Product Overview, Features | Cisco Systems 3550 guide

C H A P T E R 1

Product Overview

The Catalyst 3550 family of multilayer switches—also referred to as the switches—are stackable Ethernet switches to which you can connect workstations, Cisco IP Phones, and other network devices such as servers, routers, and other switches. These switches also can be deployed as backbone switches, aggregating Gigabit Ethernet traffic from other network devices.

This chapter provides a functional overview of the Catalyst 3550 switch models. These topics are included:

•Features, page 1-1

•Front-Panel Description, page 1-4

•Rear-Panel Description, page 1-10

•Management Options, page 1-11

Features

Figure 1-1and Figure 1-2show the Catalyst 3550 switch models, and Table 1-1describes the switch features.

Figure 1-1 Catalyst 3550-12T and 3550-12G Switch Models
Switch	Description
WS-C3550-12T	10 autosensing 10/100/1000
	Ethernet ports
	2 GBIC1-based Gigabit	Catalyst 3550
	2 GBIC1-based Gigabit
	module slots
WS-C3550-12G	2 autosensing 10/100/1000
	Ethernet ports
	10 GBIC-based Gigabit	Catalyst 3550
	10 GBIC-based Gigabit
	module slots	81594
		81594

1. GBIC = Gigabit Interface Converter

Catalyst 3550 Switch Hardware Installation Guide

	OL-6155-01	1-1

3550 specifications

Cisco Systems 3550 is a series of enterprise-class multilayer switches that have gained popularity in both enterprise and service provider networks. Introduced in the early 2000s, the 3550 series was designed to meet the increasing demand for advanced networking capabilities, including Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, making it suitable for various network environments.

A standout feature of the Cisco 3550 is its support for advanced Layer 3 switching capabilities. This means it can perform routing functions similar to traditional routers while maintaining the speed and efficiency of a switch. The 3550 facilitates IP routing, enabling enhanced communication among different subnets without the need for additional routing devices.

The Cisco 3550 series is equipped with a range of ports, typically providing up to 48 Ethernet 10/100 ports and optional Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring scalability and flexibility in various network designs. The switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing the delivery of electrical power through Ethernet cables to connected devices, such as IP phones and wireless access points, streamlining installations and reducing cable management complexity.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another essential feature of the Cisco 3550. The switch supports advanced QoS mechanisms, which provide the ability to prioritize traffic. This is crucial in environments where bandwidth is limited, as it ensures that time-sensitive applications, like VoIP and video conferencing, receive sufficient bandwidth to function optimally.

In terms of security, the Cisco 3550 includes features such as access control lists (ACLs), port security, and VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks). These features help in segmenting network traffic and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information, thereby enhancing network security.

The Cisco 3550 is highly regarded for its robustness and reliability, making it a suitable choice for various organizations looking to maintain high availability in their networking environments. Its management capabilities include support for Cisco's IOS software, which offers a command-line interface for configuration, as well as options for SNMP and web-based management tools.

Overall, the Cisco Systems 3550 series is well-regarded for its multilayer switching capabilities, comprehensive feature set, and versatility in meeting the diverse needs of modern networking, making it a favored solution for businesses aiming to build efficient and secure network infrastructures.