Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-24XU Layer 3 Switch

The Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series introduces a new era of enterprise-class, stackable Ethernet and Multigigabit access and aggregation switches designed to unify wired and wireless networks on a single, intelligent platform. The WS-C3850-24XU delivers robust Layer 3 routing, advanced security, and scalable performance that market-leading organizations rely on to support converged campus networks. Built to simplify deployment and everyday management, this switch blends proven Cisco reliability with the power of Unified Access Data Plane (UADP) for application-specific network acceleration, making it a cornerstone for networks that demand high availability, flexible uplinks, and seamless user experiences.

• Unified access for wired and wireless convergence — leverage Cisco’s Unified Access Data Plane (UADP) to optimize traffic handling and policy enforcement across both wired and wireless segments from a single platform, simplifying policies and accelerating wireless integration with wired networks.
• Layer 3 routing and advanced traffic control — built for enterprise routing, this switch delivers robust IPv4/IPv6 support, dynamic routing protocols, VRF capabilities, and fine-grained access control to ensure scalable, secure, and efficient data flows across campuses and data centers.
• Flexible port and uplink options — 24 fixed 1G Ethernet ports combined with high-capacity uplinks enable flexible deployment in campus access and distribution layers, with Multigigabit capabilities and high-density uplink options to meet growing bandwidth needs.
• Stackable design for resiliency and scale — form scalable, highly available stacks that grow with your network. The Catalyst 3850 supports stacking for simplified management, increased port density, and automatic forwarding, ensuring continuity even in the event of a switch failure.
• Secure, scalable management and energy efficiency — enterprise-grade security features (802.1X, ACLs, secure management) paired with energy-efficient hardware and Cisco DNA-ready capabilities help you safeguard users and data while reducing operating costs.

Technical Details of Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-24XU Layer 3 Switch

• Model: WS-C3850-24XU
• Series: Catalyst 3850
• Ports: 24 fixed 1G Ethernet (RJ-45) with 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks (typical configuration for the 24XU model, providing high-capacity aggregation and uplink versatility)
• Stacking: Fully stackable with Cisco’s StackWise technology, enabling resilient, single-management-domain networks across multiple switches
• Performance: Designed for enterprise-grade routing and switching with hardware acceleration for UADP workloads, supporting high-throughput data paths and low-latency switching
• Layer 3 features: IPv4/IPv6 routing, static and dynamic routing (including common routing protocols), VRF support, advanced QoS, ACLs, and policy-based routing
• Security: 802.1X port-based access control, guest VLANs, secure management, RADIUS/TACACS+ support, and role-based access controls
• Power and efficiency: PoE/PoE+ capable options on select models within the Catalyst 3850 family, energy-efficient hardware design, and intelligent power management
• Management: Cisco IOS XE-based operating system with familiar CLI, plus simple GUI options and compatibility with Cisco DNA Center for centralized policy and analytics
• Form factor: Fixed-configuration, rack-mountable switch suitable for campus access layers and distribution layers with scalable performance
• Warranty and support: Enterprise-grade hardware warranty options with Cisco support and service offerings to match business needs

how to install Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-24XU

To install the Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-24XU, begin by planning your stack topology and uplink strategy. Confirm power requirements and placement in a well-ventilated, secured data center or equipment rack. Mount the switch in a standard 19-inch rack and connect power cables to a reliable power source or redundant power supply if available. Connect your 24 fixed 1G Ethernet ports to end-user devices, servers, and access points as needed. Attach the 4 x 10G SFP+ uplinks to aggregation switches, distribution switches, or core routers to provide scalable, high-speed paths for inter-VLAN routing, routing protocols, and network services. If you are leveraging PoE/PoE+ capabilities, ensure your power budget aligns with device requirements and plan for potential PoE-powered access points or IP phones. After physical installation, boot the device and access the CLI or GUI to configure basic settings, including management IP, VLANs, and initial routing policies. Enable stack configuration if you are employing multiple Catalyst 3850 switches to create a single management domain. Configure security features such as 802.1X, ACLs, and RADIUS/TACACS+ as part of your initial hardening. Finally, test connectivity across end devices, validate uplink performance, and monitor health using integrated diagnostics or your preferred network management platform.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-24XU best suited for?
A: It is ideal for enterprise campuses requiring a converged wired and wireless network, scalable Layer 3 routing, high-density 1G access ports, and flexible uplink options. Its stackable architecture supports growing networks with simplified management and policy-based automation.

Q: Does the WS-C3850-24XU support PoE+
A: Yes, certain configurations in the Catalyst 3850 family include PoE/PoE+ on the access ports to power IP phones, wireless access points, and other PoE devices, reducing the need for separate power injectors.

Q: What management options are available?
A: The switch runs Cisco IOS XE, offering a familiar command-line interface, robust security and QoS features, and compatibility with Cisco DNA Center for centralized network policy, automation, and analytics.

Q: Can this switch be stacked with other Catalyst 3850 units?
A: Yes. The WS-C3850-24XU is designed for stacking with other Catalyst 3850 switches using StackWise technology, providing a single management domain and improved fault tolerance.