N9K-C9336PQ-40G Nexus Cisco Network Switch
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N9K-C9336C-FX2 Cisco Nexus Network Switch
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N5K-C5596UP-FA Cisco Nexus Network Switch
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In this article, we will delve into the detailed specifications and features of the Cisco Nexus switch . We will look at its salient features, performance indicators, and capacity to handle the rigors of contemporary network environments. Join us as we offer a thorough study and insightful commentary on this cutting edge networking technology.
Cisco Nexus Switches
Cisco Nexus switches are a series of high-performance Cisco network switches designed for data centers, enterprise networks, and cloud environments. Cisco Nexus switches, which are well-known for their scalability, dependability, and sophisticated capabilities, provide strong answers for contemporary network needs. They are designed to manage virtualization, fast data transfer, and intricate network infrastructures.
Key Features of Cisco Nexus Switches
The excellent performance and cutting-edge features of Cisco Nexus switches , which are designed to satisfy the needs of contemporary data centers, cloud environments, and enterprise networks, are well known. Here's a detailed breakdown of their salient characteristics:
1. High Performance
- High Bandwidth: A range of models, including 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, and 100G, are supported by Cisco Nexus switches. These switches can effectively manage present and future network demands thanks to their wide range of bandwidth options, which may support workloads that require a lot of data and high-throughput applications.
- Low Latency: Nexus switches are made to ensure quick packet delivery and processing by minimizing transmission delays. Applications that need real-time data transport, such big database operations, video streaming, and high-frequency trading, depend on this.
2. Advanced Networking Capabilities
- Support for Virtualization: Advanced network virtualization technologies including Virtual Extensible LAN (VXLAN) and Ethernet Virtual Private Network (EVPN) are supported by Cisco Nexus switches. VXLAN is perfect for data centers with plenty of virtual machines because it allows scalable Layer 2 networks to be created over a Layer 3 infrastructure. For increased network segmentation and multi-tenant scenarios, EVPN offers a versatile and effective solution.
- Scalability: Cisco Nexus switches' high port density and flexible architecture allow for easy network expansion and adaptation. They are appropriate for dynamic contexts because they can handle expanding network traffic and new services without necessitating major changes to the infrastructure.
3. Reliability and Redundancy
- High Availability: To guarantee uninterrupted operation, Nexus switches are constructed with redundant cooling fans and power supply in addition to sophisticated failover mechanisms. Reducing downtime and preventing network failures are critical for preserving business continuity. These features aid in this regard.
- Robust administration: The Cisco NX-OS operating system, which powers Nexus switches, has a robust administration interface that includes capabilities for troubleshooting, automated provisioning, and thorough monitoring. Effective network administration is made possible by NX-OS, which also makes complex network configuration easier.
4. Security Features
- Advanced Security Protocols: To safeguard the network from attacks, Cisco Nexus switches provide an extensive feature set of security measures. This includes port security to stop unwanted access, encrypted management protocols (like SSH and HTTPS) to protect administrative access, and access control lists (ACLs) for traffic filtering. These security precautions aid in preserving network integrity and thwarting illegal behavior.
- Network traffic can be divided into distinct segments or tenants by using features like Virtual Routing and Forwarding (VRF), which isolates the traffic. This guarantees that traffic stays kept within predetermined borders, strengthening security and optimizing network administration.
5. Energy Efficiency
- Power-Efficient Design: Cisco Nexus switches are designed to use the least amount of power possible, which lowers operating expenses and promotes green data center efforts. They are a more environmentally friendly option because of features like sophisticated fan controls and power-efficient hardware components, which help to reduce energy usage.
- Environmental Monitoring: A lot of Nexus switches come with sensors and software tools to keep an eye on things like temperature and power use. This enables proactive control of cooling and power resources.
6. Flexible Connectivity Options
- Cisco Nexus switches come in two configuration options: modular and fixed. This flexibility allows the switches to be tailored to specific network needs. While fixed-configuration devices offer small, affordable options, modular switches enable the installation of different line cards and modules, offering scalable solutions.
