Cisco Catalyst 3850 48-Port PoE+ Switch WS-C3850-48P-L

What It Is

The Cisco Catalyst WS-C3850-48P-L is a 48-port Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ access switch from the Catalyst 3850 series, running the LAN Base feature set. It is a fixed-configuration, stackable enterprise switch designed for campus and branch network edge deployments, providing Power over Ethernet for endpoint devices.

Technical Details

• Ports: 48 x 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports with PoE+ support
• Power over Ethernet: PoE+ (802.3at) capable, suitable for IP phones, cameras, and wireless access points
• Software Feature Set: LAN Base (L) — includes basic Layer 2 and Layer 3 routing functionality
• Uplinks: 4 x SFP+ 10GE uplink ports (standard on 3850 series)
• Stacking: Cisco StackWise-480 technology, supporting up to 480 Gbps stacking bandwidth
• Switching Capacity: 176 Gbps (hardware forwarding)
• Forwarding Rate: Up to 68.4 Mpps (typical for 48-port models)

Configuration & Options

• Model: WS-C3850-48P-L — part number as specified
• Power Supply: Ships with AC power supply (field-replaceable, redundant option available)
• Fan Module: Includes fixed fan tray for front-to-back airflow
• Licensing: LAN Base software license pre-installed; upgrade path to IP Base or IP Services available via license
• Mounting: Rack-mountable 1RU chassis with included rack-mount kit

Operating Conditions

This switch is intended for deployment in enterprise wiring closets, network distribution points, and branch offices where 48 PoE+ ports are required for IP phones, wireless access points, and IoT devices. It operates in standard indoor environmental conditions (0–45°C ambient temperature) and is suitable for 19-inch rack mounting in server rooms or communication cabinets. The LAN Base feature set covers typical access-layer requirements, making it appropriate for static routing and VLAN-based segmentation.