1. Product Overview
The Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch is a next-generation, affordable smart switch designed to deliver powerful network performance, security, and reliability for small business networks. It offers a comprehensive suite of features to ensure a robust and efficient network infrastructure.
Key Features:
- SWITCH PORTS: 48-Port 10/100/1000 + 4 x 1GE SFP for versatile connectivity.
- SIMPLE MANAGEMENT: Intuitive Cisco Business Dashboard or on-box User Interface simplifies network operations and automates lifecycle management.
- FLEXIBLE DEPLOYMENT: Extensive portfolio provides ultimate flexibility from 8 to 48 ports and various Power over Ethernet (PoE+) combinations.
- ENHANCED SECURITY: Integrated with IEEE 802.1X port security to control network access, Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack prevention, and extensive Access Control Lists (ACLs) to protect against unauthorized users and network attacks.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Elegant and compact design, suitable for installation outside of traditional wiring closets, such as retail stores, open-plan offices, and classrooms.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT: Optimizes power usage to lower operational costs, compliant with IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet. Fanless in most models for quiet operation.
- PEACE OF MIND: Limited-lifetime warranty with return-to-factory replacement and one-year technical support.
2. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch
- Power cord
- Rack mount kit
- Quick start guide
3. Physical Description and Components
The Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch features a robust metal casing designed for durability and efficient heat dissipation. Below are images illustrating the switch's physical layout and key components.

Figure 3.1: Angled view of the Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch, showing the front panel with 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 4 SFP uplink ports, along with side ventilation.

Figure 3.2: Front panel of the Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch, highlighting the 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 4 SFP uplink ports, console port, and LED indicators for power and system status.

Figure 3.3: Various models of Cisco Business 250 Series Smart Switches stacked, illustrating the range of port configurations available within the series, including 8, 16, 24, and 48 Gigabit network ports with 1G or 10G fiber uplinks.
4. Setup and Installation
This section provides general guidelines for setting up your Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch. For detailed instructions, please refer to the included Quick Start Guide and the full User Guide PDF.
4.1 Rack Mounting
The switch comes with a rack mount kit for installation in a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Ensure proper ventilation and secure fastening of the switch within the rack.
4.2 Power Connection
- Connect the provided power cord to the power inlet on the rear panel of the switch.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
- Verify that the power LED on the front panel illuminates, indicating the switch is receiving power.
4.3 Network Connections
- Connect network devices (computers, servers, access points) to the 48 Gigabit Ethernet ports using standard Ethernet cables.
- Utilize the 4 SFP uplink ports for high-speed fiber connections to other network devices or the core network.
5. Operating the Switch
The Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch can be managed through its intuitive on-box User Interface (UI) or via the Cisco Business Dashboard for centralized network management.
5.1 Cisco Business Dashboard
The Cisco Business Dashboard provides a unified platform to manage your entire Cisco Business network. It offers features such as all-in-one discovery, provisioning, reporting, and lifecycle management, accessible from anywhere.

Figure 5.1: The Cisco Business Dashboard interface displayed on a laptop, showing various network management tools and analytics for monitoring and controlling Cisco Business devices.
This dashboard allows for zero-touch deployment, centralized management, issue resolution, and provides lifecycle and maintenance information for your network devices.
5.2 Smart Switch Capabilities
As a smart switch, the CBS250-48T-4G offers advanced features beyond basic connectivity, including VLAN support, Quality of Service (QoS), and advanced security protocols to optimize network performance and security.

Figure 5.2: A comparison table detailing the features and capabilities across Cisco Business 110 Series (Unmanaged), 250 Series (Smart), and 350 Series (Managed) Switches, highlighting differences in business size suitability, speed, number of ports, management layer, Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, and security features.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the optimal performance and longevity of your Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Cisco support website for the latest firmware updates. Keeping the firmware up-to-date ensures access to new features, performance improvements, and security patches.
- Cleaning: Keep the switch and its ventilation openings free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the switch operates within its specified temperature and humidity ranges. Avoid placing the switch near heat sources or in areas with excessive moisture.
- Cable Management: Organize network cables to prevent tangling and ensure proper airflow around the switch.
7. Troubleshooting
This section provides basic troubleshooting steps for common issues you might encounter with your Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch.
- No Power:
- Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the switch and a working electrical outlet.
- Check if the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
- Verify the power LED on the front panel is illuminated.
- No Network Connectivity:
- Check the Ethernet cables connected to the switch and the devices. Ensure they are properly seated and not damaged.
- Verify the link/activity LEDs on the switch ports are active for connected devices.
- Confirm that the connected devices are configured correctly (IP addresses, subnet masks).
- If using SFP ports, ensure the SFP modules are correctly inserted and compatible.
- Slow Network Performance:
- Check for network loops.
- Monitor network traffic using the Cisco Business Dashboard to identify bottlenecks.
- Ensure all devices are operating at their expected speeds (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet).
- Accessing Management Interface:
- Ensure your computer is on the same network segment as the switch.
- Verify the IP address of the switch and your computer.
- Try clearing your browser's cache or using a different browser.
If issues persist, consult the full User Guide PDF or contact Cisco technical support.
8. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Switch Type | Smart Switch |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 17.3" x 10.2" x 1.7" (43.94 cm x 25.91 cm x 4.32 cm) |
| Item Weight | 12.32 pounds (5.6 Kilograms) |
| Platform | Not Machine Specific |
| Case Material | Metal |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 1440 Watts |
| Interface Type | Ethernet (GE), SFP |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1000 Megabits Per Second (1 Gbps) |
| Manufacturer | CISCO |
| UPC | 889728295536 |
| Item Model Number | CBS250-48T-4G |
| Number of Ports | 48 (GE) + 4 (SFP) |
| Color | White |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop (and other network devices) |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1 Limited-Lifetime Warranty
The Cisco Business CBS250-48T-4G Smart Switch comes with a limited-lifetime warranty. This warranty typically includes return-to-factory replacement for hardware defects. Please refer to Cisco's official warranty documentation for full terms and conditions.
9.2 Technical Support
One year of technical support is included with your purchase. For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or further inquiries, please contact Cisco support through their official channels. Ensure you have your product model number and serial number ready when contacting support.
9.3 Additional Resources
For a more detailed guide and additional information, you can download the official Instructions for Use (IFU) PDF document:





