Navigating network switch specifications can be challenging, especially when assessing existing infrastructure or planning a targeted upgrade. If you are an SMB IT manager or procurement decision-maker, understanding your current equipment—such as the Cisco Catalyst 3560 series—is critical before investing in new hardware or rearchitecting your network.
This FAQ will clarify the Catalyst 3560 speed, port rates, and performance specifications to help you determine whether this popular series aligns with your network needs.
Overview of Cisco Catalyst 3560 Series
The Cisco Catalyst 3560 series is a line of fixed-configuration, enterprise-class switches designed to connect devices like workstations, Cisco Wireless Access Points, IP phones, servers, routers, and other switches within your network. Well-suited for small enterprise wiring closets or branch offices, the Catalyst 3560 offers Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, advanced QoS, rate limiting, and access control features.
Note: This article covers the original Catalyst 3560 series, distinct from the newer Catalyst 3560-CX switches with Multigigabit and 10G capabilities.
Catalyst 3560 Port Speed and Gigabit Support
When evaluating Catalyst 3560 speed, consider the following categories:
Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) Models
Models like the Catalyst 3560-24PS and 3560-48PS offer 24 or 48 Fast Ethernet ports with PoE. Smaller models, such as the 3560-8PC and 3560-12PC-S, feature 8 or 12 Fast Ethernet PoE ports for compact deployments.
Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) Models
For those asking, "Does the 3560 support gigabit?" — the answer is yes. Models such as the Catalyst 3560G-24PS, 3560G-24TS, 3560G-48PS, and 3560G-48TS provide 24 or 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports with additional SFP module slots for fiber uplinks.
Speed and Duplex Configuration
10/100 Ports: Support 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps at half or full duplex.
10/100/1000 Ports: Support 10/100 Mbps at half/full duplex, and 1000 Mbps at full duplex only.
By default, speed and duplex autonegotiation are enabled, ensuring optimal connectivity and reducing the risk of duplex mismatches.
Models include SFP slots for fiber connectivity or additional 1000BASE-T copper links, supporting modules like 1000BASE-SX, 1000BASE-LX, and 1000BASE-T.
Auto-MDIX is supported on relevant models, allowing the use of straight-through or crossover cables without manual intervention.
Cisco Catalyst 3560 Speed and PoE Specs Comparison Table
Catalyst 3560 Performance and Bandwidth
While the exact forwarding rates (in Mpps) vary, the Catalyst 3560 bandwidth is engineered to match the maximum throughput of its ports:
Per-Port Speed: Each copper port delivers dedicated Fast Ethernet (10/100) or Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000) bandwidth to connected devices.
PoE Capability: Models like the 3560-24PS and 3560G-48PS can deliver up to 15.4W per port, supporting IP phones, wireless APs, and other PoE devices, with total power budgets up to 370W depending on the model.
Intelligent Services: Advanced QoS and security features help prioritize business-critical applications.
Monitoring and Troubleshooting: LEDs and CLI commands (e.g., show interfaces) allow you to verify port speed, duplex, and link status, helping identify and resolve issues such as duplex mismatches or cabling faults.
Console Port Baud Rate: For management access, the Cisco Catalyst 3560 console port typically uses a default baud rate of 9600 bps, 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit (9600 8N1).
Is the Cisco Catalyst 3560 a Layer 3 Switch?
Yes, the Cisco Catalyst 3560 is a Layer 3 switch, supporting advanced routing capabilities in addition to Layer 2 switching. It allows for:
Static Routing
Routing Information Protocol (RIP)
Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) (in select software images)
These Layer 3 features enable the Catalyst 3560 to perform inter-VLAN routing and manage routing tables, making it a versatile choice for SMB networks that require basic Layer 3 functionality alongside reliable Layer 2 switching.
Is the Cisco Catalyst 3560 Still a Good Fit for Your Network?
The Catalyst 3560 speed capabilities and reliability make it a solid choice for SMBs needing Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity in access layer deployments. It effectively supports IP telephony, wireless access points, and desktop connectivity with enterprise-grade QoS and PoE features.
Or future-proof infrastructure with 2.5G, 5G, or 10G speeds,
you may want to consider upgrading to more advanced switches such as the Cisco Catalyst 3560X Switches or Multigigabit-ready models like the 3560-CX series.
Conclusion
Understanding the Catalyst 3560 speed and performance helps ensure your network investment aligns with your operational needs. The Cisco Catalyst 3560 series delivers reliable Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity with PoE support and advanced services, making it a dependable choice for many SMB networks.
Before deciding to purchase or upgrade, evaluate your current and future bandwidth requirements. If your infrastructure primarily operates within the 10/100/1000 Mbps range, the Catalyst 3560 remains a practical solution. However, if you anticipate growing demands for higher speeds and next-generation wireless, consider exploring Cisco Catalyst 3560 Series Switches or higher-speed models to keep your network agile and scalable.
