1. Introduction
The Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch is designed to provide high network performance and reliability for small businesses. This 48-port 10/100 Fast Ethernet switch includes Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities and two combo Mini-GBIC uplink ports, offering essential features and easy-to-use management. It supports basic security, Quality of Service (QoS), energy-efficient technology, and IPv6, making it a robust solution for building a business-class network.
2. Key Features
- High Performance and Reliability: Ensures high availability and performance for critical business applications, minimizing downtime.
- Advanced Features: Offers advanced network traffic control with Quality of Service (QoS), Layer 3 static routing, and IPv6 support.
- Easy Setup and Management: Features intuitive browser-based tools, mass deployment capabilities, and consistent features across models for simplified setup and configuration.
- Energy Efficiency: Optimizes power usage to reduce energy costs without compromising performance, automatically powering down unused ports and adjusting power based on cable length.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): Provides 24 PoE-enabled ports with a total power budget of 180W, simplifying deployment of devices like wireless access points, IP phones, and IP video cameras.
3. Product Overview

Figure 1: Front view of the Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch.
The Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch features a robust design with a black metal casing. The front panel includes:
- 48 x 10/100 Fast Ethernet Ports: Arranged in two rows, these ports support data transfer at 10 or 100 Mbps. Each port has associated Link/Act (Link/Activity) and PoE (Power over Ethernet) status LEDs.
- 2 x Combo Gigabit Uplink Ports: Labeled G1A and G2V, these ports support Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and can be used with either RJ45 copper cables or Mini-GBIC (SFP) fiber transceivers for high-speed uplinks.
- System LED: Indicates the overall status of the switch.
- Reset Button: Used to reset the device to factory default settings.
The switch is designed for rack-mounting or desktop placement, providing flexibility for various small business environments.
4. Setup
Setting up your Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch is designed to be straightforward:
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the switch and its accessories from the packaging.
- Physical Placement: Place the switch on a stable surface or mount it in a standard equipment rack. Ensure adequate ventilation around the device.
- Power Connection: Connect the power cord to the switch and then to a grounded electrical outlet.
- Network Connections: Connect your network devices (computers, servers, IP phones, wireless access points, IP cameras) to the 10/100 Ethernet ports using standard Ethernet cables. For high-speed connections to your core network or other switches, use the Gigabit uplink ports.
- Initial Configuration: The switch can be configured using intuitive browser-based tools. Use Cisco FindIT to discover the switch's IP address on your network. Access the web-based management interface by entering the switch's IP address into a web browser. Follow the on-screen prompts for initial setup, including setting up basic network parameters, security, and QoS.
5. Operating Principles
The SF200-48P operates as a smart switch, providing advanced network capabilities beyond basic plug-and-play functionality:
- Data Forwarding: The switch intelligently forwards data packets between connected devices at 10/100 Mbps speeds, utilizing its 13.6 Gbps switching capacity for efficient traffic handling.
- Power over Ethernet (PoE): For devices connected to the PoE-enabled ports, the switch supplies both data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and reducing cabling requirements.
- Quality of Service (QoS): QoS features allow you to prioritize network traffic, ensuring that critical applications (such as voice and video) receive preferential bandwidth, leading to smoother performance.
- Security: Integrated network security features, including IEEE 802.1X port security, help control access to your network and protect against unauthorized users.
- IPv6 Support: The switch is ready for the next generation of internet protocols, supporting both IPv4 and IPv6 standards.
6. Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch, consider the following maintenance practices:
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check the Cisco website for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware current ensures you have the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the switch within its specified temperature and humidity ranges. Ensure proper airflow to prevent overheating.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the exterior of the switch with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Cable Management: Ensure all network cables are properly routed and secured to prevent accidental disconnections or damage.
- Energy Efficiency: The switch incorporates energy-efficient technology that optimizes power usage. No specific user maintenance is required for this feature, but ensuring the switch is properly connected and configured allows it to function effectively.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:
- Check Power and Connections: Verify that the power cord is securely connected and the System LED is illuminated. Ensure all Ethernet cables are properly seated in their respective ports and that the Link/Act LEDs are active.
- Restart the Switch: Power cycle the switch by disconnecting and reconnecting the power cord. This can resolve temporary software glitches.
- Verify IP Configuration: Ensure the switch has a valid IP address and that your management station is on the same network segment or has proper routing to access the switch's web interface.
- Consult Web-Based Management: The switch's intuitive web-based management interface provides diagnostic tools and status information that can help identify and resolve issues. Refer to the online help within the interface for detailed guidance.
- Reset to Factory Defaults: If all other troubleshooting fails, you may consider resetting the switch to its factory default settings using the Reset button. Warning: This will erase all custom configurations.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cisco |
| Model Number | SLM248PT-NA |
| Number of Ports | 48 x 10/100 Fast Ethernet, 2 x Combo Gigabit (RJ45/Mini-GBIC) |
| Interface Type | PoE (Power over Ethernet) |
| Data Transfer Rate | 100 Megabytes Per Second (Fast Ethernet) |
| Switching Capacity | 13.6 Gbps |
| Forwarding Performance (64-byte packet size) | 10.12 Mpps |
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 2 x 17 inches |
| Item Weight | 10 pounds |
| Case Material | Plastic |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 104 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| Included Components | Network Switch, Accessories |
| Compatible Devices | Camera |
| Date First Available | January 25, 2011 |
| UPC | 031112357591, 882658299193, 737069067292, 132017629971 |
9. Warranty and Support
The Cisco SF200-48P Smart Switch is backed by a Cisco Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty, providing peace of mind regarding the product's reliability and performance. This warranty ensures that the switch is tested for optimal uptime and easy integration with other Cisco networking and communications products.
For further information, support resources, and small business solutions, please visit the official Cisco Small Business website: www.cisco.com/go/smallbusiness.
Additionally, protection plans may be available for extended coverage:
- 4-Year Protection Plan
- Complete Protect: One plan covers all eligible past and future purchases (monthly billing)
10. Video Resources
Video 1: Cisco 200 Series Smart Switch Demo. This official video provides an overview and demonstration of the features and capabilities of the Cisco 200 Series Smart Switches, including the SF200-48P model.





