The 9200 series is an essential member of Cisco’s 9000 series of business-grade intent-based networking switches. Whereas the 9300 series focuses more on scalability while providing a feature-packed box, the 9200 takes a more simplistic approach to networking solutions. The still powerful 9200 are specially designed for simpler branch operations and compact-sized businesses. They are perfect for companies who require the latest and powerful technology without going too overboard with the complexities of on-paper specs. The 9200 series of switches feature StackWise – 160/80 stacking architecture which allows it to have an always-on experience. Let’s take a look at what the architecture has to offer in terms of user-performance and simplifying solutions. Maximise Performance The unique structure of StackWise 160/80 allows for maximum performance and more straightforward stacking solutions. It allows the stacking of up to eight modules in a ring topology. It expands the form-factor, boosts up the bandwidth density, reduces redundancy, all while providing a single management point. The architecture is specifically designed to work with the Cisco IOS XE to provide maximum capabilities to every device on the stack. The 9000 series supports the StackWise 160 while the 9200L devices provide the alternative of StackWise 80 for specific business needs. Components and add-ons. The 9200 series require data cables which have to be ordered separately. Due to the high-gap in structures, the cables are not backward compatible with the old 2960-X series.
C9200-STACK-KIT
C9200L-STACK-KIT
STACK-T4-50CM
50CM Type 3 Stacking Cable
STACK-T4-1M
1M Type 3 Stacking Cable
STACK-T4-3M
The devices feature separate stack ports and stack connectors which are used to tightly and securely attach the devices.
Simplified Stacking Cisco’s brand-new Integrated Circuit – the UADP ASIC – and their dual ports technology allows a maximum of 160 Gbps throughput on the 9200 devices while 80 on the 9200L. The system takes the final form of six unidirectional data transmission rings for efficient data transfer. The Cisco Stack discovery protocol then boots up and searches for all the devices on the stack. Once all devices are found - or half is found where it waits for two minutes – the discovery exits and active election can then occur. The series use complex algorithms and highly optimised procedures into determining the priority of switches and the active/standby state. Needless to say, the procedures all take place automatically and at a quick pace requiring minimal user input and providing the most efficient results. When adding or removing switches, the overall network is not disrupted; it continues to work at half the bandwidth until the procedure is completed. The smart licensing has been made mandatory, and the following command can be used to verify the license.
9200-STACK#sh license usage
Is it worth it? The 9200 series provide a simpler than ever stacking architecture and is great for companies looking for compact stack switching with high capabilities and trusted brand name. The Cisco 9200 series, with its powerful hardware and Cisco’s efficient software-driven environment, manages to pack a robust system in a simple and effective package.