WS-C2960C-12PC-L vs. WS-C2960S-24PD-L: A Practical Comparison for Modern Network Builds

May 23 , 2025 7

WS-C2960C-12PC-L vs. WS-C2960S-24PD-L: A Practical Comparison for Modern Network Builds

1. Key Specifications at a Glance

2. Performance Breakdown

• Processing Speed: Both models deliver 6.5 Mpps, suitable for small to medium workloads.

• RAM & Storage:

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: 512 MB RAM, 2 GB Flash.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: 512 MB RAM, 2 GB Flash (same as predecessor).

• Power Efficiency:

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: ~30W (non-PoE).

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: ~130W (PoE+ enabled).

3. Core Functionalities

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L:

• Advanced stacking for unified management across multiple switches.

• IPv6 routing and static routing support.

• Compact design for space-constrained data centers.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L:

• PoE+ support for powering IoT devices, wireless access points, and VoIP systems.

• Enhanced security with Cisco TrustSec and Flexible NetFlow.

• Simplified deployment via USB configuration backup.

4. Design & Port Layout

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L:

• 1RU form factor with front-facing ports for easy cable management.

• Redundant power supply support for mission-critical environments.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L:

• Rear-facing SFP slots for fiber connectivity and front-facing GE ports.

• Dedicated PoE+ ports grouped together for streamlined device connections.

5. User Experience

• Management: Both offer intuitive CLI and web-based interfaces. The WS-C2960S-24PD-L adds PoE+ monitoring tools.

• Troubleshooting: Cisco’s Embedded Event Manager (EEM) aids proactive issue detection on both models.

6. Pricing & ROI

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: ~$1,300–$1,600 (street price).

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: ~$1,100–$1,400.

• Value Proposition: The WS-C2960S-24PD-L wins for cost-sensitive deployments needing PoE+, while the WS-C2960C-12PC-L excels in scalability.

7. Power Consumption

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: Low power draw ideal for energy-efficient data centers.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: Higher power usage due to PoE+ (not ideal for battery-backed deployments).

8. Compatibility & Expansion

• Interoperability: Works with Cisco ISR routers, ASA firewalls, and third-party servers.

• Expansion:

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: Expand via stacking or SFP+ modules.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: Limited by fixed port count but supports fiber uplinks via SFP.

9. Software Ecosystem

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: Runs Cisco IOS Software with lifetime updates.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: Includes Cisco IOS XE for advanced features like SDN readiness.

10. Real-World Use Cases

• WS-C2960C-12PC-L: Deployed in healthcare facilities for server room connectivity.

• WS-C2960S-24PD-L: Common in retail stores powering PoE-enabled surveillance systems.

11. Final Recommendations

• Choose the WS-C2960C-12PC-L if:

• You prioritize scalability and stacking for future growth.

• Your environment lacks PoE requirements.

• Opt for the WS-C2960S-24PD-L if:

• You need PoE+ for devices like VoIP phones or wireless APs.

• You prefer a cost-effective, plug-and-play solution.