Cisco WS-C3560CG-8PC-S
Catalyst 3560C Switch 8 GE PoE(+), 2 x Dual Uplink, IP Base
Product Highlights
What's Included
*Rackmount Kit not included
Extending a managed network beyond the wiring closet shouldn't mean compromising on features, security, or power delivery. The Cisco WS-C3560CG-8PC-S Catalyst 3560C compact switch solves that challenge by packing enterprise-class Gigabit Ethernet switching and PoE+ into a small, fanless enclosure designed for space- and noise-constrained environments.
This fixed-configuration switch provides eight 10/100/1000 PoE+ downlink ports with a 124W total PoE budget, capable of delivering up to 30W per port to power IP phones, wireless access points, IP cameras, and other IEEE 802.3af/at devices. Two dual-purpose uplink ports — each configurable as either 1G copper RJ-45 or 1G SFP — give you the flexibility to connect back to the distribution layer over copper or fiber.
Running the Cisco IOS IP Base feature set, the WS-C3560CG-8PC-S delivers Layer 3 capabilities including static routing, RIP, and OSPF stub, alongside robust security features such as MACsec hardware-based encryption, 802.1X port-based authentication, and Cisco TrustSec. Its compact, fanless design makes it ideal for deployment in open-plan offices, retail floors, classrooms, hotel rooms, and micro branch offices where silent operation and minimal footprint are essential. Note: This product has reached End-of-Life (EOL) status — it remains a cost-effective option on the secondary market for environments where its feature set meets current requirements.
Features & Benefits
Gigabit PoE+ Connectivity
All eight downlink ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds with IEEE 802.3af/at PoE+, delivering up to 30W per port from a shared 124W budget. Power IP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras without running separate power cables — simplifying deployment and reducing infrastructure costs.
Flexible Dual-Purpose Uplinks
Two dual-purpose uplink ports each support either a 1G copper RJ-45 connection or a 1G SFP module for fiber connectivity. This flexibility lets you match your uplink media to the existing infrastructure — copper for short runs or fiber for longer distances and electrical isolation.
Layer 3 IP Base Routing
The IP Base feature set goes beyond basic Layer 2 switching to include static routing, RIP, OSPF stub, and inter-VLAN routing. This enables the switch to handle local routing decisions at the network edge, reducing traffic that must traverse the core and improving application responsiveness.
Enterprise-Grade Security
MACsec hardware-based encryption secures data on the wire between the switch and connected endpoints. Combined with 802.1X port-based authentication, DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, and Cisco TrustSec, the WS-C3560CG-8PC-S enforces consistent security policies at the access edge.
Fanless Compact Design
The small, fanless enclosure operates silently, making it suitable for placement directly in workspaces, classrooms, retail floors, and hotel rooms. Flexible mounting options include desktop, wall-mount, and optional 19-inch rack installation with a separately available rackmount kit.
Cisco EnergyWise Technology
EnergyWise enables network-wide measurement and control of power consumption for connected PoE devices. IT teams can schedule power delivery, reduce energy waste during off-hours, and gain visibility into power usage — supporting sustainability goals and lowering operational costs.
Deployment Scenarios
Branch Office / Micro Branch
Deploy the WS-C3560CG-8PC-S in small or remote offices to provide Gigabit connectivity and PoE+ power for IP phones, a wireless AP, and a few workstations. The dual uplinks connect back to the WAN router or distribution switch over copper or fiber, while IP Base routing handles local inter-VLAN traffic.
Retail Point-of-Sale Environment
Place the compact, fanless switch on the sales floor to power POS terminals, card readers, IP cameras, and barcode scanners via PoE+. Its silent operation and small footprint make it unobtrusive in customer-facing areas, while 802.1X and DHCP snooping enforce PCI-compliant network segmentation.
Education Classroom / Conference Room
Provide wired Gigabit drops and PoE+ for an IP phone, wireless access point, and interactive displays in classrooms or meeting rooms. The fanless design ensures zero acoustic distraction, and the compact form factor allows wall-mounting near the point of use.
Hospitality / Space-Constrained Deployments
Ideal for hotel rooms, cruise ships, and kiosk installations where running multiple cable drops is impractical. A single uplink from the wiring closet feeds the compact switch, which then distributes Gigabit connectivity and PoE power to local devices.
General
Interfaces / Ports
Power over Ethernet
Performance
Memory
Physical
Power
Environmental
Compatibility Notes
Uplink SFP Compatibility: The two dual-purpose uplink ports accept standard 1G SFP modules (e.g., GLC-SX-MMD, GLC-LH-SMD, GLC-T). Confirm SFP compatibility with the installed IOS version.
Rackmount Kit: A 19-inch rackmount kit is not included and must be ordered separately if rack installation is required.
Power: The switch uses an internal autoranging AC power supply (100–240 VAC). One AC power cord is included.
EOL Status: This product has reached End-of-Sale. Cisco's suggested replacement is the Catalyst 3560-CX series (e.g., WS-C3560CX-8PC-S). Verify firmware and SMARTnet availability before deployment in production environments.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| WS-C3560CG-8TC-S | Catalyst 3560CG 8-Port GE (Non-PoE) | Same platform without PoE — choose this if PoE is not required and lower cost is preferred. |
| WS-C3560C-8PC-S | Catalyst 3560C 8-Port FE PoE | Fast Ethernet (10/100) downlinks instead of Gigabit — lower throughput at a lower price point. |
| WS-C3560CX-8PC-S | Catalyst 3560-CX 8-Port PoE (Successor) | Next-generation replacement with higher PoE budget (up to 240W), line-rate GE, and Cisco DNA support. |
| WS-C2960CG-8TC-L | Catalyst 2960CG 8-Port GE LAN Base | Layer 2 only with LAN Base feature set — no Layer 3 routing, no PoE, lower cost for basic switching. |