Cisco Catalyst 9600 Series: Revolutionizing Campus Core Networks
Created: 2025-04-29 | Last Updated: 2025-04-29
As enterprise networks scale to accommodate more users, devices, and applications, having a powerful, secure, and flexible core switch becomes non-negotiable. Enter the Cisco Catalyst 9600 Series, Cisco’s flagship core switch built for campus networks of the future.
What is the Cisco Catalyst 9600 Series?
The Catalyst 9600 Series is designed to be the high-availability, high-throughput backbone of any enterprise LAN. It builds upon Cisco’s legacy of modular switching platforms, offering advanced security, comprehensive automation, and full-stack programmability.
Key Features of the Cisco Catalyst 9600 Series
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Modular Design for Future Growth
Scale seamlessly with modular chassis and line cards supporting up to 25.6 Tbps system bandwidth. -
High Availability
Redundant power supplies and supervisor engines ensure zero downtime. -
Full Stack Programmability
Powered by Cisco IOS XE, it supports Python, NETCONF, RESTCONF, and streaming telemetry. -
Advanced Security
Integrated with TrustSec, MACsec encryption, and segmentation via SD-Access. -
Unified Management
Fully integrated with Cisco Catalyst Center (formerly DNA Center) for zero-touch provisioning, analytics, and AI-driven automation.
Use Cases
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Campus Core Switch — Ideal for large universities, enterprise HQs, and smart campuses.
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Aggregation Layer — Between access switches and distribution layers.
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Hybrid Cloud Interconnect — Securely bridge on-prem to cloud infrastructure.
Cisco Catalyst 9600 vs Cisco Nexus
| Feature | Catalyst 9600 | Nexus 9000 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Campus Core | Data Center |
| OS | IOS XE | NX-OS |
| Programmability | Full Stack | Full Stack |
| SD-Access Support | Yes | No |
| Typical Use | LAN Core / WAN Edge | Spine/Leaf Fabric |
Available Models
Each supports different slot configurations, with flexible uplink options including 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, and 100G.
Expert Insights
“Catalyst 9600 sets the standard for enterprise core switching. With built-in security and automation, it’s no longer just about speed—it's about agility and trust.”
— David Goeckeler, Former EVP & GM at Cisco Networking
Final Thoughts
The Cisco Catalyst 9600 Series isn’t just a switch — it’s a strategic investment for scalable, secure, and automated enterprise networking. Whether you're upgrading legacy hardware or building a new infrastructure from scratch, this platform should be at the heart of your deployment.