Cisco SFP-GE-L
1000BASE-LX/LH SFP (DOM), Original Cisco
Product Highlights
When your network demands reliable Gigabit Ethernet connectivity across campus buildings, data center floors, or service-provider access rings, the wrong optic can mean costly downtime and limited visibility into link health. The Cisco SFP-GE-L eliminates that risk.
This original Cisco 1000BASE-LX/LH SFP transceiver operates at 1310 nm and supports link spans of up to 10 km over standard single-mode fiber (9/125 µm) and up to 550 m over multimode fiber, fully compliant with the IEEE 802.3z 1000BASE-LX standard. Its built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM) gives network engineers real-time access to critical parameters — optical output power, input power, temperature, laser bias current, and supply voltage — enabling proactive fault detection before users are impacted.
The SFP-GE-L is a hot-swappable, plug-in module with a duplex LC connector, conforming to the SFP Multi-Source Agreement (MSA). It is compatible with a wide range of Cisco switches, routers, and other networking equipment that accept SFP transceivers. With an extended operating temperature range and DOM support, the SFP-GE-L is an ideal choice for enterprise campus, service provider, and light-industrial deployments where Gigabit Ethernet over fiber is required.
Features & Benefits
1000BASE-LX/LH Gigabit Ethernet
The SFP-GE-L delivers 1 Gbps throughput over fiber, compliant with the IEEE 802.3z 1000BASE-LX standard. It supports both single-mode fiber (up to 10 km) and multimode fiber (up to 550 m), giving you flexibility to leverage existing cabling infrastructure while maintaining full Gigabit line-rate performance.
Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM)
DOM support lets you monitor real-time transceiver parameters — including optical Tx/Rx power, temperature, laser bias current, and supply voltage — directly from the switch or router CLI or NMS. This visibility enables proactive link-health management, faster root-cause analysis, and reduced mean time to repair (MTTR).
Hot-Swappable SFP Design
The SFP-GE-L plugs into any standard SFP slot and can be installed or removed without powering down the host device. This hot-swap capability simplifies maintenance windows and allows you to upgrade or replace optics with zero disruption to adjacent ports.
Extended Temperature & Reliability
Designed with an extended operating temperature range, the SFP-GE-L is suitable for deployments in environments that exceed standard commercial temperature limits. Combined with RoHS compliance and adherence to SFP MSA standards, it delivers long-term reliability across diverse installation scenarios.
Broad Cisco Platform Compatibility
The SFP-GE-L is compatible with a wide range of Cisco switches and routers that support SFP transceiver modules. It can be intermixed on a port-by-port basis with other Cisco SFP types (1000BASE-SX, 1000BASE-ZX, 1000BASE-T, etc.), providing maximum deployment flexibility.
Deployment Scenarios
Enterprise Campus Backbone
Connect distribution and access layer switches across campus buildings over single-mode fiber runs of up to 10 km. The SFP-GE-L provides the reach and reliability needed for inter-building links without requiring media converters or signal repeaters.
Data Center Interconnect (Short-to-Mid Range)
Use the SFP-GE-L for Gigabit Ethernet uplinks between top-of-rack switches, aggregation layers, or out-of-band management networks within and between data center facilities connected by single-mode fiber.
Service Provider Access & Aggregation
Deploy in CPE routers or access switches to deliver Gigabit Ethernet services to business customers over metro fiber. DOM support enables remote monitoring of link quality from the NOC, reducing truck rolls.
Industrial & Semi-Harsh Environments
The extended operating temperature range makes the SFP-GE-L suitable for wiring closets, outdoor cabinets, or lightly climate-controlled spaces where standard commercial-grade optics may not be reliable.
General
Performance
Features
Power
Compliance
Compatibility Notes
The SFP-GE-L is compatible with Cisco switches, routers, and other devices that support 1000BASE-LX/LH SFP transceiver modules. Always consult the Cisco SFP Transceiver Module Compatibility Matrix to verify support for your specific platform and IOS/IOS-XE version.
Note: When used over legacy multimode fiber, a mode conditioning patch cable may be required. Refer to Cisco documentation for details on MMF deployment guidelines.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
| Part Number | Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| GLC-LH-SMD | Cisco 1000BASE-LX/LH SFP (DOM) | Standard commercial temperature range (0–70°C) with DOM; lower cost alternative for climate-controlled environments. |
| GLC-LH-SM | Cisco 1000BASE-LX/LH SFP (No DOM) | Legacy model without DOM support; EOL — consider SFP-GE-L or GLC-LH-SMD as replacement. |
| GLC-LX-SM-RGD | Cisco 1000BASE-LX/LH Rugged SFP | Industrial-grade with wider operating temperature (-40 to 85°C); designed for Cisco industrial Ethernet switches. |
| SFP-GE-S | Cisco 1000BASE-SX SFP (DOM) | Short-reach multimode (850 nm, up to 550 m on OM2); choose SFP-GE-L when you need single-mode / longer reach. |