- Support for many Media Types: Nexus switches offer a range of connectivity options and may accommodate different network infrastructure needs by supporting many media types, such as fiber optic, copper, and direct attach cables.
Because of their many cutting-edge capabilities, Cisco Nexus switches are appropriate for high-performance, scalable, and secure networking systems. Today's data centers and enterprise networks find them to be an excellent option due to their robust security and energy efficiency, capacity to support virtualization, handle high-bandwidth traffic, and guarantee high availability.
Cisco Nexus switches provide the performance and dependability required to support today's demanding network applications, whether they are used for large-scale data center operations or dynamic enterprise environments.
Cisco Nexus Switch Models
Cisco Nexus switches are available in multiple variants, each tailored to meet distinct networking requirements, spanning from edge and aggregation layers to data center core switches. The primary models in the Cisco Nexus series are summarized as follows:
1. Cisco Nexus 3000 Series
Designed for high-performance and low-latency environments, suitable for data centers and high-frequency trading.
- Nexus 3132Q-V: Offers 32 ports of 40G and is suitable for high-bandwidth applications.
- Nexus 3172PQ: Provides 48 ports of 10G and 6 ports of 40G, ideal for network aggregation and high-density environments.
- Nexus 3232C: Features 32 ports of 100G, designed for scalable and high-capacity deployments.
- Nexus 3264C: Offers 64 ports of 100G, suitable for high-density and high-throughput requirements.
2. Cisco Nexus 7000 Series
A modular and highly scalable series designed for data center cores and enterprise networks.
- Nexus 7004: Offers a compact, modular design with up to 96 ports of 10G or 40G, designed for high-density and high-performance environments.
- Nexus 7010: Features up to 320 ports of 10G or 40G with high modularity and scalability, suitable for large-scale data centers and enterprise core deployments.
- Nexus 7018: Provides up to 960 ports of 10G or 40G with extensive scalability and high-performance capabilities.
3. Cisco Nexus 9000 Series
A high-end series designed for large-scale data centers and cloud environments, offering both fixed and modular configurations.
- Nexus 93180YC-EX: Provides 48 ports of 10G and 6 ports of 100G QSFP28, designed for high-density and high-performance requirements.
- Nexus 9336C-FX2: Offers 36 ports of 100G and 6 ports of 400G, suitable for next-generation high-bandwidth data center environments.
- Nexus 9508: A modular switch with up to 384 ports of 10G or 40G, and supports high-capacity and scalable data center deployments.
4.Cisco Nexus 5000 Series
Designed for data centers, this series is known for its flexibility, scalability, and support for virtualization.
- Nexus 5010: Provides 16 or 32 ports of 10G and 4 or 8 ports of 10G or 40G. Suitable for entry-level data center environments.
- Nexus 5548P: Offers 48 ports of 10G and 4 ports of 40G, designed for high-performance and low-latency requirements.
- Nexus 5596UP: Features up to 96 ports of 10G and 6 ports of 40G, providing high-density and high-bandwidth connectivity.
5. Cisco Nexus 2000 Series (Fabric Extenders)
These are used to extend the Nexus 5000 and Nexus 7000 series switches, providing additional ports and simplifying network design.
- Nexus 2232TP-E: Offers 32 ports of 1G or 10G, providing additional connectivity for various environments.
- Nexus 2248TP-E: Features 48 ports of 1G or 10G, designed for adding more endpoints to the existing Nexus switches.
Cisco Nexus switches are designed to meet diverse networking needs, from high-performance data center cores to flexible edge and aggregation layers. Each series and model offers specific features tailored to different aspects of networking, providing scalable and reliable solutions for modern IT environments.
