WS-C2960XR-24PS-I Cisco Network Switch

The Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PS-I Network Switch is one of the most dependable access-layer switches in Cisco’s enterprise portfolio, designed for organizations that want reliable PoE performance, excellent stability, and long-term investment value. As part of the popular Cisco 2960-XR series, the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I delivers a combination of intelligent Layer 3 Lite capabilities, enhanced scalability, strong security features, and high-efficiency power management. This Cisco switch is built for businesses that want a durable, predictable, and easy-to-manage networking foundation while also preparing for future expansion. At ITMan, we provide the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I to businesses across the UAE that demand a balance of performance and cost efficiency.

Unlike many access-layer switches that limit features to basic connectivity, the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I stands out with its 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports, dual modular power support, and advanced Cisco IOS features that make it suitable for both campus networks and medium-sized enterprise environments. This switch is engineered for 24/7 operation and optimized to serve modern traffic demands such as IP surveillance, VoIP deployments, wireless access points, and enterprise workstations. The hardware quality, backed by Cisco’s operating system intelligence, makes the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I an extremely stable choice for organizations that need dependable uptime.

The architecture of the Cisco WS-C2960XR-24PS-I offers more flexibility than traditional fixed switches. It includes modular power supplies for redundancy, 10G uplink ports for multi-gigabit backbone integration, and generous PoE+ power for powering a wide range of connected devices. Whether a business is upgrading from older 2960S or 2960G models, or building a new hybrid environment with wireless and wired connectivity, the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I provides a long operational life and predictable performance. As network workloads grow, the switch maintains performance levels due to its advanced forwarding engine and efficient hardware design.

Detailed Introduction to the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I

The WS-C2960XR-24PS-I is a stackable access switch with a feature-rich design. It comes with 24 Gigabit PoE+ ports, giving businesses the ability to power phones, cameras, access points, and other devices without external power injectors. The total PoE budget of the switch provides enough coverage for most medium-sized deployments, including offices, educational environments, retail stores, clinics, and hospitality networks. The integration of Cisco FlexStack-Plus technology allows multiple switches to be stacked to simplify management and enhance availability, offering unified control and improved redundancy.

This model is part of Cisco’s XR family, which provides advanced Layer 3 routing features such as static routing, OSPF for routing flexibility, EIGRP stub support, and advanced QoS capabilities. These features allow the switch to support more complex environments where traffic management and segmentation are essential. The WS-C2960XR-24PS-I also includes support for Cisco EnergyWise, enabling organizations to optimize energy consumption across all connected devices. This is especially useful in PoE-heavy environments where power control makes a financial difference over time.

In terms of build quality, the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I follows Cisco’s long-standing engineering philosophy: solid metal chassis, excellent heat dissipation, modular power supply options, and robust internal architecture. The switch is engineered to run continuously without performance degradation, making it suitable for mission-critical networks. Its system memory, flash storage, and forwarding capacity are sized appropriately for environments with moderate traffic and a need for dependable performance. Whether used as a core access switch or part of a multi-layer architecture, it integrates smoothly into both older and newer Cisco environments.

Applications of the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I

The WS-C2960XR-24PS-I is a versatile access switch suitable for a wide range of business applications. In offices, it is often deployed to power IP phones and provide connectivity to workstations and printers. In surveillance networks, its PoE+ capability makes it ideal for powering high-resolution IP cameras without external adapters. In wireless-heavy environments, the switch supports enterprise access points with ease, delivering stable Gigabit connections and reliable power outputs.

Because the switch supports Layer 3 Lite routing, many businesses use the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I as a distribution switch for departmental segmentation. VLANs, inter-VLAN routing, DHCP functions, and QoS policies can all be configured to optimize application performance. From schools to government offices, clinics, retail environments, and growing corporate networks, this switch offers the agility and dependability needed for long-term deployment.

Ports and Connectivity on the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I

The WS-C2960XR-24PS-I includes 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports, allowing a mix of devices such as cameras, phones, and access points to receive both data and power. The PoE+ capability enhances compatibility with modern IoT devices and high-power access points.

For uplinks, the switch offers four SFP ports that support Gigabit and 10 Gigabit fiber modules depending on the chosen transceivers. This uplink flexibility makes it easier to integrate the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I into multi-level networks where backbone speed is important. Using fiber uplinks also extends deployment range in larger buildings, multi-floor offices, or campus environments.

The modular power supply design provides additional flexibility, allowing businesses to replace or upgrade power units based on their PoE requirements. Dual power supply support increases operational continuity and ensures that the switch stays functional even if one power source fails.

Practical Use Case: Designing an Office Network with WS-C2960XR-24PS-I

When deploying the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I in a modern office environment, the PoE+ capability becomes a major advantage. Instead of using separate power supplies for every IP phone or wireless AP, the switch centralizes power delivery and network connectivity. This reduces clutter, simplifies cabling, and lowers installation time. With 10G uplinks, the network backbone remains fast even when multiple APs, VoIP devices, and cameras generate substantial traffic.

Practical Use Case: Using WS-C2960XR-24PS-I in Surveillance and Security Networks

Surveillance networks benefit significantly from the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I thanks to its stable PoE+ power, high port density, and robust traffic handling. Businesses can connect dozens of high-resolution IP cameras while maintaining consistent performance. The switch’s Layer 3 Lite capabilities allow routing between security VLANs and main internal networks while keeping surveillance traffic isolated for improved security and bandwidth control.

Comparison with Similar Cisco Models

Below is a comparison between the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I and three popular Cisco models in the same family.

Technical Specifications Table for WS-C2960XR-24PS-I

FAQ for WS-C2960XR-24PS-I

1. What is the main advantage of the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I?
   It provides reliable PoE+ power with Layer 3 Lite capabilities, making it versatile for many enterprise environments.
2. Does the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I support stacking?
   Yes, it supports FlexStack-Plus for easier management and redundancy.
3. How many devices can be powered using PoE?
   Up to 24 PoE+ devices depending on the total power draw.
4. Can I use 10G uplinks with this switch?
   Yes, by using the appropriate SFP modules.
5. Is this switch suitable for IP surveillance systems?
   Yes, its PoE+ power and reliable performance make it ideal for IP camera networks.
6. Does it support VLAN segmentation?
   Yes, it supports advanced VLAN and inter-VLAN routing.
7. What power supplies are compatible with this switch?
   It uses Cisco modular power supplies for the XR series.
8. Can the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I replace older 2960S models?
   Yes, it is a stronger and more advanced upgrade.
9. Does the switch support QoS for VoIP applications?
   Yes, QoS is included for optimizing voice quality.
10. Is the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I sold by ITMan?
    Yes, ITMan supplies this model to businesses across the UAE.

Conclusion

The WS-C2960XR-24PS-I is a highly capable enterprise switch that brings strong PoE performance, reliable Layer 3 Lite routing, 10G uplink flexibility, and excellent scalability for growing networks. Its modular design, high energy efficiency, and powerful software features make it ideal for businesses seeking long-term stability and performance. For organizations planning structured cabling upgrades, VoIP rollouts, surveillance systems, or wireless-heavy deployments, the WS-C2960XR-24PS-I offers outstanding value and operational predictability.