Cisco GLC-T
1000BASE-T Copper SFP, Original Cisco
Product Highlights
When your network design calls for Gigabit Ethernet over copper but your switch or router only exposes SFP slots, the Cisco GLC-T bridges the gap. This original Cisco 1000BASE-T SFP transceiver module plugs into any compatible SFP port and provides an RJ-45 copper interface, letting you leverage your existing Category 5, 5e, or 6 unshielded twisted-pair cabling for link lengths up to 100 meters (328 ft).
The GLC-T supports 10/100/1000 auto-negotiation, so it will match the speed of the connected device automatically — ideal for mixed-speed environments where endpoints range from legacy 10/100 Mbps gear to full Gigabit hosts. Auto MDI/MDIX detection means you never need to worry about straight-through versus crossover cables; the module handles it transparently.
As a hot-swappable, MSA-compliant SFP module, the GLC-T can be installed or replaced on the fly without disrupting other ports on the host device. It is rated for commercial operating temperatures (0 °C to 70 °C) and draws minimal power, making it suitable for dense deployments across campus access layers, server rooms, and management networks. Whether you are connecting end-user workstations, IP phones, surveillance cameras, or out-of-band management interfaces, the Cisco GLC-T delivers reliable copper Gigabit connectivity in a compact, proven form factor.
Note: Cisco announced End-of-Sale for the GLC-T on June 1, 2017, with the GLC-TE designated as its official replacement. Pre-owned and refurbished GLC-T modules remain an excellent, cost-effective option for maintaining existing deployments.
Features & Benefits
Gigabit Copper Connectivity
The GLC-T delivers 1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet over standard Category 5/5e/6 UTP copper cabling at distances up to 100 m. This lets you add copper Gigabit ports to SFP-equipped switches and routers without deploying fiber, reducing cabling costs and simplifying moves, adds, and changes.
Flexible Auto-Negotiation
With 10/100/1000 Mbps auto-negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX, the GLC-T adapts to whatever is on the other end of the cable. Connect legacy 100 Mbps devices alongside Gigabit hosts without manual speed or duplex configuration — the module handles it all, reducing deployment time and troubleshooting effort.
Hot-Swappable SFP Design
The GLC-T follows the industry-standard SFP Multi-Source Agreement (MSA), enabling hot-swap installation and removal. Swap modules on the fly without rebooting the host device or disrupting traffic on adjacent ports — critical for production environments where uptime matters.
Broad Cisco Platform Compatibility
As an original Cisco transceiver, the GLC-T is supported across a wide range of Cisco platforms including Catalyst 2960, 3560, 3750, 3850, and 4500 series switches, ASR 1000 and 9000 series routers, ASA 5500 series firewalls, and more. Genuine Cisco coding ensures plug-and-play operation with no unsupported-transceiver warnings.
Cost-Effective Copper Integration
By converting an SFP slot to a standard RJ-45 copper port, the GLC-T eliminates the need for external media converters or dedicated copper line cards. This pay-as-you-populate flexibility lets you mix copper and fiber SFPs on the same switch, optimizing your port investment based on actual connectivity needs.
Deployment Scenarios
Campus Access Layer
Deploy the GLC-T in Catalyst access switches to connect end-user workstations, IP phones, and wireless access points over existing Cat5e/6 horizontal cabling. Auto-negotiation ensures seamless connectivity regardless of endpoint speed.
Server Room & Data Center Top-of-Rack
Use the GLC-T to provide 1 GbE copper uplinks from servers, storage appliances, or out-of-band management ports to SFP-equipped top-of-rack switches — no fiber patch cords or media converters required.
Out-of-Band Management Networks
Populate management SFP ports on routers, firewalls, and wireless controllers with the GLC-T to establish dedicated copper management links. The compact SFP form factor keeps management connectivity separate from production data paths.
Legacy Network Maintenance
For networks with existing GLC-T deployments, pre-owned modules provide a drop-in replacement to keep SFP slots populated without re-specifying the port or changing the cabling design — extending the useful life of proven infrastructure.
General
Performance
Electrical
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Compliance
Compatibility Notes
Platform Compatibility (Partial List)
The Cisco GLC-T is supported on a broad range of Cisco platforms, including but not limited to:
- Catalyst Switches: 2960, 2960-S, 2960-X, 2960-Plus, 3560, 3560-E, 3560-X, 3750, 3750-E, 3750-X, 3850, 4500, 4900 series
- Catalyst Blade Switches: 3000, 3100 series
- ASR Routers: ASR 901, ASR 903, ASR 1000, ASR 9000 series
- ASA Firewalls: ASA 5500 series
- Other: Cisco 5508 Wireless Controller, IE 2000/4000 Industrial Ethernet switches
Note: The GLC-T can also be inserted into SFP+ ports on many Cisco platforms (e.g., Catalyst 3850, Nexus 9000) at 1 GbE speed. Always verify compatibility via the Cisco Transceiver Compatibility Matrix.
End-of-Sale Notice: The GLC-T reached End-of-Sale on June 1, 2017. The Cisco-designated replacement is the GLC-TE (extended temperature range, -5 °C to 85 °C).
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| GLC-TE | Cisco 1000BASE-T SFP (Extended Temp) | Cisco-designated replacement for GLC-T; extended temperature range (-5°C to 85°C) and still actively sold. |
| SFP-GE-T | Cisco 1000BASE-T SFP (NEBS 3) | NEBS Level 3 ESD-rated variant for telco/mission-critical environments; higher durability certification than GLC-T. |
| GLC-SX-MMD | Cisco 1000BASE-SX SFP (Fiber) | Multimode fiber SFP for up to 550m reach; choose this when distance exceeds copper's 100m limit or EMI immunity is needed. |
| GLC-LH-SMD | Cisco 1000BASE-LX/LH SFP (Fiber) | Single-mode fiber SFP for up to 10 km reach; ideal for inter-building or campus backbone links beyond copper range. |