Compare Cisco Nexus switch models
To create a comparative table for Cisco Nexus switches, we can compare key specifications and features across different models. Here’s an example table comparing three Cisco Nexus models:
| Feature | Cisco Nexus 3000 Series | Cisco Nexus 5000 Series | Cisco Nexus 9000 Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Use Case | Low-latency, high-performance networks | Data center aggregation, virtualization | Data center core, cloud environments |
| Port Speeds | 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, 100G | 1G, 10G, 40G | 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, 100G, 400G |
| Max Ports (Per Switch) | 64 x 100G | 96 x 10G, 8 x 40G | 384 x 100G, 6 x 400G |
| Throughput | Up to 6.4 Tbps | Up to 2.56 Tbps | Up to 38.4 Tbps |
| Latency | Ultra-low (<1 µs) | Low | Ultra-low (<1 µs) |
| Virtualization Support | VXLAN, EVPN | FCoE, VXLAN, Virtual PortChannel | VXLAN, EVPN, Segment Routing |
| Form Factor | Fixed | Fixed and modular | Fixed and modular |
| Redundancy | N/A | Power and fan redundancy | Power, fan, and supervisor redundancy |
| Energy Efficiency | Advanced energy management features | Power-efficient design | Energy-efficient with environmental monitoring |
| Security Features | Basic ACLs, MACsec | Advanced security protocols | Comprehensive security suite, MACsec |
| Management Interface | NX-OS CLI, REST API, SNMP | NX-OS CLI, REST API, SNMP | NX-OS CLI, REST API, SNMP, ACI support |
| Typical Deployments | High-frequency trading, web-scale IT | Enterprise data centers | Large-scale data centers, cloud environments |
Usages of Cisco Nexus Switches
Cisco Nexus switches are very adaptable and may be utilized in a variety of settings in cloud environments, enterprise networks, and data centers. These are a few typical uses:
1. Data Center Core Switching
- High Performance and Scalability: At the heart of data centers, Cisco Nexus switches are utilized to manage massive traffic volumes with excellent bandwidth and low latency. Large-scale data centers can benefit greatly from their vast scalability and support for high-speed connectivity.
- Modular Design: With their modular configurations, models such as the Nexus 7000 and Nexus 9000 series provide easy extension and flexibility to increasing network demands.
2. Virtualization of Networks
- Support for EVPN (Ethernet Virtual Private Network) and VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN): Nexus switches are compatible with these cutting-edge virtualization technologies. With the help of these qualities, network virtualization is made efficient and several virtual networks can operate on a single physical infrastructure.
- Multi-Tenant Environments: They are crucial for cloud services and big enterprise networks because they divide up network traffic and provide multi-tenant environments.
3. Applications with High Density and High Bandwidth
- High-Speed Connectivity: Supporting 10G, 40G, and 100G connectivity, models such as the Nexus 3000 and Nexus 9000 series offer high-density port combinations. Because of this, they can be used for applications that need a lot of bandwidth and quick data processing.
- Low Latency Requirements: They are utilized in real-time data analytics and financial trading platforms, among other contexts where low latency is essential.
4. Network Aggregation and Edge Connectivity
- Aggregation Layers: Nexus switches are deployed at aggregation layers to combine multiple access switches and connect them to core switches. This facilitates effective network traffic management and direction.
- Edge Connectivity: They are also utilized to connect servers and end users at the network's edge, offering aggregation and high-speed access.
5. Cloud Environments
- Data Center Interconnect: Cisco Nexus switches make it easier to connect cloud environments and data centers together, allowing for smooth data transfer and network expansion across various locations.
- Hybrid Cloud Solutions: They offer scalable and adaptable networking solutions by fusing cloud services with on-site data centers, hence supporting hybrid cloud architectures.
6. Network Security
- Advanced Security Features: Nexus switches come with advanced security features and protocols like encrypted management, port security, and access control lists (ACLs). They support safe network operations and aid in guarding against unwanted access.
7. Environments for Virtualized Servers
- Support for Virtual Machines: They offer high-performance networking for virtual machines and virtualized applications, as well as connection and control for virtualized server environments.
