C9500-12Q-A Overview
The Cisco Catalyst 9500-12Q-A (C9500-12Q-A) is a high-performance fixed enterprise access and aggregation switch. With 12 QSFP+ 40G ports, it provides high-density 40G in a compact 1RU form factor.
Powered by the UADP 2.0 ASIC, the Cisco C9500-12Q-A delivers up to 960 Gbps switching capacity and 720 Mpps forwarding performance. The UADP 2.0 provides a programmable pipeline with microengine capabilities for L2/L3 features.
With capabilities like MACsec encryption and container hosting, the C9500-12Q-A strengthens security and customization for modern enterprise access and aggregation deployments. It ships with the Cisco IOS XE software, Smart Licensing, and the Network Advantage license.
Quick Specifications
Specification | Description |
---|---|
Switching Capacity | Up to 960 Gbps |
Forwarding Rate | Up to 720 Mpps |
Ports | 12x40G QSFP+ |
ASIC | Cisco UADP 2.0 |
Routing Tables | Up to 64K routes |
MAC Addresses | Up to 64K |
Buffers | 18MB per ASIC |
Encryption | MACsec |
Software | Cisco IOS XE |
License | Network Advantage |
Power Supply | 950W AC/DC |
Fans | 5 hot-swappable |
Dimensions | 1RU |
Weight | 24 lbs fully loaded |
C9500-12Q-A Details and Highlights
- Powered by programmable Cisco UADP 2.0 ASIC, enabling up to 960 Gbps switching capacity and 720 Mpps forwarding
- 12 QSFP+ 40G ports, providing high-density 40G in a compact 1RU form factor
- MACsec 128-bit encryption for securing connectivity
- Extensive L2 and L3 feature support including VXLAN and EVPN
- Container hosting on dual-core CPU complex
- Redundant hot-swappable power supplies and fans
- Ships with Cisco IOS XE software, Smart Licensing, and Network Advantage license
Supported Products
Part Number | Description |
---|---|
C9500-12Q-A | 12-port 40G, Network Advantage |
PWR-C4-950WAC-R | 950W AC power supply |
PWR-C4-950WAC-R/2 | 950W AC power supply, redundant |
PWR-C4-950WDC-R | 950W DC power supply |
PWR-C4-950WDC-R/2 | 950W DC power supply, redundant |
FAN-T4-R | Fan unit, front-to-back airflow |
Comparison to Similar Models
Model | C9500-12Q-A | C9500X-28C8D-E | C9500-32QC-E |
---|---|---|---|
40G Ports | 12 | – | 32 |
100G Ports | – | 28 | – |
ASIC | UADP 2.0 | Q200 | UADP 3.0 |
Switching Capacity | 960 Gbps | 12 Tbps | 3.2 Tbps |
Forwarding Rate | 720 Mpps | 8 Bpps | 1 Bpps |
Power Supply | 950W AC/DC | 1500W AC/DC | 650W AC/DC |
Dimensions | 1RU | 1RU | 1RU |
Full Specifications
Specification | Description |
---|---|
Switching capacity | Up to 960 Gbps |
Forwarding rate | Up to 720 Mpps |
Router MAC entries | Up to 64K |
IPv4/IPv6 routes | Up to 64K indirect routes |
Packet buffer | 18MB per ASIC |
RAM | 16 GB |
SSD storage | 120GB USB3.0 optional |
CPU | Dual-core x86 |
Ports | 12x40G QSFP+ |
Power supply | 950W AC/DC hot-swappable redundant |
Fans | 5 hot-swappable N+1 |
Dimensions | 1.73 x 17.5 x 18.0 in (1RU) |
Weight | 24 lbs fully loaded |
Operating temperature | 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C) |
Licensing | Smart Licensing, Network Advantage |
Software | Cisco IOS XE |
Key Features and Benefits
- High-density 12x40G ports in a compact 1RU form factor
- Programmable Cisco UADP 2.0 ASIC delivering up to 960 Gbps capacity
- MACsec 128-bit encryption for securing connectivity
- Extensive L2 and L3 feature support including VXLAN and EVPN
- Container hosting for third-party and custom applications
- Redundant hot-swappable power supplies and fans
- Cisco IOS XE operating system with smart licensing
- Network Advantage license enabled out of the box
Supported Modules and Accessories
- Network modules – Not applicable
- SSD storage – 120GB USB3.0 optional
- Power supplies – 950W AC/DC, redundant capable
- Fan units – 5 hot-swappable, front-to-back airflow
- Rack mount kits – 19″/23″ rack mounting options available
C9500-12Q-A Licensing
The C9500-12Q-A comes with the Network Advantage license. Additional licenses like Network Advantage or Cisco DNA Advantage can be purchased separately. Smart Licensing is used to manage licenses.
Installation and Deployment
Refer to the Cisco Catalyst 9500 Series switch hardware installation guide for detailed instructions on installing and deploying the switches and accessories.
Compliance and Safety
The switch complies with various international standards including UL 60950-1, CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 60950-1, EN 60950-1, IEC 60950-1 for safety requirements.
Warranty and Support
The C9500-12Q-A comes with an Enhanced Limited Lifetime Warranty (E-LLW) that includes next business day delivery of replacement hardware. It also includes 90 days of 8×5 Cisco TAC support.
C9500-12Q-A End of Life Policy
Hardware warranty is limited to 5 years from the announcement of discontinuance per Cisco’s end of life policy. More details at Cisco EOL Policy
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