C9200 NM 4X: Ordering Guide

Introduction

When it comes to optimizing your network infrastructure, choosing the perfect network ally is crucial. Cisco is a game changer in the world of networking; with its diverse product offerings, you may reach new heights in the networking world. One of the main players and most highly purchased products of Cisco is the Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches, which are well-known for their reliability and performance. A key accessory for these switches is the C9200 NM 4X network module, which boosts their capabilities. This guide dives deep into what the C9200-NM-4X offers, its features, benefits, pricing, and where you can buy it. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, understanding this module will help you make informed decisions to enhance your network. We’ll also compare it with similar modules to give you a clear picture of its value. By the end of this guide, you’ll know everything you need to make the best choice for your network’s needs.

What are Cisco Catalyst 9200 series switches?

Before diving into the specifications of the c9200 nm 4x, it's important to understand how the Cisco Catalyst 9200 series switches can enhance your network capabilities and boost performance and scalability. The c9200 series switches are reliable, high-performance network switches designed to deliver secure and efficient connectivity for modern enterprises. These switches are part of Cisco's fixed-access switching portfolio, providing essential network features at affordable prices. They are built with simplicity in mind, offering easy deployment, management, and troubleshooting. With advanced security features, they help protect your network against threats. Furthermore, the Cisco Catalyst 9200 series switches are suitable for a wide range of environments, from small to medium-sized businesses to large enterprise networks. They ensure high availability and consistent performance, which makes them a solid foundation for your network infrastructure.

Understanding the C9200 NM 4X

The C9200 NM 4X is a network expansion module designed specifically for Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches. It provides four 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing you to enhance the capacity and performance of your existing network. This module is ideal for businesses that need higher data transfer speeds and increased network flexibility. It's a hot-swappable module, meaning you can install or replace it without shutting down the entire network, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations. Its compact design seamlessly integrates with the Cisco 9200 Series switches, making it a practical addition for those looking to upgrade their network infrastructure. Whether you're dealing with high-volume data transfers or need to support more devices, the C9200 NM 4X offers the speed and reliability required to keep your network running smoothly and efficiently.

Key Features of Cisco C9200-NM-4X

Table 1 highlights the key features that make the C9200 NM 4X a valuable addition to Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches, emphasizing its performance, compatibility, and ease of use.

Benefits of Cisco C9200-NM-4X

The Cisco C9200 NM 4X module provides numerous advantages that define modern networking standards, including:

• Improved performance: The C9200-NM-4X has 10-Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, allowing for high-speed data transfers while lowering latency and enhancing overall network efficiency.
• Scalability: The C9200-NM-4X's modular design provides for simple expansion and scalability, allowing enterprises to respond to changing network demands without requiring major infrastructure overhauls.
• Security features: Cisco's integrated security features, such as TrustSec and MACsec encryption, protect data confidentiality and integrity from cyber threats and unauthorized access.
• Flexibility: The C9200 NM 4X supports a variety of SFP and SFP+ transceivers, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of networking requirements and situations.

Technical Specifications

Table 2 lists the technical specifications that make the C9200 NM 4X a valuable addition to Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches, emphasizing its ports, dimensions, and environmental specifications.

Options to Consider Before Ordering

Before you place an order, please review the following:

• The Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series offer consists of three key components: switch hardware, a Network Stack perpetual license, and a choice between a Cisco Catalyst software subscription license or a Cisco DNA subscription license.
• Software subscription licenses and Network Stack perpetual licenses use smart license product IDs (SKUs). A subscription license, which includes a perpetual license, is required with any hardware purchase.
• Purchases require a Smart Account (see the Smart Accounts section for details).

Service Options:

• Solution support.
• Enhanced Limited Lifetime Warranty (E-LLW)
• Smart Net Total Care support (SNTC)
• Success Tracks (Cisco CX)
• Provided basic product support (Cisco Catalyst software subscription).

Common terminology

• Network stack: NW.
• Cisco Digital Network Architecture (DNA) Cisco Catalyst Software Subscription: DNX
• Essential: -E.
• Advantage: -A.
• Smart Account (SA)
• Smart License (SL)

Default accessories included with the switch

Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches include the following components and accessories as default:

• Switch.
• Default power supply (depending on selected switch)
• Power cable
• Standard 19-inch mounting brackets. (Other alternate mounting brackets are available for request as spares.])

Comparing C9200 NM 4X with Other Network Modules

The C9200 NM 4X is designed for higher performance needs with 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports, making it suitable for more demanding network environments. In contrast, the C9200 NM 4G, with its 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports, is a cost-effective solution for standard networking needs where high-speed performance is not as critical.

Table 3 compares specification features between c9200 nm 4x and c9200 nm 4g below:

Table 4 lists specifications between the C9200 NM 4X vs C9200 NM 8X switches:

Licensing

All Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switch hardware comes with two software options. Each software option has two components, as illustrated in Table 4.

