N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch

The modern data center thrives on efficiency, speed, and scalability. As organizations increasingly demand higher performance and lower latency, network infrastructure becomes pivotal. Enter the N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch, a powerhouse designed to meet the most demanding networking requirements. Whether you’re running a cloud environment, managing large-scale data, or supporting high-frequency trading, this switch offers unparalleled performance and versatility.

N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch

The N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch is part of Cisco’s Nexus 3000 Series, renowned for its ultra-low latency and high-density Ethernet connectivity. This switch is specifically tailored for data centers and enterprise networks requiring robust performance and scalability. Supporting 10/40 Gigabit Ethernet ports, the N3K-C3172PQ-XL ensures seamless communication between network devices while maintaining exceptional speed and reliability.

With its compact 1RU form factor, this switch is not only space-efficient but also energy-efficient, making it a preferred choice for modern data centers. Cisco has equipped this model with advanced software capabilities to simplify network management and enhance operational efficiency.

 N3K-C3172PQ-XL Key Features

The N3K-C3172PQ-XL boasts a range of features that set it apart:

• High Port Density: Equipped with 48 fixed 10-Gigabit Ethernet SFP+ ports and 6 40-Gigabit Ethernet QSFP+ uplink ports, this switch provides ample connectivity for high-performance networks.
• Ultra-Low Latency: Designed with latency-sensitive applications in mind, this switch offers sub-microsecond latency, ideal for financial and trading environments.
• Advanced Buffering Capabilities: With deep packet buffering, the switch handles data bursts effectively, ensuring smooth traffic flow and minimizing packet loss.
• Flexible Deployment: Support for both layer 2 and layer 3 configurations ensures the N3K-C3172PQ-XL adapts to diverse network architectures.
• Rich Software Features: Integration with Cisco’s NX-OS software delivers advanced features like network programmability, automation, and telemetry for better network management.
• Energy Efficiency: With a low power consumption of approximately 1.4 watts per 10-Gigabit Ethernet port, this switch supports sustainable operations.
• Network Programmability: The switch supports open APIs for integration with third-party tools, enabling greater customization.
• Advanced Security Features: Built-in security mechanisms protect the network from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

N3K-C3172PQ-XL Benefits

The N3K-C3172PQ-XL offers several benefits that enhance overall network performance:

• Optimized Performance: High throughput and low latency ensure consistent performance for demanding applications.
• Scalability: The high port density and modular design allow businesses to scale their networks effortlessly.
• Simplified Management: Advanced automation features reduce the operational overhead associated with manual configurations.
• Enhanced Reliability: With redundant power supplies and fans, the switch ensures continuous operation even during hardware failures.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Its energy-efficient design reduces operational costs, making it a practical choice for long-term use.

Applications

The N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch is designed to excel in various environments, including:

• Data Centers: Supports high-performance workloads, virtualization, and server-to-server traffic.
• Financial Institutions: Ensures ultra-low latency for trading and transaction processing.
• Cloud Deployments: Ideal for large-scale cloud environments needing high-speed connectivity.
• High-Performance Computing (HPC): Handles complex computations and large data sets efficiently.
• Enterprise Networks: Supports bandwidth-intensive applications and provides seamless scalability.

Why Choose the N3K-C3172PQ-XL?

The N3K-C3172PQ-XL is not just another switch; it is a solution tailored for the future. Its ability to deliver ultra-low latency and support high-bandwidth applications makes it indispensable for organizations looking to stay ahead in the digital age. With its robust features, this switch ensures your network operates at peak performance, regardless of workload intensity.

N3K-C3172PQ-XL Specifications

The N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch is a vital component for any organization aiming to enhance its network infrastructure. Whether you’re scaling a data center or optimizing performance for latency-sensitive applications, this switch delivers on every front.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the primary use case for the N3K-C3172PQ-XL Cisco Nexus Switch?
This nexus switch is designed for high-performance data centers, offering scalable networking solutions for virtualized and cloud environments.

2. How many ports does the N3K-C3172PQ-XL have?
It features 48 fixed 10-Gigabit Ethernet ports and 6 40-Gigabit uplink ports, providing excellent connectivity options.

3. Does this switch support Layer 3 functionality?
Yes, the switch supports advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, enabling dynamic routing and flexible network configurations.

4. Is the N3K-C3172PQ-XL suitable for virtualized environments?
Absolutely! Its support for features like VXLAN and NVGRE makes it an ideal choice for highly virtualized infrastructures.

5. What is the power efficiency of this switch?
This nexus switch is built with energy-efficient components, aligning with modern data center sustainability goals without compromising performance.

6. Can I stack multiple N3K-C3172PQ-XL switches?
While the switch doesn’t support physical stacking, it can integrate seamlessly with other Cisco Nexus switches in a fabric architecture.

7. What operating system does the N3K-C3172PQ-XL use?
It runs on Cisco’s NX-OS, which provides robust, secure, and scalable operational capabilities for data center environments.

8. How does the N3K-C3172PQ-XL handle network security?
This switch offers advanced security features such as ACLs, role-based access control, and enhanced policy-driven traffic management.

9. What is the typical deployment scenario for this switch?
The N3K-C3172PQ-XL is commonly deployed in data centers as a top-of-rack (ToR) switch for high-speed access and aggregation.

10. Does Cisco provide support for firmware updates?
Yes, Cisco provides regular firmware updates for this nexus switch to enhance functionality, security, and performance.