- Integration with Hypervisors: To maximize network performance and effectively handle virtualized network traffic, Nexus switches integrate with virtualization platforms and hypervisors.
Data center cores, network virtualization, high-density and high-bandwidth applications, network aggregation, cloud environments, and network security are just a few of the scenarios in which Cisco Nexus switches are employed. They are appropriate for complicated IT infrastructures and modern networking requirements due to their performance, flexibility, and advanced capabilities.
What ports do Cisco Nexus switches have?
Cisco Nexus switches offer a variety of port types to accommodate different network needs and connectivity options. The available ports depend on the specific Nexus model, but generally, Cisco Nexus switches may include the following port types:
1. Ethernet Ports
- 1 Gigabit Ethernet (1G): Used for standard network connections, these ports are common in entry-level switches and provide basic connectivity for devices.
- 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10G): These ports are widely used in data centers and enterprise networks for high-speed connections between servers, switches, and storage systems. They can be either copper (RJ-45) or fiber optic (SFP+).
- 25 Gigabit Ethernet (25G): Provides higher bandwidth than 10G ports and is used in modern data centers for server and storage connectivity.
- 40 Gigabit Ethernet (40G): Typically used for uplinks and connections between core and aggregation switches, offering high-bandwidth capabilities.
- 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100G): Found in high-performance switches, these ports support the most demanding data center environments, providing ultra-high-speed connections for core networking.
2. Fiber Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) Ports
- FCoE: These ports allow for the convergence of storage and IP networks by carrying both Fibre Channel and Ethernet traffic on the same network, commonly used in data center environments to simplify cabling and reduce costs.
3. Unified Ports
- Unified Ports: Some Cisco Nexus switches offer unified ports that can be configured to support either Ethernet or Fibre Channel connections. This flexibility allows for dynamic network configuration and efficient use of available ports.
4. QSFP (Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable) Ports
- 40G QSFP+: These ports are used for 40 Gigabit Ethernet connections and support high-density networking environments.
- 100G QSFP28: These ports are for 100 Gigabit Ethernet connections, providing the highest speeds available in current Nexus switches. They are commonly used for uplinks, backbone connections, and data center interconnects.
5. SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) Ports
- SFP: Supports 1G Ethernet over fiber, used in environments where fiber connections are required for longer distances.
- SFP+: Supports 10G Ethernet over fiber, used for high-speed data center connections.
- SFP28: Supports 25G Ethernet, commonly used for high-performance applications in modern data centers.
6. Breakout Ports
- Breakout Ports: Some Nexus switches allow for high-speed ports (like 100G QSFP28) to be split into multiple lower-speed ports (like 4x25G SFP28 or 4x10G SFP+), providing more flexible connectivity options.
7. Management Ports
- Out-of-Band Management Port (OOB): Typically an Ethernet port used for management traffic, separate from data traffic, allowing administrators to manage the switch even if the data network is down.
- Console Port: A serial port used for initial configuration, management, and troubleshooting of the switch via direct console access.
Cisco Nexus switches are equipped with a variety of port types, including Ethernet ports (1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, 100G), FCoE ports, unified ports, QSFP and SFP ports, breakout ports, and management ports. This range of port types provides flexibility and scalability, making Nexus switches suitable for various networking environments and requirements.
What is the difference between Nexus and 9200 network switches?
The Cisco Nexus and Catalyst 9200 series switches are both part of Cisco's portfolio but are designed for different use cases and environments. Here are the key differences between the two:
1. Target Use Cases
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Primarily designed for data center environments.
- Focuses on high-performance, low-latency networking, suitable for large-scale data centers, cloud environments, and high-frequency trading networks.
- Supports advanced features like network virtualization (VXLAN, EVPN), high port density, and ultra-low latency.
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- Targeted at enterprise campus networks, branch offices, and small to medium-sized businesses.
- Designed for general-purpose switching with an emphasis on ease of management, security, and reliability.
