Cisco WS-C3560C-8PC-S
Catalyst 3560C Switch 8 FE PoE, 2 x Dual Uplink, IP Base
Product Highlights
What's Included
*Rackmount Kit not included
Extending enterprise-grade networking to spaces where a full-size switch simply won't fit is a common challenge for IT teams managing branch offices, retail locations, and open workspaces. The Cisco Catalyst 3560C Switch (WS-C3560C-8PC-S) solves this problem with a compact, fanless design that delivers eight Fast Ethernet PoE ports and two dual-purpose Gigabit Ethernet uplinks in a whisper-quiet package.
Designed for deployments outside the traditional wiring closet, the Catalyst 3560C provides IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet to connected devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and IP surveillance cameras — reducing cabling complexity and installation costs. The two dual-purpose uplink ports accept either 10/100/1000 RJ-45 copper or SFP fiber modules, giving network architects the flexibility to connect back to the campus core over the medium that best suits the environment.
Running the IP Base feature set, the WS-C3560C-8PC-S supports Layer 2 switching alongside basic Layer 3 routing capabilities including static routes and RIP. Advanced security features — including 802.1X port-based authentication, ACLs, DHCP snooping, and Dynamic ARP Inspection — help protect the network edge. With its autoranging internal power supply (100–240 VAC), the switch is ready for worldwide deployment right out of the box.
Note: This product has reached Cisco End-of-Life status. It remains a cost-effective option for budget-conscious deployments and lab environments when purchased pre-owned.
Features & Benefits
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
All eight Fast Ethernet ports support IEEE 802.3af PoE, enabling the switch to deliver both data and power to connected endpoints over a single cable. This simplifies deployment of IP phones, wireless access points, and security cameras — especially in locations where dedicated power outlets are scarce or costly to install.
Compact, Fanless Form Factor
The Catalyst 3560C's small chassis and completely fanless design make it ideal for open office environments, classrooms, retail counters, and other noise-sensitive or space-constrained locations. It can be placed on a desktop or wall-mounted, eliminating the need for a dedicated wiring closet.
Dual-Purpose Gigabit Uplinks
Two dual-purpose uplink ports each offer a choice between a 10/100/1000 RJ-45 copper connection and an SFP fiber slot. This flexibility lets you match the uplink medium to your infrastructure — copper for short runs, fiber for longer distances or electrically noisy environments.
Enterprise Security Services
The WS-C3560C-8PC-S includes a robust security toolkit: 802.1X port-based access control, DHCP snooping, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), and Access Control Lists (ACLs). These features protect the network edge from unauthorized access and common Layer 2 attacks without requiring additional appliances.
IP Base Software
The IP Base feature set provides full Layer 2 switching capabilities along with basic Layer 3 routing (static routes and RIP). For environments that need advanced dynamic routing protocols such as OSPF, an upgrade to the IP Services license is available.
Deployment Scenarios
Branch Office / Small Enterprise LAN Access
Deploy the WS-C3560C-8PC-S as an access-layer switch in branch offices where a handful of PoE-powered IP phones and a wireless access point are needed. Its compact size and silent operation let it sit on a shelf or mount to a wall, avoiding the cost of a dedicated network closet.
Retail & Point-of-Sale Environments
Power PoS terminals, barcode scanners, and IP phones from a single switch tucked under a counter. The fanless design ensures zero noise in customer-facing areas, while enterprise-class QoS prioritizes transaction and voice traffic.
Classroom & Education Deployments
Provide wired connectivity and PoE for a classroom wireless access point and IP video endpoints. The compact form factor and silent operation make it unobtrusive in learning environments, and 802.1X authentication helps enforce network access policies.
Lab & Test Environments
As an End-of-Life product available at significant discounts on the secondary market, the WS-C3560C-8PC-S is an excellent choice for network certification study labs (CCNA/CCNP) and proof-of-concept testing where full Cisco IOS functionality is needed at minimal cost.
General
Interfaces / Ports
Power
Software
Lifecycle
Compatibility Notes
SFP Module Compatibility: The dual-purpose uplink SFP slots support Cisco 1000BASE SFP modules including GLC-SX-MMD (multimode, 850 nm) and GLC-LH-SMD (single-mode, 1310 nm).
Console Access: Supports both RJ-45 serial console (CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45) and USB mini-Type B console (CAB-CONSOLE-USB) connections.
End-of-Life Status: Cisco announced End-of-Sale for the Catalyst 3560-C Series on November 2, 2015, with the last order date of October 30, 2016. No new Cisco TAC support contracts are available. The recommended migration path is to the Cisco Catalyst 3560-CX Series or newer Catalyst 1000 Series switches.
Rackmount Kit: A rackmount kit is not included and must be ordered separately if rack installation is required.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| WS-C3560CG-8PC-S | Catalyst 3560CG 8-Port GbE PoE Switch | Upgrades downlink ports from Fast Ethernet to Gigabit Ethernet while retaining the same compact form factor and PoE budget. |
| WS-C3560CX-8PC-S | Catalyst 3560-CX 8-Port GbE PoE+ Switch | Next-generation replacement with Gigabit downlinks, PoE+ (240W budget), and higher switching bandwidth (32 Gbps). |
| WS-C3560C-12PC-S | Catalyst 3560C 12-Port FE PoE Switch | Same 3560-C family but with 12 Fast Ethernet PoE ports instead of 8, for environments needing additional port density. |
| WS-C2960C-8PC-L | Catalyst 2960-C 8-Port FE PoE Switch | Lower-cost Layer 2–only alternative in the same compact form factor; lacks the Layer 3 routing capabilities of the 3560C. |