Cisco GLC-TE
1000BASE-T SFP transceiver module for Category 5 copper wire, Original Cisco
Product Highlights
When your network design calls for Gigabit Ethernet over copper — whether connecting servers in a wiring closet, extending access-layer uplinks, or bridging short-distance segments without fiber — the Cisco GLC-TE is the proven, purpose-built solution.
The GLC-TE is a 1000BASE-T SFP transceiver module that plugs into any compatible Cisco SFP slot and provides a standard RJ-45 interface for copper connectivity over Category 5 (or better) unshielded twisted-pair cabling at distances up to 100 meters (328 ft). As the extended-temperature variant in Cisco's copper SFP lineup, it operates reliably across a -5°C to 85°C range, making it suitable for industrial, edge, and non-climate-controlled deployments where standard-temperature modules may fall short.
The module supports 10/100/1000 Mbps auto-negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX, ensuring plug-and-play compatibility with a wide range of endpoints. It is fully hot-swappable, so you can add or replace modules on the fly without disrupting network traffic. Compliant with IEEE 802.3ab and the SFP Multi-Source Agreement (MSA), the GLC-TE integrates seamlessly across Cisco Catalyst, Nexus, ISR, and ASR platforms — giving network teams the flexibility to mix copper and fiber SFPs on a port-by-port basis to match each link's requirements and budget.
Features & Benefits
Gigabit Copper Connectivity
The GLC-TE delivers 1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet over standard RJ-45 copper cabling, enabling high-speed connectivity without the cost of fiber optic infrastructure. It operates over Category 5 UTP at distances up to 100m, letting you leverage existing structured cabling investments across office floors, wiring closets, and equipment racks.
Extended Operating Temperature
Rated for -5°C to 85°C, the GLC-TE is the extended-temperature counterpart to the standard GLC-T. This wider thermal envelope makes it ideal for deployment in industrial environments, outdoor enclosures, and edge locations where ambient temperatures may exceed the comfort zone of standard-rated optics.
Auto-Negotiation & Auto MDI/MDIX
Built-in 10/100/1000 Mbps auto-negotiation ensures the module automatically matches the highest common speed with the connected device. Auto MDI/MDIX crossover detection eliminates the need for special crossover cables, reducing deployment complexity and potential cabling errors.
Hot-Swappable SFP Design
The GLC-TE is fully hot-swappable, allowing installation and removal without powering down the host device or interrupting other ports. This simplifies maintenance windows, accelerates troubleshooting, and supports pay-as-you-grow network expansion by populating SFP slots only when needed.
Flexible Port-by-Port Media Choice
Cisco SFP slots accept both copper and fiber modules, so you can mix GLC-TE copper SFPs alongside fiber SFPs (such as GLC-SX-MMD or GLC-LH-SMD) within the same switch. This port-by-port flexibility lets you tailor each link to its distance and media requirements without dedicated hardware.
Deployment Scenarios
Enterprise Access Layer & Wiring Closets
Deploy the GLC-TE in Catalyst access switches to provide Gigabit uplinks or host connections over existing Cat5e/Cat6 structured cabling. This avoids the cost and complexity of fiber runs for short-distance links within a building floor or between adjacent racks.
Server & Storage Connectivity
Use the GLC-TE to connect copper-only servers, NAS appliances, or management interfaces to SFP-based top-of-rack switches. Auto-negotiation ensures seamless link establishment with devices that may operate at 10/100/1000 Mbps.
Industrial & Extended-Temperature Deployments
The extended operating range of -5°C to 85°C makes the GLC-TE suitable for industrial Ethernet switches (such as the Cisco IE 2000 series) deployed in factories, warehouses, or outdoor cabinets where temperature fluctuations are common.
Temporary or Lab Connectivity
Quickly establish Gigabit links in lab, staging, or temporary environments using readily available Ethernet patch cables. The hot-swappable design and copper media eliminate the need for fiber patch panels and cleaning kits.
General
Performance
Interface & Cabling
Physical
Environmental
Power
Compliance
Compatibility Notes
The Cisco GLC-TE is supported across a wide range of Cisco platforms with SFP slots, including Catalyst 2960, 3560, 3650, 3750, 3850, 9200, 9300, 9500 series switches; Nexus 7700, 9300, and 9500 series; ISR 4000 series routers; and ASR series routers. Compatibility depends on the specific hardware revision and software version — always consult the Cisco Transceiver Module Compatibility Matrix (available on cisco.com) to verify support for your exact platform and IOS/IOS-XE release. Note that some SFP ports on certain platforms may support only optical modules; verify that your target port supports copper/RJ-45 SFPs before deployment.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| GLC-T | Cisco 1000BASE-T SFP (Standard Temp) | Standard temperature range (0°C to 70°C) vs. GLC-TE's extended -5°C to 85°C — choose GLC-T for climate-controlled environments at a lower cost. |
| GLC-SX-MMD | Cisco 1000BASE-SX SFP (Multimode Fiber) | Fiber-optic SFP for multimode fiber up to 550m — choose when distance exceeds 100m or EMI immunity is critical. |
| GLC-LH-SMD | Cisco 1000BASE-LX/LH SFP (Single-Mode Fiber) | Single-mode fiber SFP supporting up to 10km — ideal for inter-building or campus backbone links beyond copper reach. |
| SFP-GE-T | Cisco 1000BASE-T SFP (Different PID) | Alternate Cisco PID for 1000BASE-T copper SFP — functionally similar; verify platform compatibility matrix for your specific switch model. |
