Cisco WS-C3560CG-8TC-S
Catalyst 3560C Switch 8 GE, 2 x Dual Uplink, IP Base
Product Highlights
What's Included
*Rackmount Kit not included
Extending enterprise-grade networking beyond the wiring closet shouldn't mean compromising on security, manageability, or performance. The Cisco WS-C3560CG-8TC-S is a compact Gigabit Ethernet switch from the Catalyst 3560-C Series, purpose-built for space-constrained deployments where silent, reliable operation is essential.
This switch delivers eight 10/100/1000 Ethernet ports alongside two dual-purpose uplink ports that can operate as either 10/100/1000 copper or SFP fiber — giving network architects the flexibility to connect back to the core via the medium that best fits the site. Running the Cisco IOS IP Base feature set, the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S provides advanced Layer 2 switching with baseline Layer 3 capabilities including static routing, OSPF, QoS, and comprehensive security policies.
Its fanless, compact form factor makes it ideal for open office workspaces, micro branch offices, classrooms, retail counters, and other environments where noise and space are concerns. With MACsec hardware-based encryption, 802.1X port security, and Cisco TrustSec integration, the switch enforces enterprise security policies right at the network edge. Cisco Smart Install and Auto SmartPorts further simplify deployment and ongoing management across distributed sites.
Note: This product has reached End-of-Life status (End-of-Sale: October 30, 2016). It remains a cost-effective option for maintaining or expanding existing Catalyst 3560-C deployments.
Features & Benefits
Compact Fanless Form Factor
The WS-C3560CG-8TC-S is designed for deployment outside the traditional wiring closet. Its small, fanless chassis operates silently, making it suitable for placement directly in office workspaces, classrooms, or retail environments. Wall-mount, desk-mount, and shelf-mount options provide maximum installation flexibility without requiring rack infrastructure.
Flexible Dual-Purpose Uplinks
The two dual-purpose uplink ports accept either standard 10/100/1000 copper connections or SFP modules for fiber connectivity. This lets you choose the uplink medium that best matches your existing cabling infrastructure — copper for short runs or fiber for longer distances and higher resilience.
Enterprise-Grade Security
With MACsec (802.1AE) hardware-based encryption, 802.1X authentication, ACLs, SSH, and SSL, the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S enforces the same security policies at the network edge as switches in the wiring closet. Cisco TrustSec integration enables policy-based segmentation across the campus.
IP Base Software Feature Set
The IP Base image includes all LAN Base features plus routed access capabilities such as static routing and OSPF. Quality of Service (QoS) policies, VLAN support, Spanning Tree Protocol, and RMON monitoring deliver the intelligence needed for converged voice, video, and data networks.
Simplified Deployment & Management
Cisco Smart Install enables zero-touch provisioning — new switches automatically receive their configuration and IOS image from a central director switch. Auto SmartPorts and Smart Configuration further reduce manual effort, making it practical to deploy and manage switches across many distributed locations.
Deployment Scenarios
Open Office & Workspace Connectivity
Deploy the WS-C3560CG-8TC-S under desks or mounted on walls to bring Gigabit Ethernet to workgroups in open-plan offices. Its fanless, silent operation ensures zero noise disruption, while MACsec encryption protects sensitive data at the access edge.
Micro Branch Office
Provide a full-featured, managed Gigabit switch for small remote offices with 8 or fewer wired devices. The dual-purpose uplinks allow fiber or copper connectivity back to the WAN router or upstream switch, and IP Base routing features reduce the need for additional network gear.
Classroom & Education Environments
Extend wired connectivity to classrooms, labs, or library spaces without running multiple cable drops back to the IDF. The compact form factor fits discreetly in educational settings, and 802.1X port security ensures only authorized devices connect to the network.
Retail & Hospitality Point-of-Sale
Place the switch behind counters or in kiosks to connect POS terminals, barcode scanners, and receipt printers. The small footprint and silent operation are ideal for customer-facing environments, and QoS policies prioritize transaction traffic.
General
Interfaces & Ports
Performance
Software Features
Physical
Power
Included in Box
Warranty
Compatibility Notes
Compatible SFP Modules: The dual-purpose uplink ports accept Cisco 1000BASE SFP modules including GLC-SX-MMD (multimode fiber), GLC-LH-SMD (single-mode fiber), and GLC-T (copper RJ-45 SFP).
Software: Ships with Cisco IOS IP Base. This product is part of the Catalyst 3560-C Series (End-of-Sale: October 30, 2016). Software updates were available through September 2023 for customers with active service contracts.
Mounting: Rackmount kit is not included and must be ordered separately if rack installation is required. Wall-mount and magnet-mount kits are available as accessories.
Suggested Replacement: Cisco recommends the Catalyst 3560-CX Series (e.g., WS-C3560CX-8TC-S) as the migration path for new deployments.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| WS-C3560CG-8PC-S | Catalyst 3560CG 8-Port GE PoE+ Compact Switch | Same platform with PoE+ on all 8 downlink ports — choose this if you need to power IP phones, APs, or cameras. |
| WS-C3560CX-8TC-S | Catalyst 3560-CX 8-Port GE Compact Switch | Next-generation replacement with improved performance, enhanced security, and active Cisco support — recommended for new deployments. |
| WS-C2960CG-8TC-L | Catalyst 2960C 8-Port GE Compact Switch (LAN Base) | Lower-cost alternative with LAN Base software — lacks Layer 3 routing and MACsec but suitable for basic Layer 2 access. |
| WS-C3560CX-8PC-S | Catalyst 3560-CX 8-Port GE PoE+ Compact Switch | Next-gen compact switch with PoE+ and enhanced features — ideal migration path if you also need power delivery. |