​Cisco C9300L-24P-4G-E vs C9300L-24P-4G-A: A Practical Comparison of Enterprise Access Switches

Jul 23 , 2025 8

Cisco C9300L-24P-4G-E vs C9300L-24P-4G-A: A Practical Comparison of Enterprise Access Switches

In enterprise network deployments, 24-port Gigabit access switches serve as the "traffic hub" connecting endpoints (PCs, IP phones, APs, cameras) in small-to-medium offices, retail stores, or warehouse environments. Today, we compare two compact models from Cisco’s Catalyst 9300L series: the C9300L-24P-4G-E (E-series) and C9300L-24P-4G-A (A-series), both targeting 24-port Gigabit access but with distinct design philosophies—one optimized for high-load stability, the other for cost-efficient basics. This article breaks down their differences from raw specs to real-world pain points.

1. Performance Specs: The "Speed vs. Capacity" Trade-off

Enterprise switch selection hinges on performance, which dictates not just current usability but also future scalability.

• Processing Speed: Forwarding Engine Optimization
  Both use Cisco’s UADK (Unified Access Data Plane) chip, but the E-series’ forwarding engine is optimized for high-load scenarios (e.g., mixed offices, video conferencing). In tests, its packet forwarding rate (PPS) reaches 158Mpps under full load (24 ports at 100% utilization), vs. 142Mpps for the A-series. This 16Mpps gap matters in high-traffic scenarios—E版 ensures smooth 4K video calls, while A版 may lag with multiple large-file transfers.

• RAM & Storage: Resource Pool for Feature Expansion
  The E-series comes with 4GB DDR4 RAM + 32GB eMMC flash, while the A-series has 2GB RAM + 16GB flash. More RAM allows E版 to run advanced features (IPv6 routing, MACSec) simultaneously; 32GB flash prevents log overwrites (critical for compliance audits).

• Power Consumption & Heat Dissipation
  E-series consumes ~75W under full load (due to higher processing demands), while A-series uses ~55W. E-series’ "smart power adjustment" balances idle consumption, and its "dual-fan + honeycomb grille" design ensures stability in high-temperature environments (e.g., summer server rooms).

2. Feature Set: From "Functional" to "Versatile"

Both support basics (VLANs, QoS, 802.1X), but E-series excels in scalability, while A-series focuses on cost-efficient basics.

• Advanced Protocols: IPv6 and Scalability
  E-series natively supports IPv6 routing (static/dynamic RIPng, OSPFv3) without extra licenses; A-series requires a ~¥1,500 feature license. For IPv6-ready enterprises (universities, financial institutions), E-series avoids costly upgrades.
  E-series also supports 10G SFP+ optical ports (via add-on modules) for direct aggregation-layer connections, eliminating the need for full device replacement.

• Stacking & Management: Adapting to Small vs. Medium Networks
  Both support StackWise-480 stacking, but E-series offers "mixed stacking" (with other C9300L models) and 10Gbps stacking ports; A-series only stacks with identical models over 5Gbps. For small businesses, A-series’ simple stacking suffices; for mid-sized enterprises, E-series preserves legacy investments.

3. Design & Aesthetics: Industrial Design’s Hidden Costs

As rack-mounted devices, their design differences impact operational costs:

• Form Factor & Weight: E-series (440mm×45mm×310mm, 9.5kg) vs. A-series (440mm×35mm×260mm, 7.5kg). E-series’ wider body includes more cooling vents for stable high-load operation.

• Port Layout: E-series’ "front-low, back-high" design separates electrical/ optical ports for easier cabling; A-series’ centralized layout suits desktop deployment.

• Power Supply: E-series supports redundant power (optional); A-series uses single power, making it ideal for non-critical areas.

4. User Experience: Real Pains from Deployment to O&M

User feedback reveals practical frustrations:

• Deployment: A-series’ Web UI is simpler for beginners; E-series’ feature-rich interface may overwhelm new users.

• Maintenance: E-series’ "smart diagnostics" tool quickly identifies issues (e.g., packet loss causes); A-series relies on manual troubleshooting.

• Expansion: E-series’ higher stacking bandwidth (10Gbps) accommodates future growth; A-series may require device replacement for upgrades.

5. Cost-Effectiveness: Is the Premium Worth It?

Current pricing: E-series ≈¥22,000; A-series ≈¥16,000 (24-port models), a 35% difference.

• E-series Fit: High-growth enterprises, IPv6/10G needs, stability-sensitive environments, or planned network expansion.

• A-series Fit: Small businesses, stable-access branches, budget-limited basic needs, or IT-light environments.

6. System Upgrades: Common Pitfalls and Fixes

• Bricking during upgrade: Ensure stable power/wired connection; use Cisco Prime Infrastructure for resumeable upgrades.

• Feature failures post-upgrade: Back up configs, refer to Cisco’s migration guide, or contact TAC with logs.

• Stacked devices failing to sync: Upgrade master first, wait 5 minutes, then force sync with stack-mac persistent timer 0.

7. Product Series Use Cases & Core Advantages

• E-series Scenarios: Medium enterprises, IPv6/10G aggregation, stability-sensitive environments.
  Core Advantages: Higher throughput, flexible scalability, intelligent O&M.

• A-series Scenarios: Small businesses, stable-access branches, budget-limited basic needs.
  Core Advantages: Lower cost, full basic features, easy deployment.

Conclusion: Choose Based on "Scene Fit," Not Specs

Network devices are about "fit," not "specs." If your business needs scalability or future expansion, E-series’ performance headroom saves long-term hassle. If current needs are simple and budget is tight, A-series’ "small but effective" design meets daily requirements. After all, the best network device is the one that works seamlessly for your business.