Cisco 2960s Switch replacement

Woody393 · ‎02-02-2015

Greetings,

Dear Experts,

We are using the Cisco 2960s Switches in our network. We have two failed switches and asked for replacement from our supplier. They informed that the 2960s model is approaching End Of Service (EOS) and the replacement of that model are as below:

1- WS-C2960X-24TS-L

Catalyst 2960-X 24 GigE, 4 x 1G SFP, LAN Base

2-WS-C2960S-24TS-L

Catalyst 2960S 24 GigE, 4 x SFP LAN Base

What is the best practice to make my decision of which to select? will it make difference from the configuration perspective? is there a possibility for conflict with the existing 2960s Switches?

Many thanks in advance for your kind assistance.

Thanks and Regards

Leo Laohoo · ‎02-02-2015

We have two failed switches and asked for replacement from our supplier.

Time for you to talk to your supplier. Cisco has announced the EoS/EoL for the 2960S back in November 2014 (End-of-Sale and End-of-Life Announcement for the Cisco Catalyst 2960-S Series and 2960-SF Series Switches). However, this only means the date of November 2014 is just a date of announcement. The final date of sale for the 2960S is November 2015.

I think your supplier either is getting confused (didn't read the announcement properly or didn't know) or is just looking for ways to make more money.

is there a possibility for conflict with the existing 2960s Switches?

You can form a stack of 2960S and 2960X. Just know the limitations, and they are:

1. The entire stack must have the same IOS versions;

2. The stack speed will drop from 20 Gbps (2960X) to 10 Gbps because 2960S has been set to run only at this speed; and

3. You cannot have five or more in a stack if you have a 2960S as a member of the stack.

Woody393 · ‎02-04-2015

Dear Leo,

Thank you indeed for your prompt response. I guess what you mentioned is correct about our supplier. He also got me confused on that matter.

Anyways, since he can only supply the direct replacement (2960X) we'll go for it. Your technical explanation is really helpful.

Once again, many thanks for your support.

Best Regards.