- Ideal for access and distribution layers in enterprise networks, providing features like Power over Ethernet (PoE), network segmentation (VLANs), and basic Layer 3 routing.
2. Performance and Scalability
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Offers high port density with speeds ranging from 1G to 400G, depending on the model.
- Designed for high throughput and scalability, supporting large data center deployments.
- Provides advanced programmability and automation features for software-defined networking (SDN).
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- Typically offers port speeds up to 1G and 10G, with some models supporting up to 25G uplinks.
- Focuses on moderate scalability, suitable for enterprise-level access and aggregation layers.
- Offers features like stackable switches and easy deployment with Cisco DNA Center integration for automation and network management.
3. Feature Set
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Advanced data center features such as VXLAN, EVPN, Segment Routing, and support for Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE).
- Focuses on high availability with features like vPC (Virtual Port Channel), FabricPath, and ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure) integration.
- Offers extensive programmability with APIs, Python scripting, and support for network automation tools.
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- Focused on enterprise features such as Enhanced Security (MACsec, TrustSec), QoS, PoE/PoE+, and Layer 3 routing capabilities.
- Includes advanced security and segmentation features, along with support for Cisco SD-Access.
- Designed for ease of use and deployment with features like plug-and-play setups, Smart Licensing, and intuitive management interfaces.
4. Operating System
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Runs on Cisco NX-OS, a modular operating system designed specifically for data centers, offering high availability, secure multi-tenancy, and extensive programmability.
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- Runs on Cisco IOS XE, a versatile operating system designed for enterprise networks, providing security, automation, and analytics features through Cisco DNA.
5. Redundancy and Resiliency
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Designed for data center resiliency with redundant power supplies, hot-swappable components, and high-availability features like ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrade).
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- Provides basic redundancy and resiliency features suitable for enterprise environments, including stackable switches for simplified redundancy and management.
6. Power Over Ethernet (PoE)
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Typically does not focus on PoE, as it is more data center-oriented.
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- Supports PoE and PoE+ on many models, ideal for powering devices like IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras in enterprise environments.
7. Price and Complexity
- Cisco Nexus Series:
- Generally more expensive due to advanced features and higher performance requirements in data centers.
- Requires more specialized knowledge for deployment and management.
- Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series:
- More cost-effective, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use, making it suitable for a wider range of businesses.
- Easier to deploy and manage, especially in enterprise environments.
Cisco Nexus switches are tailored for high-performance data centers, with advanced features suited for large-scale, low-latency environments. In contrast, Cisco Catalyst 9200 switches are designed for enterprise campus networks, offering ease of use, security, and reliability at the access and distribution layers. The choice between the two depends on the specific networking requirements, such as the environment (data center vs. enterprise), performance needs, and budget.
The operating system of Cisco Nexus switches
Cisco Nexus switches operate on Cisco NX-OS, a network operating system designed specifically for the needs of data centers and high-performance networking environments. NX-OS provides advanced features, scalability, and reliability that are crucial for modern data center operations. Key Aspects of Cisco NX-OS:
- Modular Architecture: NX-OS is built with a modular architecture that allows for high availability and flexibility. Each function operates as a separate process, which can be individually started, stopped, or restarted without affecting other processes.
- High Availability: NX-OS supports features like In-Service Software Upgrades (ISSU), Stateful Switchover (SSO), and graceful restart, ensuring minimal downtime during maintenance or upgrades.
- Scalability: Designed to scale from small environments to large data centers, NX-OS supports extensive routing tables, large numbers of VLANs, and a wide range of virtual networking technologies such as VXLAN and EVPN.
- Advanced Virtualization: NX-OS includes support for advanced virtualization technologies like Virtual Device Contexts (VDCs), allowing a single physical switch to be partitioned into multiple logical switches, each with its own configuration and management.
- Programmability and Automation: NX-OS offers APIs, Python scripting, and integration with tools like Ansible, Puppet, and Chef for network automation and programmability. It also supports Cisco’s Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) for simplified management.
