleshooting: Real-time telemetry and NetFlow analytics pinpoint issues instantly.

• Scalability: Modular design allows seamless expansion with additional modules or line cards.

5. Pricing & Value

• Cost Range: Approximately $15,000–$20,000 USD (varies by region and licensing).

• ROI: Justifies cost through 10-year lifespan, reduced downtime, and energy savings.

6. Battery Consumption

As a network switch, the N3K-C3172PQ-10GE operates on DC power (no battery). It features:

• Power Efficiency: 80 PLUS Platinum certification for optimal energy use.

• Redundancy: Dual power supplies prevent downtime during outages.

7. Compatibility & Expansion

• Hardware Compatibility: Works with Cisco UCS servers, Nexus 9000 Series, and third-party 10GE devices.

• Software Flexibility: Supports NX-OS, OpenFlow, and overlay protocols (VXLAN, NVGRE).

• Future-Proofing: Modular design accommodates emerging technologies like 400GbE upgrades.

8. Software Support

• Lifecycle: Supported by Cisco for 8–10 years post-release, with regular IOS-XE updates.

• Upgrade Path: Smooth transitions to newer models (e.g., Nexus 3500/4000 Series) via vPC or FabricPath.

9. User Scenarios

• Data Centers: Spine-leaf topologies, hyper-converged infrastructure.

• Enterprise Networks: Campus backbone, high-performance computing (HPC).

• Service Providers: Edge routing, Carrier Ethernet.

10. Lifecycle & Replacement

• Typical Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper maintenance.

• End-of-Life (EOL): Announced 3–5 years before discontinuation; proactive upgrades recommended.

• Replacement Signs: Security vulnerabilities, performance bottlenecks, or unsupported features.

11. Summary

The N3K-C3172PQ-10GE is a robust, future-proof switch ideal for organizations prioritizing speed, scalability, and security. While its upfront cost is higher than entry-level models, its long-term reliability and feature set make it a worthwhile investment for demanding environments.