New Generation of Catalyst Redeems Older Generation
June 25, 2018
New Generation of Catalyst Redeems Older Generation
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Modules Used
- Cisco Catalyst 3850 Series
Overall Satisfaction with Cisco Catalyst Switches
- Catalyst 3650 Series
- Catalyst 3850 Series
- Other
We just migrated our network core from two 6509s to a stack of 3850s. We currently are in the middle of upgrading our 3750s to 3650s in our IDFs and MDF. The 3750/3650s are used as access layer switches. For what it's worth, were using Cisco 5K and 9K in our data center and would comprise our distribution layer, but in reality, we have a collapsed core.
- Cisco Catalyst Switches are extremely reliable. I cannot recall a time when I have had to swap out one, or repair one.
- Cisco Catalyst Switches provide the power and data redundancy required in our research heavy environment that cannot suffer network failures.
- Cisco Catalyst Switches allow for growth, limiting upfront costs.
- It would be nice if configuring a new stack from the ground up was simpler. It's too easy to end up with a split stack situation on accident, and in general, setting up a new stack isn't as fluid as I would like.
- In simple terms, Cisco Catalyst Switches have never failed in this environment, or in previous environments I have been in. This is specific to the 3000 series. The 6500 series is a different story, where everyone knows that you want to avoid a restart of the device at all costs or youll likely end up with failed hardware.
There has been no scenario where we have utilized any automation on the Catalyst platform, and to be honest, I wasnt aware this was even possible, let alone virtualization or analytics.
I am not aware of any degree of customization, outside of network configuration, on Catalyst Switches. Myself and everyone I know uses 3rd party platforms to manage Cisco hardware as in general, Cisco doesnt make very good end-user software, especially when it comes to the UI.