Item: Cisco Catalyst Switches
Rating: 8
Author: Darian Rawson

Cisco Catalyst Product Series

Catalyst 2960 X/XR Series
Catalyst 2960-L Series

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

Catalyst Switches are used to build the backbone of wired ethernet systems within the core of the business to resources that require direct wired connections for optimal throughput and bandwidth as well as wireless APs and various other smaller switches. A switch may seem like any switch is as good as any other switch but when your infrastructure depends on maximum throughput for distributed rendering, file sharing, or asset collection these accommodate a wide range of applications from day to day to specialized needs in our business.

Pros and Cons

Maintain a high bitrate for sustained data connection.
Mitigate connection disruptions by optimally routing data.
Provide future flexibility and extensibility for businesses to grow and add more hardware switches or equipment.

Better built in cooling.
Cost is a factor.
They are heavy.

Return on Investment

Fast network connectivity is vital.
You can hang onto these forever to optimal ROI.
They are expensive and can be cost prohibitive to smaller businesses.

Cisco Catalyst Customization and Manageability

We have not had to rely on the advanced customization features across all business segments. The nice thing is that for the most part the switches are plug and play. However, issues that pop up when device creep grows exponentially beyond what is on paper to include all manner of devices down the line, those issues can be mitigated by administrators to reduce network overhead and ensure the best environment for all employees.

Alternatives Considered

Linksys Ethernet Switches

Cisco is the gold standard. Build quality. Support. Configurability and dependability are of no question. However that comes with a price tag. It is important not to always just buy the best gold standard for a new business as it is wise to buy just what you need. Cisco switches give you amazing flexibility for future growth so that is worth considering.

Key Insights

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

Likelihood to Recommend

Cisco Catalyst Switches are well suited to any business that needs dependable and fast network access with minimal roadblocks. They do lend themselves to larger businesses or corporations rather than smaller agile companies which would benefit from smaller devices to support their needs. Catalyst Switches are fantastic for large expandability but can quickly create an out of control mess if not handled by system administrators.

Switch it up

Overall Satisfaction with Cisco Catalyst Switches