WS-C3560CX-12PC-S vs. WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: Which Cisco Switch Meets Your Needs?

May 23 , 2025 18

1. Product Overview

2. Performance Benchmarks

• Throughput: Both support 240 Gbps switching capacity, ideal for aggregation layer deployments.

• Latency:

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: ~1.2μs (optimized for low-latency PoE).

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: ~0.8μs (enhanced ASIC efficiency).

• TCAM Capacity:

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: 16 KB (basic ACLs/routing).

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: 64 KB (advanced policy enforcement).

3. Core Functionalities

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S:

• PoE+ Flexibility: Powers up to 8 devices (e.g., VoIP phones, wireless APs).

• StackPower: Shares power across stacked units for redundancy.

• EnergyWise: Monitors and controls energy usage across the network.

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S:

• MACsec Encryption: Secures data at Layer 2 for sensitive environments.

• Flexible NetFlow: Detailed traffic analytics for troubleshooting.

• Advanced QoS: Prioritizes mission-critical applications.

4. Design & Build Quality

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S:

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

• LED indicators for PoE status and port activity.

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S:

• Ruggedized metal chassis with redundant DC power supply support.

• Hot-swappable fans and modular design for uptime.

5. User Experience

• Management:

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: Web-based GUI (Cisco Configuration Assistant) for quick setups.

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: CLI and Cisco Prime Infrastructure for granular control.

• Troubleshooting:

• Both support SPAN ports and syslog integration.

6. Pricing & ROI

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: ~$3,000–$4,000 (ideal for PoE-heavy environments).

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: ~$4,500–$5,500 (costlier but future-proof for security upgrades).

• Tip: Choose PC-S for immediate PoE savings; TC-S for long-term security investment.

7. Power Efficiency

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: 80 PLUS Bronze certified (efficient for PoE+).

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: Higher power draw but supports StackPower redundancy.

8. Compatibility Matrix

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: Works with Cisco ISR routers, UCS servers, and third-party SANs.

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: Native integration with Cisco WLC controllers for Wi-Fi deployments.

9. Software Ecosystem

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: Runs Cisco IOS (limited SDN capabilities).

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: Supports Cisco NX-OS for advanced automation and orchestration.

10. Real-World Use Cases

• WS-C3560CX-12PC-S: Deployed in a retail store for PoE-powered surveillance and POS systems.

• WC-C3560CX-12TC-S: Secures a financial institution’s branch network with MACsec encryption.

11. Final Recommendations

• Choose WS-C3560CX-12PC-S if:

• You need PoE+ for IP telephony/IP cameras.

• Budget constraints prioritize upfront cost savings.

• Opt for WC-C3560CX-12TC-S if:

• You require advanced security features (MACsec, Flexible NetFlow).

• Scalability and future upgrades are critical.