Cisco WS-C2960S-48TS-L
Catalyst 2960S 48 GigE, 4 x SFP LAN Base
Product Highlights
What's Included
(1) Rackmount Kit (RCKMNT-1RU)
As campus and branch networks scale, IT teams need access-layer switches that deliver reliable Gigabit connectivity without complexity or excessive power draw. The Cisco WS-C2960S-48TS-L is a fixed-configuration, Layer 2 Gigabit Ethernet switch from the Catalyst 2960-S Series, purpose-built for enterprise access deployments.
With 48 x 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports and 4 x SFP uplink slots, this switch provides high-density desktop connectivity and flexible uplink options to your distribution layer. Running Cisco IOS LAN Base software, it delivers enterprise-class features including VLAN segmentation (up to 255 active VLANs), Quality of Service (QoS) for voice and video prioritization, and robust security through 802.1X authentication, port security, and access control lists.
The WS-C2960S-48TS-L supports Cisco FlexStack stacking via an optional module (C2960S-STACK), enabling up to four switches to operate as a single logical unit with a unified configuration and single management IP. With a 176 Gbps switching capacity and 77.4 Mpps forwarding rate, it handles wire-speed traffic across all ports. Its energy-efficient design consumes just 52 watts at full throughput, and the compact 1RU form factor fits neatly into standard 19-inch racks. This is a proven, cost-effective choice for organizations that need dependable Layer 2 switching without PoE requirements.
Note: This product has reached Cisco End-of-Sale status. It remains a reliable and budget-friendly option when purchased pre-owned or refurbished.
Features & Benefits
High-Density Gigabit Access
Delivers 48 ports of 10/100/1000 Ethernet connectivity in a single 1RU chassis, consolidating desktop, IP phone, and wireless access point connections. Four SFP uplink slots provide flexible fiber or copper connectivity to your distribution or core switches.
FlexStack Stacking (Optional)
With the optional C2960S-STACK module, up to four Catalyst 2960-S switches can be stacked into a single logical unit. FlexStack provides a unified data plane, single IP management, and cross-stack features like EtherChannel and SPAN — simplifying operations and improving availability.
Enterprise Security
LAN Base software includes 802.1X authentication, MAC address filtering, port security, and access control lists (ACLs) to enforce network access policies. SSH and SSL support ensures secure remote management sessions.
Quality of Service (QoS)
Built-in QoS capabilities enable priority treatment for delay-sensitive traffic such as voice and video. Classification, marking, and queuing features ensure critical business applications receive the bandwidth they need.
Cisco SmartOperations
Smart Install enables zero-touch deployment of new switches. Auto Smartports automatically configures ports based on connected device type. Smart Troubleshooting provides built-in diagnostics and health checks — all reducing operational overhead and lowering TCO.
Energy-Efficient Design
Consuming just 52 watts at full throughput, this non-PoE switch minimizes energy costs. Cisco EnergyWise technology provides additional visibility and control over power consumption across the network.
Deployment Scenarios
Enterprise Campus Access Layer
Deploy the WS-C2960S-48TS-L at the access layer to provide Gigabit Ethernet connectivity for end-user workstations, printers, and VoIP phones. FlexStack stacking simplifies management of multiple closet switches under a single IP address.
Branch Office Connectivity
Ideal for branch offices that need reliable, high-density Gigabit switching without PoE. The compact 1RU form factor and low 52W power consumption make it well-suited for smaller wiring closets with limited power and cooling capacity.
Lab and Test Environments
As a cost-effective pre-owned switch with proven Cisco IOS LAN Base features, the WS-C2960S-48TS-L is an excellent choice for network labs, training environments, and certification study setups where full Cisco feature sets are needed at a lower price point.
Budget-Conscious Network Refresh
Organizations extending the life of existing Catalyst 2960-S deployments can use pre-owned WS-C2960S-48TS-L units as spares or expansion switches, maintaining consistency across the network without the cost of a full platform migration.
General
Interfaces
Performance
Stacking
Memory
Physical
Power
Environmental
Compatibility Notes
Stacking
- FlexStack Module: C2960S-STACK (optional, hot-swappable)
- Stacking Cables: CAB-STK-E-0.5M, CAB-STK-E-1M, CAB-STK-E-3M
- Supports stacking of up to 4 Catalyst 2960-S switches (LAN Base required)
SFP Compatibility
- Accepts standard Cisco 1G SFP modules (e.g., GLC-LH-SMD, GLC-SX-MMD, GLC-T)
- SFP slots support 1 Gigabit Ethernet only
Console Access
- CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45 — Console cable 6 ft with RJ45
- CAB-CONSOLE-USB — Console cable 6 ft with USB Type A and mini-B
Rack Mounting
- Included: RCKMNT-1RU rack-mount kit for 19-inch and 24-inch racks
- Optional: RCKMNT-REC-1RU= (1RU recessed rack-mount kit)
Software
- Ships with Cisco IOS LAN Base feature set
Lifecycle Notice
- End-of-Sale: November 6, 2015
- This product has reached End-of-Life (EOL) status. Cisco TAC support is no longer available. Third-party support contracts may be available.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| WS-C2960S-24TS-L | Catalyst 2960S 24-Port GigE, 4 SFP, LAN Base | Same feature set in a 24-port configuration — ideal when 48 ports are not required. |
| WS-C2960S-48LPS-L | Catalyst 2960S 48-Port GigE PoE, 4 SFP, LAN Base | Adds PoE+ (370W) for powering IP phones and access points — choose this if PoE is needed. |
| WS-C2960X-48TS-L | Catalyst 2960-X 48-Port GigE, 4 SFP, LAN Base | Next-generation replacement with FlexStack-Plus stacking and improved performance. |
| WS-C2960S-48TS-S | Catalyst 2960S 48-Port GigE, 2 SFP, LAN Lite | Lower-cost LAN Lite software with only 2 SFP uplinks — no stacking support. |
