Cisco WS-C2960-24TC-L Switch: Specs, Use Cases & Price in Pakistan

For small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and branch offices across Pakistan, managing IT infrastructure budgets while maintaining network reliability is a constant challenge. The Cisco Catalyst WS-C2960-24TC-L remains a highly sought-after, cost-effective Layer 2 access switch designed to deliver secure and reliable Fast Ethernet connectivity.

While newer networks demand full Gigabit edge ports, the 24TC-L model is perfectly positioned for legacy network environments, out-of-band management, and basic endpoint connectivity where high bandwidth is not a primary requirement.

Technical Specifications (WS-C2960-24TC-L)

Before integrating this model into your rack, network administrators must verify its hardware capabilities. Below are the verified technical specifications for the WS-C2960-24TC-L:

• Port Density: 24 x 10/100 Fast Ethernet ports.

• Uplink Interfaces: 2 x dual-purpose 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet / SFP ports.

• PoE Capability: Not Supported (Non-PoE switch).

• Feature Set: LAN Base Image (Advanced Layer 2 services).

• Forwarding Bandwidth: 16 Gbps.

• Switching Bandwidth: 32 Gbps.

• RAM / Flash Memory: 64 MB / 32 MB.

• Form Factor: 1 RU (Rack Unit), Fixed configuration.

Understanding the Dual-Purpose Uplink Ports

A key architectural feature of the WS-C2960-24TC-L is its two “dual-purpose” uplink ports. Network engineers often ask how these function when connecting to a core network or firewall.

Each dual-purpose port has one 10/100/1000 (RJ-45) copper port and one SFP-based Gigabit Ethernet port. Only one of these can be active at a time. If you insert an SFP transceiver module into the slot, it overrides the corresponding RJ-45 copper port. This provides flexibility, allowing IT teams to use standard Cat6 cabling for short-distance uplinks or fiber optic cables for connecting to remote distribution switches across a campus or large manufacturing facility.

Primary Deployment Scenarios in Pakistani IT Networks

Because this switch operates at Fast Ethernet (10/100) speeds for its access ports, we recommend it for specific, targeted deployments rather than high-throughput data applications:

1. Out-of-Band (OOB) Management Networks: Ideal for connecting the management interfaces (iDRAC, iLO, XClarity) of enterprise servers in a data center environment, isolating management traffic from production data.

2. Basic Office Connectivity: Reliable edge switching for standard workstations, network printers, and barcode scanners in retail or warehousing environments.

3. Non-PoE Surveillance & Voice: If you are using external PoE injectors or dedicated power supplies for IP cameras and VoIP phones, this switch handles the data transmission with robust QoS (Quality of Service) capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cisco WS-C2960-24TC-L a Gigabit switch?
No. The 24 access ports operate at Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) speeds. However, the 2 uplink ports are Gigabit capable (10/100/1000 Mbps) to ensure bottleneck-free traffic forwarding to the core network.

Does the WS-C2960-24TC-L support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
No. This specific “TC” model does not supply PoE. If your infrastructure requires PoE for access points or IP cameras, you must look at “PC” or “PS” models within the Catalyst series.

Can this switch perform IP routing?
The WS-C2960-24TC-L runs the LAN Base software image. It is strictly a Layer 2 switch and does not support Layer 3 IP routing. All inter-VLAN routing must be handled by an upstream router or Layer 3 core switch.

Procure Tested Cisco Hardware with Trade Orient Pakistan

Since 2008, Trade Orient Pakistan has been a trusted hardware partner for corporate IT departments, data centers, and system integrators across the country. Because the WS-C2960 series is a mature product line, procuring tested, high-quality refurbished hardware is critical to ensuring network stability.

Our Network Engineers thoroughly test all ports, verify internal fans, clear legacy configurations, and assess firmware health before deployment. We also back our hardware with SLA-based support and Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC).

Need a hardware assessment or looking to procure Cisco switches? Contact our Karachi-based engineering team today for current availability and B2B pricing.