- Security: NX-OS includes robust security features such as Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Control Plane Policing (CoPP), and extensive support for encryption protocols, ensuring secure network operations.
- Management: The operating system can be managed via a Command-Line Interface (CLI), SNMP, or REST APIs. Cisco’s Nexus Dashboard and Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) provide additional management and monitoring capabilities.
- Interoperability: NX-OS supports a wide range of networking protocols, including standard IP routing protocols, MPLS, Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE), and more, ensuring compatibility with a broad array of network devices and systems.
Cisco NX-OS is the operating system that powers Cisco Nexus switches, providing the advanced features, high availability, scalability, and security required for data center and enterprise environments. Its modular design, extensive virtualization support, and robust programmability make it ideal for modern, large-scale networks.
How to configure a Cisco Nexus switch
Configuring a Cisco Nexus switch involves several key steps, from initial setup to more advanced configurations. Below is a general guide to get you started:
Initial Setup
- Connect to the Switch
- Console Access: Connect a computer to the switch’s console port using a serial cable and terminal emulation software (e.g., PuTTY, Tera Term).
- IP Access: For remote configuration, connect your computer to one of the switch’s Ethernet ports and configure an IP address on your computer.
2. Power On the Switch
- Connect the switch to a power source and turn it on. Wait for the switch to complete its boot process.
3.Access the CLI
- Open your terminal emulation software and connect to the switch. You should see the CLI prompt once the switch is booted.
Basic Configuration
1.Enter Global Configuration Mode
Switch> enable
Switch# configure terminal
Switch(config)#
2. Set the Hostname
Switch(config)# hostname MyNexusSwitch
MyNexusSwitch(config)#
3.Configure Management IP Address
- Configure an interface for management (e.g., Ethernet1/1):
MyNexusSwitch(config)# interface Ethernet1/1
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# ip address 192.168.1.10/24
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# no shutdown
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# exit
Set Up Default Gateway
MyNexusSwitch(config)# ip default-gateway 192.168.1.1
Configure Hostname and Domain Name
MyNexusSwitch(config)# hostname MyNexusSwitch
MyNexusSwitch(config)# ip domain-name example.com
Configure User Accounts
- Create a local user account:
MyNexusSwitch(config)# username admin password your_password
MyNexusSwitch(config)# enable secret your_enable_password
Advanced Configuration
- Configure VLANs
- Create VLANs:
MyNexusSwitch(config)# vlan 10
MyNexusSwitch(config-vlan)# name VLAN10
MyNexusSwitch(config-vlan)# exit
- Assign VLANs to Interfaces
MyNexusSwitch(config)# interface Ethernet1/2
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# switchport mode access
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# switchport access vlan 10
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# exit
- Configure Trunk Ports
- Set an interface as a trunk port:
MyNexusSwitch(config)# interface Ethernet1/3
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# switchport mode trunk
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20,30
MyNexusSwitch(config-if)# exit
- Configure Routing (Optional)
- Enable a routing protocol (e.g., OSPF):
MyNexusSwitch(config)# router ospf 1
MyNexusSwitch(config-router)# network 192.168.1.0/24 area 0
MyNexusSwitch(config-router)# exit
- Save Configuration
MyNexusSwitch# write memory
Verification and Troubleshooting
- Verify Configuration
- Check VLANs:
MyNexusSwitch# show vlan brief
- Verify Interface Status:
MyNexusSwitch# show interface status
- Check Routing:
MyNexusSwitch# show ip route
- Troubleshoot Issues
- Ping to test connectivity:
MyNexusSwitch# ping 192.168.1.1
- Check log messages:
MyNexusSwitch# show loggingConfiguring a Cisco Nexus switch involves connecting to the switch, entering basic configuration commands, and then setting up more advanced features as needed. Always ensure to save your configuration and verify settings to ensure the switch is operating correctly. For more specific configurations and advanced features, refer to the Cisco NX-OS documentation relevant to your switch model.
