Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-L Switch – Features, Specs & Performance

By imrank21 Blog WS-C3650-8X24PD-L

In today’s fast-paced digital infrastructure, businesses need scalable and secure network switches that deliver high performance without compromise. The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-L switch is engineered precisely for that purpose. Designed for medium to large enterprises, this model combines robust data handling, intelligent software-defined features, and reliable Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities to streamline your network operations.

Whether you’re managing corporate networks, data centers, or campus environments, the WS-C3650-8X24PD-L provides the flexibility and control needed to optimize performance across all connected devices.

Overview of the Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-L

The WS-C3650-8X24PD-L is part of Cisco’s trusted Catalyst 3650 Series, a family of switches that unify wired and wireless access on a single platform. It supports advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 features, making it ideal for enterprise networks seeking efficiency, scalability, and security.

Key Highlights

Model: WS-C3650-8X24PD-L
Series: Cisco Catalyst 3650
Form Factor: Stackable Layer 3 switch
Total Ports: 24 Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ ports
Uplink Support: 8 x 10G SFP+ uplink ports
Power Supply: Dual redundant modular power supply option
Stacking Bandwidth: 160 Gbps
Software: LAN Base image

The WS-C3650-8X24PD-L delivers powerful enterprise switching and intelligent network management with Cisco IOS XE software, offering exceptional agility and programmability.

Performance & Technical Specifications

Switching Capacity: 160 Gbps
Forwarding Rate: 68.4 Mpps
Stacking Bandwidth: 160 Gbps
Ports: 24 × 10/100/1000 Ethernet PoE+ ports
Uplinks: 8 × 10G SFP+
Maximum Power Supply: 715W AC
Available PoE Power: 390W
DRAM: 4 GB
Flash Memory: 2 GB
Dimensions (HxWxD): 4.45 × 44.5 × 45.0 cm
Weight: 7.9 kg

This switch is capable of handling intensive workloads with minimal latency, making it an excellent choice for businesses with demanding network environments.

Features and Benefits

1. Unified Access and Intelligent Networking

The WS-C3650-8X24PD-L allows IT administrators to manage both wired and wireless networks seamlessly through a single switch. This integration simplifies configuration and monitoring, reducing network complexity.

2. Enhanced Security

Cisco integrates advanced security features such as:

TrustSec for identity-based access control
MACsec encryption for data protection
Secure Boot and image signing for hardware integrity

These features ensure that enterprise networks remain protected from evolving cyber threats.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

Stack up to nine switches to increase capacity as your organization grows. The switch supports Cisco StackWise-160 technology, ensuring high availability and easy scalability.

4. PoE+ Powering Capability

With 24 PoE+ ports, it powers IP phones, cameras, and access points directly, eliminating the need for separate power supplies — a major advantage for modern smart offices.

5. Cisco IOS XE Software

The switch runs on Cisco’s IOS XE, a modular operating system that supports programmability and automation through REST APIs and model-driven telemetry.

This helps enterprises move toward a software-defined networking (SDN) environment.

Comparison with Similar Cisco Models

WS-C3650-8X24PD-L: 24 GE ports, 8 × 10G SFP+ uplinks, 390W PoE power, 160 Gbps stacking bandwidth, LAN Base software.
WS-C3650-24PD-L: 24 GE ports, 4 × 1G SFP uplinks, 390W PoE power, 160 Gbps stacking bandwidth, LAN Base software.
WS-C3850-24P-L: 24 GE ports, 4 × 1G/10G uplinks, 435W PoE power, 480 Gbps stacking bandwidth, LAN Base software.
C9200L-24P-4G-E: 24 GE ports, 4 × 1G uplinks, 370W PoE power, 160 Gbps stacking bandwidth, Network Essentials software.

Key Takeaway:
The WS-C3650-8X24PD-L stands out for its 8 × 10G SFP+ uplinks and robust performance, offering a balance of speed, scalability, and security suitable for enterprise-grade environments.

Use Cases of WS-C3650-8X24PD-L

Corporate Networks: Unified access for wired and wireless devices.
Educational Institutions: High-performance connectivity for classrooms and labs.
Healthcare: Reliable networking for digital patient management systems.
Retail Chains: Seamless POS integration and IoT connectivity.
Data Centers: Efficient aggregation and distribution layer switching.

Installation and Management Tips

Plan Power Allocation: Optimize PoE budgets to ensure efficient power distribution across devices.
Use Cisco DNA Center: For centralized network automation and monitoring.
Enable StackWise: Configure switch stacking to improve redundancy and manageability.
Regular Firmware Updates: Keep the Cisco IOS XE software updated for the latest security enhancements.

Expert Insights

Cisco’s 3650 series continues to be one of the most reliable options in enterprise switching. Networking experts often highlight the WS-C3650-8X24PD-L for its balance between performance, security, and scalability — offering enterprise-grade reliability at a mid-range price point.

According to Cisco’s official documentation and industry reviews, this switch stands out for its modular uplink options and future-ready architecture, ensuring longevity in evolving IT ecosystems.

FAQs:

Q1. What is the maximum PoE power available on the WS-C3650-8X24PD-L?

The switch provides 390W of available PoE power, sufficient for powering multiple IP-based devices simultaneously.

Q2. Can this switch be stacked with other Cisco 3650 models?

Yes, it supports Cisco StackWise-160 technology, allowing stacking of up to nine switches for greater scalability and redundancy.

Q3. Which software image does it run?

The WS-C3650-8X24PD-L runs on the Cisco LAN Base image, supporting essential Layer 2 and limited Layer 3 functions.

Q4. Is the switch compatible with Cisco DNA Center?

Yes. It integrates with Cisco DNA Center, enabling centralized management, automation, and advanced analytics.

Conclusion

The Cisco WS-C3650-8X24PD-L switch is a powerful and secure solution for organizations seeking to modernize their network infrastructure. With robust PoE+ capabilities, advanced Layer 3 functionality, and support for high-speed 10G uplinks, it ensures long-term scalability and seamless connectivity.

Whether you’re upgrading an existing infrastructure or deploying a new one, the WS-C3650-8X24PD-L delivers the performance, reliability, and security required for enterprise-grade networks.

Ready to enhance your network with Cisco’s enterprise-class switches?
Explore more at GNTME’s Cisco Product Catalog or check related models like C9200L-24P-4X-A and C1000-8P-2G-L.