When the warranty on your Cisco DS-X9706-FAB3 fabric module expires, do you simply hope for the best? Or do you take proactive steps to ensure your network stays operational without costly downtime?
Unlike consumer electronics, enterprise hardware like the DS-X9706-FAB3 powers mission-critical SAN (Storage Area Network) environments. A sudden failure could mean hours of downtime, data loss, or even compliance violations. So, what are your options when the manufacturer’s coverage ends?
Cisco typically offers Service Contract Renewal (SCR) for MDS 9000 series switches, including the DS-X9706-FAB3.
Service Tier | Coverage | Typical Cost (Annual) |
---|---|---|
Basic (8x5 NBD) | Next-business-day replacement | 800–1,200 |
Enhanced (24x7 4h) | 4-hour critical response | 1,500–2,500 |
Premium (Smart Net) | Firmware updates + TAC support | 2,000–3,500 |
Pros:
✔ Direct Cisco support ensures genuine parts and certified technicians.
✔ Firmware updates included in higher tiers.
✔ No compatibility risks—guaranteed to work with your MDS chassis.
Cons:
❌ Expensive—costs can exceed 10-15% of the module’s original price per year.
❌ Limited eligibility—if the product is too old, Cisco may refuse renewal.
If Cisco no longer supports your DS-X9706-FAB3, companies like Curvature, Park Place Technologies, or Service Express offer alternative coverage.
What’s Included?
Hardware replacement (refurbished or equivalent)
Onsite technician dispatch (varies by SLA)
Basic troubleshooting (but no Cisco TAC access)
Pros:
✔ Cheaper than Cisco—often 30-50% less for similar SLAs.
✔ Flexible contracts—monthly or annual terms available.
Cons:
❌ No firmware updates—security patches may be unavailable.
❌ Refurbished parts—may have shorter lifespans than OEM replacements.
If you’re comfortable with in-house IT management, you can:
Buy a spare DS-X9706-FAB3 (used or refurbished).
Monitor hardware health using:
Cisco CLI commands (show module
, show environment
)
SNMP monitoring tools (SolarWinds, PRTG)
Swap modules manually if failure occurs.
Pros:
✔ No recurring costs—pay once for a backup unit.
✔ Full control—no waiting for vendor support.
Cons:
❌ No technical support—you diagnose and fix issues alone.
❌ Compatibility risks—used modules may have hidden defects.
If your DS-X9706-FAB3 is aging out (EoL/EoS), consider:
Cisco MDS 9700 Series (e.g., DS-X97-24K9)
Nexus 9000 SAN switches (if migrating to NVMe-oF)
Pros:
✔ Modern features (32G/64G Fibre Channel, NVMe support).
✔ New warranty included (typically 3-5 years).
Cons:
❌ High upfront cost—new fabric modules start at $15,000+.
❌ Migration complexity—may require reconfiguring zoning and VSANs.
Scenario | Recommended Action |
---|---|
Budget is tight | Third-party maintenance (TPM) |
Need Cisco firmware | Renew warranty (if possible) |
IT team is skilled | Self-maintain + spare unit |
Hardware is obsolete | Upgrade to a newer model |
An expired warranty doesn’t have to mean unplanned downtime. Whether you renew coverage, switch to third-party support, or upgrade, the key is acting before disaster strikes.