QuantaT3048-LY2 vs. N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Which Switch Dominates Your Network?buzhi

May 23 , 2025 29

1. Product Overview

2. Performance Showdown

• Speed & Scalability:

• QuantaT3048-LY2: 48x 10G + 6x 40G (expandable to 100G via breakout).

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Native 40G/100G support for high-speed spine/leaf architectures.

• Memory & Buffer:

• QuantaT3048-LY2: 256 MB RAM, 16 MB TCAM.

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: 1 GB RAM, 64 MB TCAM (handles complex routing at scale).

• Power Efficiency:

• QuantaT3048-LY2: ~250W (optimized for density).

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: ~500W (demands more power but scales better).

3. Core Features

• QuantaT3048-LY2:

• Cost-Effective: Lower entry price for 10G/40G deployments.

• Flexibility: Supports VXLAN, NVGRE, and OpenFlow.

• Density: Best-in-class port density for compact DC builds.

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8:

• Cisco DNA Center Integration: Automated provisioning and policy enforcement.

• Advanced Analytics: Real-time telemetry for predictive maintenance.

• Security: Built-in TrustSec and MACsec encryption.

4. Design & Durability

• QuantaT3048-LY2:

• Compact 1RU form factor with front-to-back airflow.

• Aluminum chassis for cost-effective thermal management.

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8:

• Sturdy steel chassis with redundant fans and hot-swappable components.

• LED indicators for port status and system health.

5. User Experience

• Management:

• QuantaT3048-LY2: CLI and REST API support (limited GUI).

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Intuitive web GUI, Cisco Prime integration, and NETCONF/YANG.

• Troubleshooting:

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Cisco EEM scripts automate issue resolution.

• QuantaT3048-LY2: Relies on manual log parsing.

6. Pricing & ROI

• QuantaT3048-LY2: ~$8,000–$10,000 (ideal for SMBs/CSPs on tight budgets).

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: ~$25,000–$30,000 (higher upfront cost but lowers TCO in large DCs).

• Value Tip: Choose Quanta if 40G suffices; invest in Cisco for 100G future-proofing.

7. Power Consumption

• QuantaT3048-LY2: 250W typical (optimizes PUE in green data centers).

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: 500W under load (offset by energy-efficient 100G optics).

8. Compatibility Matrix

• QuantaT3048-LY2: Works with Dell EMC, HPE, and Open Compute Project (OCP) gear.

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Native integration with Cisco UCS, ACI, and HyperFlex ecosystems.

9. Software Ecosystem

• QuantaT3048-LY2: Supports Cumulus Linux, SONiC, or proprietary QuantaOS.

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Locked to Cisco NX-OS with tight integration to ACI/SD-WAN.

10. Real-World Use Cases

• QuantaT3048-LY2: Deployed in edge DCs for content delivery networks (CDNs).

• N3K-C3172PQ-Z8: Powers hyperscaler spine layers for AWS Direct Connect.

11. Final Recommendations

• Choose QuantaT3048-LY2 if:

• You prioritize cost control and 40G/100G flexibility.

• Your environment lacks Cisco-specific tooling.

• Opt for N3K-C3172PQ-Z8 if:

• You run mission-critical apps needing advanced analytics and security.

• You’re all-in on Cisco’s ecosystem for lifecycle support.