Cisco Catalyst 2960-X Switches: A Net'workhorse'.
August 12, 2022

Cisco Catalyst 2960-X Switches: A Net'workhorse'.

Anonymous | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User

Modules Used

  • Cisco Catalyst 2960 X/XR Series

Overall Satisfaction with Cisco Catalyst Switches

We utilize 2960-X switches throughout our entire campus. They are in every access layer/network closet and serve as the meat of our local area network (LAN). Primarily, these switches have been implemented in a layer two configuration. However, we do have some models that are layer three capable. These have been a rock solid solution for us. Unfortunately, they will be going end-of-sale later this year.

Pros

  • Many flavors available.
  • Support latest PoE and SFP standards.
  • Easy CLI configuration.

Cons

  • Newer Cisco models are modular (power supplies, fans).
  • Limited 10 Gbps interface offerings.
  • Functionally, there is little to complain about.
  • Positive: Cisco Catalyst switches are rock solid; they keep running, even in suboptimal environments.
  • Positive: Uptime/stability is excellent (at least in our experience).
  • Negative: Typically a large initial investment.
I only utilize a fraction of the available features on the 2960-X series switches. In our case, this is mainly geared toward configuration backups and port recovery. Fortunately, these work as expected, and we have had little need for some of the advanced features. They also integrate well with management platforms like Prime Infrastructure and 3rd party offerings from SolarWinds.
Anyone familiar with Cisco switches knows how powerful they can be. Options for configuration and customization are extensive. If you know your way around the CLI, you have a major advantage in dealing with the OSI layers 1-3. If you don't, TAC has always been exceptional in helping resolve issues on the switch side.
Cisco Nexus switches are a different beast entirely. Not taking anything away from the Catalyst line, these are more suited in a core/data center backbone role. Cisco Catalyst 2960-X series switches excel in access layer roles (wired clients, access points, etc.). These two different series of Cisco switches integrate well.

Do you think Cisco Catalyst Switches delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with Cisco Catalyst Switches's feature set?

Yes

Did Cisco Catalyst Switches live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of Cisco Catalyst Switches go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Cisco Catalyst Switches again?

Yes

Cisco DNA Center, SolarWinds Security Event Manager (SEM), SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (npm)
The Cisco Catalyst switch line is rock solid. They are highly configurable, stable, fast, and secure. We primarily use them as access switches, although they could be implemented in any number of fashions. If you're a heavy layer two networks and utilize protocols like spanning-tree, these fit the bill. They are especially well-suited for on-premise/centralized implementations. If you have a geographically distributed network or prefer cloud-based management, Cisco Meraki might be worth a look.

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