Cisco Catalyst 9200 - the next generation access layer
Updated November 09, 2020

Cisco Catalyst 9200 - the next generation access layer

Simon Watkins | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User

Overall Satisfaction with Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches

We use them on client sites at the access layer devices, primarily for user PCs, phones and normal peripherals such as wireless access points. As they support POE+ we can power devices such as the latest access points. They are stackable and I like the fact there are two different stack options depending on whether you choose the modular or 9200L versions.
  • Access layer
  • Redundant power
  • Support with the network essential license level
  • Being able to stack different models together
  • Replacement of an old HP network is currently possible with discount levels
  • Enhanced life tom time warranty
These devices are definitely suited and built with the functionality for those companies that are beginning the software-defined journey. Although we are not using Cisco DNA Center currently it certainly makes sense to purchase these devices now so that we are ready to begin this journey. I do think that we are a couple of years away from this at the moment.
We have not implemented Cisco DNA Center yet. However, I am aware of what this functionality will bring. As a 20 year veteran of the network industry I understand that change is inevitable and moving away from the command line configuration is key to the Cisco strategy. I have seen what the Meraki portfolio is capable of in this respect and am fully on board with these changes.
  • Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)
These are two completely different products with the Cisco Identity Services Engine enhancing the Catalyst 9200 with the deploying of profiling and posture of clients connecting to this device. In modern next-generation network facilities such as 802.1x are now being deployed as the de facto standard with compliance driving these initiatives.
These devices are particularly well suited to be deployed at the access layer where we need high density, stackable devices. The backplane is big enough fo this use case and with a 10 GB uplink to the core provides sufficient bandwidth for end-user clients. These devices have enough POE to support a wide range of devices such as the latest access points.