Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A: High-Performance Industrial Ethernet Switch for Modern Networks

The Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A is a state-of-the-art industrial Ethernet switch designed to provide reliable, high-performance networking in demanding industrial environments. As part of the Cisco Catalyst IE9300 series, this switch combines 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ downlink ports, 4 Gigabit SFP uplink ports, and a stackable architecture to deliver scalability, flexibility, and seamless connectivity for industrial automation, enterprise networks, and IoT deployments.

Engineered for resilience and efficiency, the IE-9320-24P4S-A is ideal for environments that require robust network performance, high uptime, and secure connectivity. Its combination of PoE+ capabilities, rugged design, and advanced security features makes it an optimal solution for industrial networks, transportation systems, smart factories, and energy infrastructure.

Overview of Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A

The Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A is part of Cisco’s industrial-grade IE9300 series, known for its reliability in harsh conditions. This switch provides high-speed data transfer, redundant connectivity, and stacking capabilities that simplify network management while ensuring network resilience.

With its robust hardware and intelligent software, the IE-9320-24P4S-A supports mission-critical applications, including industrial automation, smart grid networks, and enterprise IoT deployments. Its ability to integrate PoE+ devices directly into the network reduces cabling complexity and operational costs.

Key Specifications of Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A

• Port Configuration: 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ downlink ports and 4 Gigabit SFP uplink ports for fiber connections.
• PoE+ Power Support: Delivers up to 30W per port, sufficient for IP cameras, wireless access points, and IoT devices.
• Stacking Capabilities: Supports stackable configurations using Cisco StackPower technology for simplified management and redundancy.
• Switching Capacity: 128 Gbps switching bandwidth and 95.2 Mpps forwarding rate for high-speed industrial traffic.
• Industrial-Grade Design: IP30-rated enclosure, operating temperature range from -40°C to 75°C, suitable for industrial environments.
• High Availability Features: Redundant power supply support, rapid failover, and continuous uptime for critical network infrastructure.
• Security and Management: Advanced security protocols such as IEEE 802.1X, DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, MACsec, and integration with Cisco DNA Center.

Industrial Applications of Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A

The IE-9320-24P4S-A is designed for a wide range of industrial and enterprise applications where reliable, high-speed connectivity is crucial.

• Factory Automation: Supports connections to programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and industrial machinery for real-time monitoring and control.
• Smart Transportation Networks: Connects intelligent transportation systems (ITS), traffic cameras, signaling equipment, and monitoring sensors, ensuring smooth urban mobility.
• Energy and Utilities: Provides reliable networking for substations, renewable energy plants, and utility monitoring systems, helping manage power distribution efficiently.
• Enterprise IoT Deployments: Enables seamless integration of IoT devices, IP cameras, wireless access points, and sensors across distributed networks.
• Industrial Monitoring and Security: Supports PoE+ powered surveillance cameras and security devices for 24/7 monitoring and industrial site safety.

Advantages of Using Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A

The IE-9320-24P4S-A stands out in industrial networking for its unique combination of PoE+ flexibility, stackable architecture, and rugged design. Key advantages include:

• Simplified Network Expansion: Stackable design allows multiple switches to operate as a single logical unit, reducing complexity and improving scalability.
• Power over Ethernet Integration: Supports PoE+ to power devices directly over Ethernet cables, reducing the need for additional power infrastructure.
• Reliable Industrial Performance: Designed to operate under extreme temperature ranges and industrial conditions without sacrificing performance.
• High-Speed Connectivity: 4 Gigabit SFP uplinks provide high-speed fiber connectivity for long-distance industrial networks.
• Energy Efficiency: Optimized PoE+ and hardware design reduce energy consumption while delivering enterprise-grade performance.
• Enhanced Security: Advanced security protocols protect critical industrial and enterprise network data from unauthorized access or cyber threats.

Deployment Considerations for IE-9320-24P4S-A

Before deploying the IE-9320-24P4S-A, organizations should consider the following:

• Power Requirements: Ensure adequate power supply for full PoE+ support across all 24 ports.
• Environmental Conditions: Verify that the installation environment aligns with the industrial temperature range and IP30-rated protection.
• Network Architecture: Plan for stacking and fiber uplinks to optimize redundancy and high availability.
• Device Compatibility: Confirm that connected devices support Gigabit PoE+ and SFP fiber connections.

Maintenance and Management

The IE-9320-24P4S-A is designed to simplify network operations. Using Cisco DNA Center and IOS XE software, IT teams can monitor traffic, configure PoE+ settings, and manage security protocols centrally. Features such as automated software updates, diagnostics, and real-time alerts ensure minimal downtime and efficient troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the maximum PoE+ power provided by the IE-9320-24P4S-A?
   The switch delivers up to 30W per port across all 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports.
2. Can this switch be stacked with other Catalyst IE9300 switches?
   Yes, this model supports stackable configurations for scalability and redundancy.
3. What is the operating temperature range of this industrial switch?
   It operates from -40°C to 75°C, making it suitable for harsh industrial environments.
4. Does the switch support fiber uplinks?
   Yes, it has 4 Gigabit SFP uplink ports for fiber connections, enabling high-speed, long-distance networking.
5. Is the IE-9320-24P4S-A suitable for IoT and industrial automation?
   Absolutely. Its PoE+ support, rugged design, and high-speed connectivity make it ideal for IoT devices, industrial sensors, and automation systems.

Conclusion

The Cisco Catalyst IE-9320-24P4S-A is a robust, high-performance industrial Ethernet switch designed to meet the demands of modern industrial and enterprise networks. With 24 PoE+ downlink ports, 4 SFP uplinks, and stackable design, it delivers reliable connectivity, simplified network management, and industrial-grade resilience. Its combination of performance, security, and energy efficiency ensures that organizations can deploy scalable, high-speed networks capable of supporting IoT, industrial automation, and mission-critical applications.

For businesses looking to optimize their industrial networks while maintaining flexibility, security, and reliability, the switch represents a compelling solution.

For more information you can view the datasheets for CISCO IE9300 here.