Installation and Setup

Preparing for Installation

Before starting the installation of the C9200 NM 4X module, ensure your switch is turned off to prevent any electrical damage. Gather all necessary tools, such as a screwdriver and any required mounting hardware. Make sure you have a clean, static-free workspace to avoid any static discharge that could harm the components.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

• Power Off the Switch: Ensure the switch is completely powered down. Disconnect the power cable to ensure there's no electricity running through the device.
• Remove the Existing Blank Panel: Locate the slot where the new module will be installed. If there is a blank panel covering this slot, use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding it in place and carefully take off the panel.
• Insert the C9200 NM 4X Module: Align the C9200 NM 4X module with the slot. The module should fit snugly into the slot’s guides. Gently slide the module into the slot until you hear or feel it click into place, indicating that it is securely connected.
• Secure the Module: Once the module is in place, use the screws from the blank panel or the ones provided with the module to secure it. Tighten the screws to ensure the module is firmly held and won't move.
• Power on the Switch: Reconnect the power cable and turn the switch back on. After letting the switch boot up, make sure the system recognizes the new module. Check the switch’s management interface to ensure the module is functioning correctly.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that your C9200 NM 4X module is installed correctly, providing your network with enhanced performance and additional ports for expanded connectivity.

How To Order A Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switch

Network Stack licenses and subscription licenses for Cisco Catalyst or DNA Software are required at the time of purchase and are divided into two licensing tiers: Essentials (-E) and Advantage (-A). The Cisco Catalyst or Cisco DNA Software subscription term license must be selected during the order process; however, the Network Stack license, Network Essentials, or Advantage are included with the hardware.

To order using the Cisco Commerce Workspace, follow these steps:

• Select the appropriate Catalyst 9200 Series switch SKU for either the Advantage (-A) or Essentials (-E) licensing tiers. Click "Edit Options" to configure hardware and accessories, as well as the kind and duration of the software subscription.
• Choose between Cisco Catalyst and Cisco DNA software subscription choices. To select a Cisco Catalyst Software subscription, first deselect the default Cisco DNA subscription using "Clear Section”.
• Select a subscription period (3, 5, or 7 years).
• Include extra components and options (e.g., power cables, network modules, a backup power source).

How to Buy the C9200 NM 4X

Purchasing the C9200 NM 4X network module is a straightforward process that ensures you get the right product for your network needs.

Research and Compare

Start by researching different vendors and comparing prices, features, and customer reviews. Look for authorized Cisco resellers to ensure authenticity and quality.

Verify Compatibility

Check the compatibility of the module with your existing Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches. Ensure it meets your network requirements and supports the desired features.

Place Your Order

Once you've found the right supplier, follow their purchasing process. This may involve placing an order online or contacting a sales representative.

Confirm Warranty and Support

Before finalizing your purchase, confirm the warranty terms and available support options. Ensure you understand how to access support services if needed.

Finalize Your Purchase

After reviewing all the details and confirming your choice, proceed with the purchase. Double-check your order to ensure accuracy and complete the transaction securely.

Software

Cisco IOS XE

Cisco IOS XE Software automates network configuration, operation, and monitoring. Cisco's automation solution is open, standards-compliant, and scalable throughout the network device's lifecycle. The many automation mechanisms are discussed here.

• During initial network deployment, automated device provisioning automatically upgrades software images and installs configuration files on Cisco Catalyst switches. Cisco provides turnkey solutions like Plug and Play and Preboot Execution Environment (PXE) for simple, automated deployment.
• Modern network switches, such as the Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series, support API-driven configuration. It provides a number of automation functions as well as open APIs via NETCONF and RESTCONF, both of which use YANG data models. This enables external systems, both off-the-shelf and customized, to automatically provision network resources.
• Granular visibility enables model-driven telemetry to route data from a switch to a destination. To identify data streams, subscribe to a data set in a YANG model. The subscription data is transmitted to the destination at predefined intervals. Also, Cisco IOS XE supports the push model. It offers near-real-time network monitoring, enabling the early detection and resolution of problems. Meraki Cloucloudimonitoringalso available.
• Smooth software upgrades and patching increase OS resilience. Cisco IOS XE on Catalyst 9200 Series switches allows for cold patching with reboots to resolve serious flaws and security vulnerabilities in between maintenance releases. This feature enables you to apply changes without waiting for the next maintenance release. Cold patching requires that the switch be restarted for the changes to take effect.
• Cisco Trust Anchor Technologies ensures a safe basis for their products. Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series switches provide hardware and software authenticity assurance, promoting supply chain confidence and mitigating man-in-the-middle attacks on software and firmware. Trust Anchor capabilities include image signing, Secure Boot, and the Cisco Trust Anchor module.

Cloud Security

Umbrella Integration: Managed service providers can now host the Cisco Umbrella agent directly on Catalyst 9200 series switches. Businesses may easily configure DNS filtering policies to protect BYOD, IoT, and corporate users from accessing harmful or unsuitable websites without relying on MSPs to enforce them. This allows trusted apps to contact the cloud directly, optimizing bandwidth utilization. Each device requires a DNA Advantage license and an umbrella license.

Full Flexible NetFlow (FNF)

Cisco IOS FNF is the next-generation flow visibility technology. It optimizes network architecture, lowers operating costs, enhances capacity planning, a