Catalyst 9500 Series 12-Port 40Gb QSFP+ Fixed Core Switch
Product Description
The Cisco C9500-12Q-A is a high-performance fixed-core switch in the Catalyst 9500 Series, designed for enterprise campus cores and aggregation layers. Featuring 12× 40Gb QSFP+ ports, this switch delivers ultra-high-speed connectivity for modern data center and campus environments.
Built for scalability and resiliency, the C9500-12Q-A supports advanced Layer 2/Layer 3 routing, segmentation, and automation through Cisco IOS-XE software. Its fixed form factor and high throughput make it ideal for aggregation, uplink, and core applications where low latency, high availability, and advanced QoS are required.
The switch supports redundancy, network programmability, and security features such as MACsec, enabling secure and reliable operations in enterprise networks.
Model Type
Fixed-Core Switch — 12× 40Gb QSFP+ Ports, Layer 3 Enterprise Catalyst 9500
Category
Networking – Fixed Core / Aggregation Switch
Key Features
12× 40Gb QSFP+ Ports — High-speed uplinks for aggregation, core, or data center interconnect.
Cisco IOS-XE Managed — Provides advanced routing, segmentation, automation, and telemetry capabilities.
Layer 3 Routing & Layer 2 Switching — Supports OSPF, BGP, EIGRP, MPLS, VLANs, and VXLAN.
High Availability — Redundant power supplies and field-replaceable fans ensure uninterrupted operation.
Security & Encryption — Supports MACsec for secure Layer 2 traffic.
Enterprise-Grade Performance — Optimized for campus cores, aggregation layers, and high-throughput environments.
Programmable & Automated — Supports SD-Access, Cisco DNA Center integration, and advanced automation tools.
Technical Specs at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Cisco C9500-12Q-A |
| Series | Catalyst 9500 |
| Port Count | 12× 40Gb QSFP+ |
| Port Type | QSFP+ |
| Switching Capacity | 480 Gbps (full duplex) |
| Forwarding Rate | 360 Mpps |
| Redundant Power | Dual AC power supplies |
| Fans | Field-replaceable and redundant |
| OS | Cisco IOS-XE |
| Deployment | Enterprise campus core / aggregation |
Typical Use Cases
Campus Core Switch — Provides high-speed aggregation and routing for enterprise networks.
High-Density Uplink Aggregation — Connects multiple access switches with 40Gb uplinks.
Data Center or Server Aggregation — Suitable for server farm interconnect or spine-leaf topologies.
Secure Enterprise Networks — Supports MACsec encryption and advanced segmentation for sensitive environments.









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