What is the difference between the C3850-48T models on Cisco Software Download page?

[rweir0001]

I have a Cisco WS-C3850-48T switch running 03.03.03SE software. I'm thinking about upgrading this software but am a little confused by how Cisco has their software download page set up. For the 3850 Series of switches at https://software.cisco.com/download/navigator.html I have three hardware choices when it comes to C3850-48T:

Catalyst 3850-48T-E Switch
Catalyst 3850-48T-L Switch
Catalyst 3850-48T-S Switch.

I don't know what the difference is between an "E Switch" and an "L Switch" or an "S Switch". I can't find those designations anywhere on my switch. The latest IOS-XE version for all three of them looks like it is the same two files:

CAT3850/3650 UNIVERSAL
cat3k_caa-universalk9.SPA.03.06.04.E.152-2.E4.bin

CAT3850/3650 UNIVERSAL W/O DTLS
cat3k_caa-universalk9ldpe.SPA.03.06.04.E.152-2.E4.bin

Can anyone please explain what the differences are between those switches? Since the upgrade files all look to be the same can I download anyone of them? Also, is there any benefit to downloading the file that is titled "CAT3850/3650 UNIVERSAL W/O DTLS"?

[Joseph W. Doherty · Accepted solution]

Disclaimer

The Author of this posting offers the information contained within this posting without consideration and with the reader's understanding that there's no implied or expressed suitability or fitness for any purpose. Information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as rendering professional advice of any kind. Usage of this posting's information is solely at reader's own risk.

Liability Disclaimer

In no event shall Author be liable for any damages wha2tsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of use, data or profit) arising out of the use or inability to use the posting's information even if Author has been advised of the possibility of such damage.

Posting

Those suffixes indicate how the 3850 was initially licensed.  Basically, Cisco lists all the switch variants, but often many use exactly the same IOS image (especially with later devices that provide an universal image).

[rweir0001]

Thanks, Joseph. Any idea what the benefit to downloading the file that is titled "CAT3850/3650 UNIVERSAL W/O DTLS" would be?

[InayathUlla Sharieff · Accepted solution]

Hey,
If the switch will be installed in Russia, you need LDPE. If not, go with the non-LDPE.

Depends on where you are at, if you are somewhere that would require the LDPE image then go with that.

Othewise go with CAT3850 UNIVERSAL...

hope this clarifies your doubt.

HTH

Regards

Inayath

[rweir0001]

Thanks, InayathUlla!